This week on the NAAFI Break we focus on the transition 'into' as well as 'out of' the military.
I first came across the post below from Andy Challen and immediately identified what I have felt for some time, the need for good mentors and role models for our children. That person who will light the flame of ambition or nurture and support to show that 'anyone can' reach their potential. That kind of person, the mentor, crops up time and time again in the transition particularly with Veterans helping Veterans. I will ask you at the end of this episode to recognize who your 'mentor' has been since deciding to leave the military?
There are two jobs that everyone wants to be in the RAF, PTI or Pilot! #ifyouknowyouknow
Original post from Andy Challen MA CMgr FInstLM MSyl
Innovation Champion at Inzpire Ltd
For those not getting the A level (edit - or GCSE) results expected or needed today:
I wanted to be an RAF pilot and decided to study A-level Geography and Modular Technology (electronics, pneumatics, structures). But I failed O Level Maths due to disrupted teenage years in a single-parent family where I believe my mother suffered mental health issues.
My retake O Level maths class clashed with some of my A-level classes. I was the only person in the town studying Modular Technology (the first year it had been run so I was the test case). Each subject was taught in a different school so I cycled around the town of Stevenage trying to get to the classes on time.
I skipped some of the technology classes to go to maths classes as I needed the maths to be an RAF pilot.
My Headteacher found out and told me he would give me a bad reference if I did not attend and pass the Modular Technology class. So I quit subjects I really enjoyed after a year and did a 4-year apprenticeship at BAE Dynamics. I worked 4 days a week with 50 or so great colleagues in my intake year and we went to college one day a week and 3 evenings a week most terms. I went into lodgings at 17.
I got the academic qualifications needed. I lived on the breadline and caught rabbits in the local woods to supplement my diet, but had no debt. I spent 4 years in the high tech industry. I planned for 5 years but at the end of the apprenticeship, most of us were not offered jobs. The Cold War was ending and the defence industry was crashing.
I drove a 7.5 tonne truck (as you could in those days on a normal licence) and worked long hours delivering fresh and frozen meat and veg to pubs, hotels and hospitals. I waited for my RAF application to be processed and to attend selection. I promised the family firm I would stay on for Christmas, their busiest period.
I joined the RAF and served 24 years, became a Qualified Flying Instructor and Electronic Warfare Instructor on the Tornado and reached the rank of Wing Commander. I went to Staff College and struggled through a Masters. I have O levels, and a Masters. No A levels. No degree.
The flight plan is not always direct routing. Stay loose, chill your jets, find your own path.
