Military spouse, Aviva Franco, is the Academy Qualifications and Quality Manager at Centrica, where she helps develop skills and maintain high standards at British Gas Academies. Aviva will be sharing her story at our Pathways into Energy webinar event later this month. Her story below shows the opportunities in the energy sector for the Armed Forces community and the advantages the community can offer to civilian employers.
Building skills that power the country
Aviva manages quality and compliance and creates learning programmes for Centrica’s training academies. She works closely with awarding bodies, industry partners, and teams within the company to make sure training meets all regulations and standards.
“My role is really about ensuring that learning provision is high-quality and future‑focused. Strong learning pathways don’t just support individuals – they strengthen organisations and contribute to the resilience of the wider economy.”
Alongside her main job, Aviva is also Co-Chair of the Centrica Forces Network. She helps lead projects that support veterans, reservists, and military families at Centrica. This involvement adds to both her personal and professional impact.
A strong connection to the Armed Forces community
Aviva is married to Army veteran Daniel, who served in the Army Air Corps for 12 years before leaving due to injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder. Her family also has a strong tradition of service; her grandfather spent 40 years in the British Army.
Being part of the Armed Forces community has influenced Aviva’s skills. “Military life teaches adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving. Those experiences shape how I handle change, pressure, and people – and impact my work.”
Why energy, and why Centrica?
Aviva chose to work in energy because it is essential for daily life and for the country’s strength. “People rely on energy, often without thinking, but a skilled workforce makes it possible. Maintaining and evolving those skills is crucial.”
Although Aviva did not join Centrica through an official Armed Forces employment programme, she soon became involved with the company’s Armed Forces Network and found a friendly, supportive group. Over time, she took on a leadership role, helping others move into civilian careers.
Aviva’s advice for anyone considering a career in energy is simple: stay open to learning and change. “It’s a fast-moving sector, influenced by technology, regulation, and the energy transition. Adaptability, resilience, and pride in doing things properly really matter.”
Aviva sees a lot of opportunities in the sector. “There are many roles and transferrable skills. You can build a long-term career and make a real impact.”
Join us at Pathways into Energy
This event is open to employers, industry experts, and members of the Armed Forces community who are interested in energy careers. If you are considering your next step or want to learn more, join us for insight, inspiration, and practical advice. Register today!
If you can’t make it this time, you can still stay updated. Sign up for our newsletter to hear about future events and ways to get involved.
Our ‘Pathways into…’ events are part of Op ASCEND, a government‑led programme delivered through the Office for Veterans’ Affairs and funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust. Through these events, the Forces Employment Charity supports Service leavers, veterans, reservists, and their families into sustainable and rewarding civilian careers across the UK.
