Need Advice...

[ftb5107]

Hi Everyone,

I was wondering if I could get some feedback on
joining up with the RAF reserves. I'm a Canadian born
citizen, have a BSc in Physics, a diploma in
engineering tech, and engineering experience. Also
working on an MSc in engineering through distance
education. I'm interested in contributing to the RAF
in an engineering or technical capacity.

I checked out the engineer officer position, but it
seems to be very competitive. Is this true ? Does
anybody know of anyone working in this capacity in the
RAF reserves ? Does anybody know of people working in
technical positions in the RAF reserves, like
troubleshooting UAVs, or air defence systems ?

How are their jobs ? Are they treated respectably by
regular members ? How easy is it to advance one's career
as a reservist compared to a regular ?

I get the feeling I'd have a harder time getting in
because I'm Canadian, and have never lived in the UK.
To add to that I've got no military experience.

Thank-you very much for any contribution from anyone.

Mike

[stillin1]

ftb5107

I think this one is kinda specialised - probably best to ask the RAF Careers guys. They will, I doubt be able to give you an answer either, but could possibly point you in the right direction!
good luck:ok:

[ProfessionalStudent]

Mike

I have quite a lot to do with the Royal Auxiliary Air Force and they DO take full time guys on. You'd probably have to start part time and then apply for a full time contract when it was available/offered.

Do you realise that Engineering Officers in the RAF are managers and not engineers? Most EngOs I know would love to get their hands dirty but are unable to.

I know a bit about 606 Sqn RAuxAF and they're a good bunch with bags of Operational experience and a very good rep amongst the regulars. Like all things, you'll get respect for just being good at your job. Most regulars won't know you're a reserve unless you tell them...

Try their website http://www.rafreserves.com/the_units/UnitDetails.aspx?unit=93
and give them a call. The boss is a nice and approachable bloke and they'll give honest answers to your questions and should point you in the right direction if they can't help.

Good Luck,

ProStu
:ok:

[ftb5107]

Hi ProStu,

Thanks for that info on RAF reserves. I'll definitely check out that link.

Yeah I've always figured that regarding engineers as well. They always seem to be tied in to a bureacratic role than 'engineering' as we're taught in school. So its not much different in the UK I see. I guess its better to seek up a technician level position to get real opportunities in working with and understanding advanced technology.

So what kind of work were you doing in this unit ? Are you from the engineering side ?

Mike

[c-bert]

Mike,

One of my best friends is a JEngO of helicopters. The role is very much man management.

As far as the reserves go (I'm on 606 albeit part time) you can do Ground Support Equipment engineering (depending on which sqn you join) but I don' think there are any officer opportunities.

PM me if you want more info - www.rafreserves.com is an excellent place to start.