Colas Rail UK Awarded Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award

*Pictured: Colas Rail UK’s Phil Brown (second from left) and Chris Pugh (second from right) being presented with the AFC Silver Award in 2024*

We are delighted to share that Colas Rail UK has been awarded the Gold Award, the highest form of recognition from the Armed Forces Covenant’s (AFC) Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS).

With unparalleled progress in the UK rail industry, we achieved this accolade in the space of only three years, winning the Silver Award in 2024 and Bronze Award in 2023 as affirmation of our commitment to supporting and welcoming Armed Forces communities into our workforce and the rail industry.

As of today, 123 proud veterans bring their skills and experience to our workforce—with an impressive 97 of them embedded in our Rail Services business unit. That’s nearly 13% of the team driving our operations forward every day.

Since forging a partnership with the Forces Transition Group in 2023, we’ve welcomed 9 new veterans into a diverse mix of roles—from Driver Operators and Fitters to Trainer Assessors and Senior Buyers. Their impact continues to shape our future.

Speaking on the success of the award, Colas Rail UK CEO, Jean-Pierre Bertrand said “we welcome people from all walks of life into the rail industry, and I’m delighted that we can provide the armed forces community the opportunity to not only join but thrive in our industry.”

Jean-Pierre’s comments are echoed by QHSE Trainer and military veteran, Chris Pugh whosaid “In just three short years, Colas Rail has made unprecedented progress winning this award in such a short space of time with the rail industry and speaks volumes about our commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to the Rail Services team for their support, including Phil Brown for allowing me the freedom and time to support our Armed Forces.

“A special thanks goes to Adi Harper, who has exemplified the essence of a successful transition from the army since joining Colas Rail. His tireless efforts have played a crucial role in helping us achieve this significant milestone.”

First published: 13th August 2025

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