3rd Jun, 2020

Case study: Graeme Boyd, infantry soldier in the British army

Graeme Boyd

As part of our #DYWKeyWorkers campaign we spoke to Graeme Boyd, an infantry soldier in the British army, to ask him what his typical day looks like and gain insight into his career journey.

What attracted you to the industry you are in?

I wanted to test myself and my resolve and also see and experience new things that I wouldn’t normally expect coming from a Glasgow working class area.

How long have you been with the British Army?

20 years.

What training have you done?

I am a weapons instructor and a language specialist. I have been in a specialist company that focuses on heavy weapons and long range reconnaissance.

What skills have you learned?

I can speak two languages that I couldn’t before and have developed my leadership and communication skills through my instructor roles.

Have you gained professional qualifications?

Yes, Pashto level 2211, BSL level 2.

What skills have you learned?

Good communication and effective leadership.

Was there anything that surprised you?

How competitive the day-to-day life is.

Is there anything unusual?

Most of the things I’ve done could be considered unusual to most people.

Do you get support?

Yes. The army are supportive in most aspects of life.

What’s favourite part of your job?

Interacting with the future generations of soldiers and inspiring them to do as I did.

Did you always want to pursue a career in this industry?

No.

What is your advice for school leavers looking for apprenticeship?

Stick at it and get as much as you can while you can while it’s free and you have the flexible time to do it before life gets in the way.

What is your career goal?

I have already achieved most of what I set out to do in my life so I have completed my goals more than once over.

Get in touch with the team at info@dyw.org.uk

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