Carl S.

From Driver to Operator to Gunner to Regimental Signals Instructor.

One of my most prominent career moves was attending my Javelin Operators course. This moved me from the drivers seat to be able to be used more effectively in a fighting environment, after completing this course I utilised the equipment on many exercises around the world from Salisbury plain in England to the Canadian Prairies. This lead to me being able to make more command decisions and gain experience in my new role! After engaging myself fully into the role I realised I had an affinity for Bowman communications systems and took the opportunity to do my Advanced Signals course and later moved to a Squadron Headquarters Troop where I maintained/fixed and made sure communications were up and running in hectic environments worldwide. After attaining the experience and my Potential Non Commissioned Officer Cadre. I promoted to L/Cpl. My personal latest achievements tie in with the previously mentioned. Attending my Regimental Signals Instructor course and being able to bring on the next generation of soldiers. While doing this, playing a key role in setting up communications on exercises for the Regiment and assisting other attached units. A challenging yet rewarding time was attending my Junior Command Course and learning how to lead men and women in a combat environment. This course was physically and mentally challenging but the sense of reward after passing was 100% worth it.

I'm currently a Careers Advisor for the future soldiers.

I work at an Army Careers Centre with a small team bringing candidates through the process from the day they start their application. Helping those who wish to join the army and offering advice where needed through the experience I have gained in my own career. I do this by attending school fairs, careers fair, online events etc. all of this to spread awareness of what the army has to offer from Bursaries for university to weeks away skiing in the alps.

Community engagement and networking to promote an inclusive environment

My day to day job requires me to contact candidates within my local community and recruitment isn't just promoting what the army has to offer, but what the army can offer to the community too. My motivation is being able to assist those through the process to ensure they take full advantage of the opportunities available to them.

Small steps to big rewards.

Take it slow, understand what you want to do and the process involved, seize opportunities when you can! This can be a lifestyle not just a job.

Having the courage to join the army in the first place!

Before the army I worked in easy going jobs. I wanted more, but it seemed like such a monumental task. Just having the courage to take the first steps to the careers centre and asking about the process was big in itself. I would not have had the life I do now without the armed forces or the amazing experiences I have had! From war games in Canada to chilling in saunas in Norway. I have had the opportunity to travel in ways I never would have been able to without the army.