Thread: Decisions, decisions...

In my experience, most places that are looking for a full qualified "insert job here", will take an ex-ADF person over a civvy.

Having a history of service behind you, means that generally, you are better behaved, more settled in life, know how to listen, able to think for yourself....etc

I know a number of ex-service people that have found jobs easier than civilians.

The services will also give you training on a number of different things. It also gives you the chance to have a look at things to see if you would like them. For example, you might get the idea that you want to work on choppers. Well, speak to the CO, and you might get a weeks detachment to try it out. If you don't like it, then nothing lost.

When you have done your prevoc, do the rounds of the Land Rover establishments in Adelaide and talk to the service managers about apprenticeships. See what they have to offer. Maybe even ask them if they have any any 'pre-apprenticeship' jobs going in the workshop to see if it is the sort of place you want to work. Nothing is lost by asking and it may just open a few opportunities for you.

Cheers
KarlB

Originally Posted by Xul

The main reason I'm wondering on that question is whether a place would want an ex-ADF mechanic, or whether they would prefer an apprentice so they can train them up in their way.

Some feedback would be great. It would be especially good to hear from some mechanics with their views.....

Hi- I am ex RAN and a bit of a jack of all trades- Anti Submarine, Diving, Pearl diver, Security work, Gov-printer, Gov-taxation, Gov-forensic accounting, Gov-fraud detection and now my own business.

Not a mechanic but know many. I have found my background did get me to the front of the que in many job applications and also in getting on project work I wanted to be involved with. The question you might be better looking at is which branch of the services would give you the type of expirance you want there and for future use. Travel all over the world including lot of places people pay to go to, good bed, heavy engeniering and good food=Navy
Travel to dangersous spots people pay to get away from- occasional no bed and often shocking food, smelly and dirty but broad lighter engine exposer is Army.
Airforce for specalist and probebly high value post service air craft mechanical expirance- beds and good food and some travel to mostly safe secured locations.

This is clearly a very simplified view of the services mate They are fun if you play the game right. Many people find it dificult to translate service qualifications to Civi life so research and pre planning like your doing is well worth your time

an apprenticeship in the defence is only a 5 year commitment these days...i think

in my days it was a nine year committment. off the guys i keep in contact with that have discharged have not continued on with there trade outside the army

myself, i went into maintenance management i.e. off the tools but still in the environment

having a trade is a good solid base to start from

I don't know anyone from where I did my apprenticeship (non mechanical and army). But I do know at least 7 or 8 guys who all did there apprenticeships in the army and are all still good mates and catch up regularly.
The army seems to make you do some dumb stuff, but you will certainly get a laugh, make some good mates and have plenty of adventure. Besides, there are not many jobs you get to blow stuff up, run things down, and bog stuff all in the name of work.
Getting a job after an apprenticeship is mostly about attitude before quolls. If you know your job, have, have some idea about yourself, and present well, you will get a job regardless.

I'd imagine being a mechanic for any make of vehicle these days is more diagnosis by computer, and replace the suspect part. Even a gear box of diff.