From Royal Navy Chef to Smart Meter Installer

As a Leading Chef in the Royal Navy, Steve was used to managing his team to deliver service to hungry personnel, some of whom were happy to adopt the role of ‘food critique’. Having served in the Royal Navy for 27 years and experiencing active service in places like Northern Ireland and Bosnia, leaving HM Armed Forces for civilian life was always going to require an adjustment but the skills Steve learned during his time in the forces, to be self-motivated and responsible, ensured that he embraced the opportunity. Through his resettlement he successfully completed his ACS Core Gas Safety Training which provided a spring board for entry into a Smart Metering role. Here he talks about his experience within the Smart Metering Programme at EDF.

How did you become a Smart Metering Installer with EDF?

My resettlement was managed through Career Transitions Partnership (CTP). Having applied for a number of roles unsuccessfully, one morning having returned from the school run I happened to look at vacancies listed on CTP and see the Smart Metering Opportunity with EDF. Having completed my gas training and knowing someone who worked as a Smart Meter Installer elsewhere I felt my skills and experience would be transferrable. I went through the recruitment process, which although was a novel experience having not had an interview since 1989, went well and I have now been working as a Smart Meter Installer (Dual Fuel) for the last year.

Can you describe your role in more detail?

Having successfully completed the structured training programme to become Dual Fuel qualified, I now install Smart Meters for EDF's residential customers. The role is varied, every day is different and no job is the same. I really enjoy the face-to-face element of working with customers.

How has your HM Armed Forces background equipped you to do the role?

Discipline; sticking to timeframes; operating in an orderly and safe manner was important while I was serving in the Royal Navy. These same skills can be transferred to the role of Smart Meter Installer where you are responsible for fitting meters in customers' homes in a neat and safe manner, working to a time schedule.

What advice would you give service leavers looking to join the Smart Metering Programme?

It’s a good role where you can apply skills learnt. There are opportunities to develop new skills, not just technical but I also take part in mentoring. Carving out a career is possible and career progression is encouraged.