Insider profil
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Top Insider Advice
One of the biggest pieces of advice I can give somebody who has an interest in joining the military is to simply be yourself. One of key values of the military is integrity, so as long as you're honest with yourself and being true to who you are, you can't go too wrong. Those who try to be somebody they're not always get found out, and false appearances can only be kept up for so long. I would also say work hard. If you continue to push yourself and push what you think are your limitations, you'll find yourself pleasantly surprised. Those who work hard in the military are very often rewarded and go on to have the more fulfilling, exciting career with an abundance of opportunities. Those who shy away from work or are lazy will again get found out very quickly and have less opportunities available.
Career path
664 SQN AAC Groundcrew Specialist
British Army
From 10/2018 to 07/2021Corps Engagement Team Junior
British Army
From 07/2021 to 04/2023Trainee Recruit
British Army
From 10/2017 to 10/2018Company
What do you like about your job and the company?
The AAC CET is a very diverse role. We can spend hours delivering information and presentations to people who have zero interest in the military. However, when you have an audience member who is excited and engaged, or perhaps they're asking you more questions about the role, then it's very rewarding knowing you have helped them to feel this way. Equally, it's just as important to positively impact on people's perception of the army, ensuring they understand the dynamic and varied role the army play in today's society. We had an event recently where one female came away telling me I had made a difference to her perspective of the Army, as well as an increased motivation to join up as a pilot; it's good to know we've had a positive effect on someone's future, especially if before they weren't motivated or inspired. Similarly, when we take our Gazelle aircraft to events, we offer people the opportunity to sit in the cockpit and get a photo taken with a pilot helmet. The joy on their face (especially the younger generation) is gratifying and the interaction is brilliant. You quite often get unique questions from the little ones, such as 'Can we fly this to the moon?'!! This in turn puts a smile on our face.
Greatest achievements
Being asked what's my proudest achievement throughout my military career, is probably one of the more difficult questions I will encounter. There are so many to choose from, as this is a job which serves with great pride on a daily basis. Stepping out onto the Tottenham Stadium pitch in front of 60,000 people whilst taking part in a Remembrance Service is certainly one of my proudest moments. Similarly, achieving best student in training was a very proud albeit surprising moment, given the amount of hard work I had put in to not only be the best soldier I could be, but to also improve and facilitate those around me. However, being selected for the Army Women's football team was probably my proudest moment to date. One of the key reasons for joining the military was to play football, so to be offered the opportunity to play for the Army was fantastic. It was the culmination of hard work, dedication and continually trying to improve my game.
Frank R
Top Insider Advice
It's always better to be at the bottom of a ladder you wan't to climb, than half way up one you don't. Okay... I promise I won't do anymore cheesy quotes from now on, but it really is true. I've always thought of this, as you can see from the various jobs I've had, I've always been looking for that one job that ticks every box for things you want out of a career. Don't be persuaded into doing a job you're not set on, just because it may result you getting your start date early. Or if you need a qualification for a particular job. Get that qualification! If it means you getting that career/job role that you really want, then go for it. Don't settle for second best.
Erin R
Combat Medical Technician
Top Insider Advice
Don't let yourself not take an opportunity because you are scared of failing. You will never know your true potential unless you give something a go.
Gary T
Recruiting and Mentoring Support Officer
Top Insider Advice
If you've taken the time to get this far keep going. The Army life is one full of challenges for the better you. Life will be though at times as you find you feet and get to understand the way things are done. You'll be with and supported by like minded people alll with the same drive to be the best they can.