Hi there, first post so I'd best introduce myself! I'm Josh, 20 and from Lincolnshire.
I'm hoping for some advice about joining the signals. Firstly, do any of you happen to know what the current state of recruitment is? I realise that certain areas are being threatened by the SDSR but I would hope that the signals will not be affected by this?
Secondly I'm looking for some inside information on the operational differences between EWSOs and Troop Commanders in the signals. I'm really interested in EWSO but I have the qualifications to apply for Troop Commander.
I've heard from a number of people that Troop Commander is much more a managerial role than it is a practical one - heavier on the theory but not so much on the practical side. Coming from a sound engineer background I do have an aptitude for learning and a real passion for the theory behind electronics and communications equipment, but I want to be able to work with this stuff hands-on in an operational environment. I appreciate that all Officers need to be managers, but how much of the fiddly stuff do you guys do? I mean absolutely no disrespect and I hope it doesn't sound in any way condescending, just looking to clear that up.
I'm looking for a life-long career in the forces so progression is another important deciding factor for me here.
So - what could I expect in terms of career progression from either route?
Am I being stupid to consider not applying as an officer when I have the qualifications?
Am I completely wrong in my assumptions that Troop Commander would not match the level of practical work I'm looking for?
I'm visiting the ACIO tomorrow to ask the same things, but I'd really appreciate some advice from those of you on the inside.
Thanks and best wishes,
Josh
I'm hoping for some advice about joining the signals. Firstly, do any of you happen to know what the current state of recruitment is? I realise that certain areas are being threatened by the SDSR but I would hope that the signals will not be affected by this?
Secondly I'm looking for some inside information on the operational differences between EWSOs and Troop Commanders in the signals. I'm really interested in EWSO but I have the qualifications to apply for Troop Commander.
I've heard from a number of people that Troop Commander is much more a managerial role than it is a practical one - heavier on the theory but not so much on the practical side. Coming from a sound engineer background I do have an aptitude for learning and a real passion for the theory behind electronics and communications equipment, but I want to be able to work with this stuff hands-on in an operational environment. I appreciate that all Officers need to be managers, but how much of the fiddly stuff do you guys do? I mean absolutely no disrespect and I hope it doesn't sound in any way condescending, just looking to clear that up.
I'm looking for a life-long career in the forces so progression is another important deciding factor for me here.
So - what could I expect in terms of career progression from either route?
Am I being stupid to consider not applying as an officer when I have the qualifications?
Am I completely wrong in my assumptions that Troop Commander would not match the level of practical work I'm looking for?
I'm visiting the ACIO tomorrow to ask the same things, but I'd really appreciate some advice from those of you on the inside.
Thanks and best wishes,
Josh