Monster: What made you want to be a ICT Specialist?
Melissa: I was interested in computers from a young age and wanted a career that would give me an opportunity to work with computers and all the associated systems. I enjoy the challenges that technology gives and relish the opportunity to carry out complex problem solving.

What skills and education are essential to your job? 
You will need educational qualifications in Maths, English and an approved Science/ICT based subject in GCSE, grades C and above. It helps if you have an aptitude in Information Communications Technology and the ability to learn future communications equipment.

As an ICT Specialist, you could find yourself working on an airfield, in an underground bunker, office or workshop. Latest generation aircraft are as reliant on information flow as they are on fuel – and it could be your job to set up, operate and maintain the mission and ground support systems that enable the Eurofighter aircraft to complete its mission.

What advice can you offer someone wanting to become an ICT Specialist? 
The best place to begin is at your nearest RAF careers office to speak to an advisor there. You can apply to be an ICT Specialist when you reach 15 years and 9 months of age and the quicker you can start, the quicker you can start to develop the skills you need to be a success..

What are the best and worst things about your role?
As an ICT Specialist you could find yourself working on an airfield, in an underground bunker, office or workshop. It could be your job to set up, operate, administer and maintain these systems in remote locations, or you could play your part in ensuring that global communications are available. My job is very varied!

An ICT specialist can work anywhere in the world, with the Army and Navy and many foreign forces. You’ll meet a lot of people and make many friends, as well as getting satisfaction in providing as well as fixing communications which are vital to any military force.

Are there any perks to the job?
As a member of the Royal Air Force you’ll have access to the gym facilities at all military bases, with some having swimming pools. I’m a keen golfer and have enjoyed playing golf for the RAF and have had the opportunity to play for base at many places in the UK, Germany and Gibraltar. I am part of a golf society and enjoy discounts on courses and equipment. I am keen on adventure training and have been to Scotland and Wales, regularly enjoying hill walking, rock climbing and water sports. I have also just applied for a skiing course, ran by RAF instructors.

What is the end goal in your career? 
I hope to have a full career in the RAF, and hope to gain the qualifications that are open to me as an ICT Specialist. I hope to use my knowledge and experience from the RAF to one day gain employment in the telecoms industry.

Finish this sentence. "This week I have been mostly..."
"...utilizing remote software tools to fix problems that cannot be resolved in the field"


Fancy following in Melissa's footsteps? Check out our latest ICT Specialist jobs or see the latest jobs with the Royal Air Force.