Jock's Story

Transitioning from Navy to civilian life at RNAS Culdrose
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With over three decades of experience in military aviation, Jock has seen it all – from frontline squadrons to search and rescue missions. Today, he’s an Aircraft Engineering Supervisor at RNAS Culdrose, Cornwall, where he leads a highly skilled team supporting the Royal Navy’s Merlin helicopters.

“I’m a mechanical trade supervisor,” Jock explains. “I’m responsible for making sure our fitters follow procedures correctly, use the right tools, and get the specialist equipment they need. If things don’t go smoothly, I step in and make decisions on the spot to get the job done properly.”

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Jock’s day-to-day work is anything but predictable. “It really does vary,” he says. “Some days we’re waiting on parts or equipment, other days we’re deep into complex jobs like engine or gearbox changes. A gearbox replacement can take weeks – there are loads of checks before and after fitting, and the testing process is detailed.”

As a supervisor, Jock also manages a significant amount of paperwork. “Sometimes the paperwork takes longer than the job itself,” he laughs. “Even tightening a single critical nut or bolt can require multiple checks and sign-offs to ensure flight safety.”
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Jock joined the Navy in 1989 and trained at Culdrose before serving across multiple squadrons, including 706, 814, 810, and 771 Naval Air Squadron – a search and rescue unit he remembers fondly. “That was probably the best squadron I served on. We were doing real-life rescues – helping people at sea, transporting patients from remote areas. It felt like we were making a real difference.”

He later spent five years teaching mechanical engineering to new recruits, passing on his knowledge of aircraft maintenance and repair. “It’s rewarding to see trainees come in not knowing much, and leave with real skills. That’s how we all learned – from the older guys. Now we’re the older guys, and we’re helping the next generation.”
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"We really feel they appreciate us being here [...] Because of our experience, we're quick, efficient and trusted."

Jock
Aircraft Engineering Supervisor, RNAS Culdrose
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After 22 years of service, Jock took a short break before joining Serco in 2011. “I wanted to spend time with my family, take my daughter to school, and enjoy being home,” he says. “That’s one of the best things about working here – the work-life balance. You’re home every evening, every weekend. You’re actually living in the house you’re paying for.”

Jock’s team, part of Serco’s Operational Support Team (OST), is known for its agility and expertise. “We used to be called the ‘hit squad’,” he says. “We’d get a call from HQ to go to a squadron and do an urgent engine change. We’d get in, get the job done, and move on. Because of our experience, we’re quick, efficient, and trusted.”

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Supporting the Royal Navy means every job has real-world consequences. “If something critical isn’t fitted properly, things can go seriously wrong,” Jock says. “That’s why we have multiple layers of checks and independent supervision. Safety is everything.”

The relationship with the Navy is a point of pride. “We really feel they really appreciate us being here. We’ve spent years building up the reputation of this team, and we’re trusted to get on with the job. That makes a big difference.”
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For those leaving the military, Jock sees Serco as a natural next step. “If you’re ready to stop being sent away at short notice, and want to be home with your family, this is a great option. You’re still doing meaningful work, but with stability and balance.”

He’s also proud to live and work in Cornwall. “I’ve been here 45 years – I wouldn’t go back to where I was born. It’s a beautiful place, and I feel lucky to be part of such a strong, experienced team.”

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