From Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers to Warhead Mechanical Engineer

Warhead Mechanical Engineer

What did you do before AWE?

I graduated from Loughborough University in 2017 after reading a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering. Upon completion of Royal Military Academy Sandhurst I commissioned in the Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers where I assumed command appointments in Colchester, Lyneham and Tidworth. I was lucky enough to manage teams working on various platforms ranging from light role weapons systems up to Challenger 2 tanks both in barracks and deployed. I deployed overseas to Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, Germany, USA and Norway throughout my career and wish to continue deploying overseas as a reservist.

Why did you choose AWE?- what attracted you?

I was seeking new and different challenges which still allowed me to remain in defence, offer stability at home and utilise more of my mechanical engineering expertise. With future capabilities expanding for AWE I couldn’t not seize the opportunity. Although there are other engineering companies in the SW I struggling to identify companies which could offer such technical challenges, promotion prospects and benefits for employees.

Tell us about your time at AWE?- What do you do?

Although I haven’t been with the company for a long time, since joining AWE I’ve completed the well organised induction training, role specific training, observed live trials and I have started to plan my own trial for October. Once I’ve settled in a little more I endeavour to maximise opportunities in the AWE Armed Forces, Veterans, Reserves and Cadet Network.

How has your experience in the forces helped with your role at AWE?

Being able to juggle multiple projects and being able to communicate clearly with a human touch has really helped me settle in and set some good first impressions (hopefully). The AWE behaviours are very closely aligned to the Army’s Values and Standards so the transition to civilian life has been quite easy so far. Moving from the Army where we are the ‘customers’ of the Defence industries equipment and processes I am able to contextualise my own work and how it will impact the staff and Sailors delivering the Nations Continuous At Sea Deterrent.

Is there anything that AWE offers or supports, that’s particularly helped you in your career?

I haven’t been at the company long enough yet to utilise the vast support networks but as I progress through my CEng CPD pathway I have every faith I will receive noteworthy support.

What’s the best thing about your job? 

Although I left the military to gain more home stability my favourite part of the job so far has been the off site trials. The trials were a great culmination of planning, practical execution, technical analysis and wider company networking. Prior to starting I knew the AWE benefits were pretty good but I didn’t realise how good they actually were. The pension is very good compared to the AFPS 15, I’ve maximised the cycle to work scheme and the 9 day fortnight is a game changer.

How do you see your career progressing at AWE?

I hope to gain experience and credibility delivering technical analysis and physical trials over the next year. Following this I wish to combine my prior management experience and my newly developed technical expertise and move into the management sphere were I will be able to enable effective resourcing, prioritisation and management. In parallel, I’m tracking my CEng CPD pathway and look to sit my viva in the next 3 years.