Transitioning into maintenance engineer: Mark Walters story
CASE STUDY
Final Rank: Corporal (Cpl)
Years Served: 23
Mark Walters served over two decades in the Royal Air Force, specializing in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) as an Electronics Technician. His role involved a variety of technical and safety responsibilities, including radar maintenance, fibre optics, and valve technology, which required continual learning and adaptation to new systems and technologies.
Throughout his military career, Mark acquired a wide array of technical and safety-related qualifications, ranging from specialized radar systems maintenance to advanced training in occupational safety. His commitment to professional development is evident from his extensive list of military qualifications, including courses on radar systems, voice communication systems, and health and safety management.
Civilian Qualifications and Use of Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC)
During his service, Mark also pursued civilian qualifications, focusing on broadening his skill set for life after the military. He utilized his Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) to complete several National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) courses, which are highly regarded in civilian industries for health and safety roles.
Courses Completed:
- NEBOSH National General Certificate in Health and Safety
- NEBOSH Introduction to Investigation
- NEBOSH Managing Stress at Work
- CPD Managing People Effectively
Mark selected these courses for their flexibility and relevance, allowing him to study at his own pace while balancing family commitments. He appreciated the quality of the training provided by Compassa, noting the engaging and accessible nature of the course content.
Transition to Civilian Employment
Mark's transition to civilian life began with the completion of his resettlement training and preparation for a new career. Despite attending a virtual Career Transition Workshop (CTW), he found it less beneficial, as it focused heavily on networking tools like LinkedIn, which he did not intend to use. His self-driven approach to selecting courses and preparing for civilian employment highlights his proactive attitude during this transition period.
First Civilian Job: Hospital Maintenance Engineer
Current Job Description: Mark’s role involves managing health and safety for contractors, performing validation checks on hospital equipment, and overseeing maintenance of essential facilities such as boilers and medical gas systems. His technical expertise and rapid adaptation skills, developed during his RAF service, have been crucial in his new role.
Reflections on Military Service and Civilian Transition
Skills Transfer: The technical skills Mark honed in the RAF, such as system maintenance and risk assessment, have translated well to his current role. His military training in Health & Safety (H&S) protocols has proven valuable, helping him secure his new position and excel in the diverse responsibilities it entails.
Challenges and Differences: Mark notes a significant lifestyle improvement after leaving the RAF. He values the stability and flexibility of his new role, particularly the proximity to his home and a more balanced work-life dynamic. While the salary is slightly lower than his military pay, his pension and additional compensation for unsociable hours provide financial stability.
Advice to Fellow Service Leavers:
- Plan Ahead: Start looking for jobs in your preferred location early, and understand the qualifications required.
- Choose Wisely: Pick courses that align with your interests and offer versatility for various career paths.
- Advocate for Yourself: Don't be afraid to push back against advice that doesn't align with your goals. Resettlement is about finding what suits you best, not fitting into a prescribed mold.
Conclusion
Mark Walters’ story is a testament to the importance of strategic planning and self-advocacy during the transition from military to civilian life. By leveraging his military experience and strategically selecting civilian qualifications, Mark successfully navigated his way into a fulfilling second career. His journey underscores the value of continuous learning and adaptability, skills that are as crucial in civilian life as they are in military service.
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