CPD in the Military sector

Overview of the Military Sector

In a dynamic and uncertain world, with increasing global competition, areas of political unrest and changes driven by technology, ensuring successful national security through sustainable investment, innovation and a highly-skilled trained workforce becomes ever more vital. The UK Defence sector is a world-class leader within the global industry, providing essential services, support and technologies to our Armed Forces around the world, contributing significantly to the support of international collaboration and trade opportunities.

The UK military and defence sector employs over 300,000 individuals spread over 9,000 companies. According to the Defence Growth Partnership (2014), which is a strategic partnership between the Government and the Defence Industry, well over 100,000 people are working directly in the industry, in high value, high-tech jobs, with a turnover of more than £22 billion a year.

The UK is the 2nd largest defence exporter in the world, with sales over £8 billion and a market share of 20%, second only to the US. 10% of the total UK manufacturing industry is estimated to be made up by defence sector contracts, with the UK biggest customer being the British Government itself.

CPD in the Military Sector

Major General N H Eeles CBE, Chairman of the Royal Artillery Centre for Personal Development states “Personal Development is for everyone; it is not limited by rank, location or trade.”

The Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) requires members to maintain and develop their professional competence and knowledge. The requirement is obligatory, with guidelines recommending what should be done. Continuing Professional Development is measured specifically in hours, and recommendations are made for the amount that a specific type of CPD activity can count towards the overall requirement. CPD activities should be recorded and validated with supporting evidence of training completed, using a CPD certificates and a personal record form.