Forces: Ex-Army
Anthony C - Staff Sergeant Technician
“I did my CTW right at the beginning of my resettlement period, 22 months before my discharge date. I firmly believe that the earlier you attend your workshop the better.”
Background
Anthony completed a full 22 year career in the Royal Signals, mostly spent as an Installation Technician. Reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant, he gained an immense amount of experience in management in general, especially project management.
Throughout his career, Anthony completed regular training courses. As Anthony points out: “During our service career we seldom take time to understand the benefit of the courses that we are asked to do. There are many opportunities to gain training and qualifications which will translate across to civilian employment.”
Resettlement
Anthony attended a Career Transition Workshop (CTW) in August 2008. Here’s his experience in his own words:
“I did my CTW right at the beginning of my resettlement period, 22 months before my discharge date. I firmly believe that the earlier you attend your workshop the better. It is so much more than a CV writing course.
“My CTP Career Consultant helped me look at my skillset and challenged my thinking, which in turn opened my mind to looking at employment where I would probably not have done. Probably most importantly, she helped me to ‘talk like a civilian’.
“I completed a Prince 2 course with a CTP Preferred Supplier and, although my first course was cancelled, I did manage to get it done before my discharge date. Had I not started my resettlement as early as I did, I may not have had the time to wait on another course. I also did the IOSH Managing Safely course, which was first class and excellent value for money.”
Outcome
Anthony found a Project Manager position advertised on the Almac Group website when checking established Northern Irish companies for vacancies. He was invited in for suitability tests and then an interview, which included him delivering a ten minute presentation on a pre-designated subject. Three weeks later he was offered the position.
As Anthony says: “I have absolutely no doubt in my mind that the experience gained through attending workshops with CTP helped me secure this job.”
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