Insider profil
Keen to receive questions about
Top Insider Advice
I have served 16 years in the Army now. I have lots of experience gained though courses, exercises, operations and life. But, there is always something new. Something I've never done before. A new system, weapon, theory or problem. You can always learn something new, or improve something old. Don't be afraid to ask for help and always seek feed back. But remember feedback will not always be positive.
Career path
Outreach Team 2iC Scotland
British Army
From 12/2024 to 05/2025Light Cavalry (RAC) SCOTS DG
British Army
From 06/2010 to 12/2024Company
What do you like about your job and the company?
My motivation changes. I joint the Army because it was something I always wanted to do. That and a Binman. I wanted to scratch that itch. I wanted to travel. I wanted to fight. As a young solider it was promotion. The desire be top student on courses. The strongest on PT. The guy trusted with responsibility. As a commander is was respect. Gaining the confidence of your team. Showing others what your capable of. Now, 16 years later. Its stability. I'm married now, I have two small children. I need to provide for them.
Greatest achievements
This course is known throughout the Army as being one of the hardest courses soldiers can attend. It is a 9 week course delivered in Beacon, Wales to train senior infantry soldiers in the role of a platoon sergeant on operations. I was the only non-infantry soldier on the course, with little to no experience in some of the subjects we would be covering. As the clear odd one out and representative of the Royal Armoured Corps, a positive attitude, the willingness to learn and humility allowed me to bond with my course-mates quickly. With their support and my determination, I achieved a top third placement and an above the standard grade (B+). My report highlighted the fact that as a non-infanteer I had out performed senior infantry soldiers.
Steven -
Supply Chain Operator
Top Insider Advice
I honestly believe it's worth at least trying life in the Army. If you don't like it, you can leave with a story to tell, and you'll have gained some life skills. If you do like it, you'll have a rewarding career that you can be proud of, you'll grow in confidence, find mates for life, and see the world. The army application process is quite unique and it’s an experience in itself. Even if you're unsuccessful you'll have that story to tell and you'll definitely have learned something about yourself. Also, most times, just because you've been unsuccessful doesn't mean you can't try again.
Tori C
Regimental Medical Officer
Top Insider Advice
All doctors at some point will have a difficult time, and many will have considered leaving medicine or the NHS. That might be why you are reading this! I am very glad that I decided to find a different way to continue my career, and would recommend that anyone having doubts has a look to see what else is available. If you love adventure and a bit of a challenge, the Army is an excellent opportunity. You will need to take 3 years out between FY2 and starting specialty training, but most Army doctors will tell you this is the most enjoyable 3 years of your career! After those 3 years, you will likely have a great looking CV and a much clearer idea of what you want to specialise in. The majority of doctors will stay employed by the Army during the training years, although some may choose to return to the NHS to train, this is usually if they decide to do a specialty that the Army doesn't provide (eg Paediatrics). It has been an excellent career change for me, and I would highly recommend it to anyone.
Jason V
Ground crew specialist
Top Insider Advice
When I first applied for the Army I knew I could better my qualifications and travel around the world, but never knew I could gain so much more, for example I would have never of said in 10 years time I want to be a skiing instructor, but the Army has given me that experience and helped me work towards it.
