The transition from military life to civilian can vary greatly from person to person. The Aardvark Group first spoke with James when he was still in post with The British Army, coming to the end of a 25-year career, seeking employment for his future.
From first interviews and meetings, it was clear to see that James would be a fantastic fit for the role of Test & Trials Engineer, with his vast experience with the Armoured Trials and Development Unit (ATDU) and exemplary military career as a whole.
The attributes James has carried with him have cemented him as a much-valued member of the team and an asset to the company.
On his transition experience, James stated, “After dedicating almost 25 years of my life to serving in the British Army, transitioning to civilian life is daunting but also felt like embarking on a new journey. It was a journey filled with uncertainty, but thankfully, The Aardvark Group played a pivotal role in smoothing out this transition and supporting me through my resettlement phase and giving me the opportunity to complete 3x 2-week stints with the company in way of a workplace experience programme which was invaluable before starting with the company full time on 01 Feb 24.
Transitioning from the structured environment of the military to a corporate world presents its challenges. However, Aardvark recognised the value of my military experience and provided tailored support to ease this transition. From mentorship programmes to specialised training sessions during the workplace experience. The Aardvark Group employ a number of veterans so the working environment is an easy one to fit in to and they have ensured that I have felt empowered to navigate this new chapter.
As I continue my journey into civilian life, I am grateful for the support and opportunity that Aardvark has provided. The transition from military service to a corporate career may have been challenging, but with the right support system in place, it has also been immensely rewarding. I look forward to contributing my skills and experience to Aardvark whilst continuing to honour the values instilled in me during my time in the British Army.”
The Aardvark Group recognises the value of the discipline, integrity, and work ethic that Armed Forces personnel demonstrate and carry with them into civilian employment and James Young is a shining example of this.