Graduates

Current role and title

As a DESG graduate, I am currently in an outpost of the Harrier IPT within BAE Systems. Here I have written the reports for two Aircraft Final Conferences, where the latest capability improvements to the Harrier are formally agreed. I have also attended a trial installation of new equipment on a Harrier aircraft – great for climbing over aircraft!

What attracted you to the MOD and DESG?

The MoD and its agencies form a huge organisation that varies enormously. The DESG Training Scheme allows us to experience the full breadth of this variety, and also allows secondments out into industry. There is also the opportunity to develop in our chosen engineering discipline, as training and work placements are guided by the engineering anchor system.

Highlights of your career to date

On my first placement, I attended a trial of new paint schemes in Cyprus, giving me an appreciation of how the MoD interacts with its research and development sections. I also produced a business case for potential new equipment for fast jets.

I then joined the Defence Science Technology Laboratory, where I attended various trials testing the effectiveness of infra-red countermeasures. This included one month-long detachment in Germany on a NATO-led multi-national trial.

A further highlight has been the Graduate Discussion Group. We were allocated a topic to research, culminating in a final report and presentation. We visited a number of MoD sites while performing our research, including aircraft simulators, a sinking ship simulator and riding around in various armoured vehicles.

What you hope to achieve in the future

I hope to continue to experience the full variety of challenges that the MoD has to offer for the rest of my training period, while also developing in my chosen engineering discipline. Once promoted I hope to continue using my engineering training to enable the Armed Forces to support UK Defence and be a ‘force for good in the world'.

What advice would you give someone thinking of a career in the MOD

I have found that the MoD can provide a huge variety of challenging opportunities. However, it also allows continued development in several engineering disciplines through specific training courses and focused work placements within the Engineering Anchor System.

We manage our own development by planning placements and identifying relevant training with the support of a mentor and a significant training budget. Our development is also ably supported by the DESG Training Office, who enable us to make the most of the many opportunities that arise throughout the organisation – you're not on your own!

I have thoroughly enjoyed my first year on the DESG Graduate Training Scheme, and look forward to a challenging, varied and rewarding future career in the MoD.