From RAF to Engineering Manager
Gary's story
How long did you serve (what force), and when did you join DE&S?
I served in the RAF for 32 years, retiring in 2012. I joined DE&S in 2018.
What is your role in DE&S?
I am currently the Engineering Manager for the Lightning Delivery Team.
Tell me about your military career?
I joined the RAF in 1979 as an electrical mechanic and following tours on Vulcan and Harrier (in RAF Germany). I was commissioned into the Engineer Branch in 1992. Tours followed on Jaguar, Support Helicopters, Tornado and Harrier. I served on Operational Tours in the Gulf, in both the desert and onboard ship, with 16 Air Assault Brigade and onboard HMS Invincible. I also served in the USA and Saudi Arabia.
What current qualifications do you have?
Formal qualifications are limited to an HNC in Engineering. However, I am a Chartered Engineer and Member of the City & Guilds Institute.
What knowledge did you have of DE&S prior to joining?
Comprehensive, I have worked with DE&S in previous military roles.
What is it like working for DE&S?
I am comfortable as many of the team are ex-military, so the ethos is similar.
How do you make a difference?
Using my extensive knowledge and experience of military fast air to influence and mentor some of my younger graduate colleagues.
What have you learnt whilst working in DE&S?
The need for persuasion in a management capacity vice commend in the military environment.
What have you achieved in your time at DE&S?
Initial Operating Capability (IOC) and Maritime IOC for the worlds most advanced 5th Generation aircraft.
What would your message be for people who are leaving (or who’ve already left) the armed forces?
Consider DE&S as a future employer. The familiarity and technical challenges make it a worthwhile career move.