Transitioning to Operations Training System Manager: Richard Saunders’s story

CASE STUDY

Final Rank: Acting Wing Commander
Years Served: 22 years
Current role: Operations Training System Manager
Current employer Ascent Flight Training

During his time in the military, Richard thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of flying high-performance aircraft, working with high-calibre personnel and the Service ethos the RAF followed. While serving, he gained experience in communication and specialist technical knowledge; he also developed the ability to cope with a diverse range of tasks and leadership training.

To begin his resettlement, Richard attended a Career Transition Workshop at RRC Tidworth, which he found very useful and well presented. He also went to a FAR Workshop and gained a qualification in APMP (Project Management) during his resettlement.

Richard knew he wanted to stay in a career within aviation, and with prior knowledge of the company Ascent Flight Training, he undertook a civilian work attachment with them, which he loved. In September 2015 he sent the company his CV and, after successful interviews, was offered the role of Operations Training System Manager with them.

In this role, Richard is responsible for the development of training packages to support the delivery of flying training to the UK Armed Forces.

Reflecting on his resettlement, Richard advises other Service leavers that, ‘The resettlement package and opportunities to prepare for leaving are outstanding, so make the most of them.’