From RAF to Siemens Energy

Siemens Energy is focused on strategic growth and is driven by a dedicated team that includes employees who’ve successfully transitioned from the RAF into rewarding engineering careers. These interviews highlight the unique journeys of individuals who bring transferable skills, discipline, and leadership from their military backgrounds, enriching the company’s workforce.

As Siemens Energy continues to expand its operations, it has successfully navigated and overcome the challenges of global supply chain disruptions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. This resilience has strengthened the company’s ability to adapt and innovate, further reinforcing its commitment to fostering growth, supporting career development, and championing sustainability through cutting-edge engineering solutions.

These personal stories exemplify the diverse opportunities Siemens Energy offers and underscore its role as a dynamic, inclusive, and forward-thinking organisation.

Interview with Russell Bringlow, Senior Quality Control Engineer at Siemens Energy

Q: Tell us a little about your role at Siemens Energy. What does your day-to-day involve?
Russell: I’m a Senior Quality Control Engineer, so my primary responsibilities are visually inspecting parts, checking them against drawings, and making sure everything matches what the client needs. I also check dimensions and ensure all paperwork complies with the relevant laws. It’s a detailed process but all about ensuring quality and precision.

Q: You spent 22 years in the RAF. Can you tell us more about your experience there?
Russell: I joined the RAF as an Air Frame Engineering Technician and worked on hydraulics, pneumatics, and aircraft servicing. I spent 10 years working on Hercules aircraft at RAF Lyneham and on Eurofighters and Tornado F3s at RAF Coningsby. My role covered second-line servicing, ensuring planes were ready to fly, and I eventually reached the rank of Sergeant.

Q: How did your military background prepare you for a career in engineering?
Russell: The RAF instilled a “get it done” attitude in me. In the military, you don’t have the option to let things slide – if you don’t get it right, the consequences can be dire. That sense of responsibility and basic engineering principles have been hugely transferable. My time in the RAF also developed my leadership skills. I learned how to direct people, take control of scenarios, and think proactively – all of which are crucial in engineering.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in engineering after leaving the RAF?
Russell: Engineering has always been part of my life. My grandad worked on machines in the pits, and my dad was in the Air Force. I’ve always been fascinated by how things work and how they’re built. Transitioning into engineering after the RAF felt like a natural step. What we do at Siemens Energy has a direct, positive impact – supplying gas and power to communities. It’s meaningful work, and no two days are ever the same.

Q: What would you say to someone in the armed forces considering a move into commercial engineering?
Russell: Jump into it with a smile on your face! I know it can seem scary at first – you’re told you have transferable skills, but it’s easy to undersell yourself. The reality is, the transition isn’t as daunting as it seems. There’s plenty of training available to fill any gaps, and my experience at Siemens Energy has shown me how seamless the process can be. The skills you bring from the forces are so valuable in engineering – problem-solving, leadership, and discipline.

Q: What do you see as the future of engineering, and why do you think it’s important?
Russell: Engineering is fundamental to everything we do in today’s world. It’s about making people’s lives better, easier, and more functional. As we move toward cleaner, more sustainable environments, engineering will always play a crucial role. There’s always room for improvement, and being part of that evolution is incredibly rewarding.

Q: Any advice for those thinking about a career in engineering, especially ex-military personnel?
Russell: Don’t be afraid to take the leap. Engineering is a fantastic field, and the people are welcoming and supportive. There’s a shortage of young talent coming through, so your experience and perspective as someone from the forces can make a huge difference. Trust in your skills – they’re more transferable than you think – and remember, there are plenty of opportunities out there.

Q: How has your experience at Siemens Energy been so far?
Russell: I feel incredibly lucky to be here. Siemens Energy provided the training I needed to bridge any gaps, and the work we do has a real, tangible impact. It’s a privilege to be part of a team that contributes to something as essential as energy supply.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your role now?
Russell: I love solving problems and figuring out how to make things better. Every day brings something new, and knowing that what we do makes a difference – that’s what drives me.

Russell’s journey from the RAF to Siemens Energy is a testament to the value of transferable skills and the rewarding opportunities available in engineering. His advice? Take the leap – it’s worth it!

Interview with Barry Leighton, Fitter on the Build Line at Siemens Energy

Q: Barry, can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in engineering?
Barry: Growing up, I was what you might call a typical lazy teenager. I did a year of engineering in sixth form but didn’t enjoy the classroom environment. I didn’t have the qualifications I needed when I left school, so I decided to join the Army. I grew up in Scotland for 16 years before moving around the country, so I’ve always been open to new challenges and experiences. Eventually, I joined the RAF and trained as a Mechanical Aircraft Engineer.

Q: What kind of work did you do in the RAF?
Barry: I was based at RAF Coningsby, working on mechanical systems for aircraft. It was a lot of responsibility, and there was definitely some stress involved. When you’re working on aircraft, everything has to be done perfectly because lives are at stake. It was a role that required precision, discipline, and a lot of attention to detail.

Q: How did you transition from the RAF to Siemens Energy?
Barry: When I left the RAF after eight years, I took advantage of the resettlement package, which was really helpful. My manager at Siemens kept in touch throughout the process, which made the transition much smoother. I started here in August 2024, so I’ve been in the role for about five months now.

Q: What attracted you to Siemens Energy?
Barry: Siemens is one of the biggest companies in the area, and it’s well-known locally. A lot of young people see it as an attractive place to work because of the opportunities it offers. For me, it was a chance to work for a reputable company and continue doing what I love in a new environment.

Q: How would you describe your role as a fitter on the build line?
Barry: The fitter role is considered one of the most basic roles, but it’s an excellent starting point. There’s so much you can learn from this position, and it opens up a lot of opportunities for advancement. The work itself involves precision engineering, and I’ve found that you really have to rely on your skills and training. It’s different from the RAF because there’s less stress, but the tolerances here are much stricter. That makes it challenging in a good way, and I really enjoy it.

Q: What’s the work environment like at Siemens Energy?
Barry: I love it here. Every day I get up excited to go to work, which I think says a lot. You’re treated like an adult, with respect and trust, and you’re given the freedom to take responsibility for your work. There are also plenty of opportunities for growth and training. For example, I’ve already been offered the chance to work on another NVQ, which is great for my professional development.

Q: How did your experience in the RAF prepare you for this role?
Barry: My time in the RAF taught me discipline and the importance of getting things right the first time. That level of responsibility translates well into precision engineering, where even small errors can have big consequences. The experience of working under pressure and meeting high standards has been invaluable here.

Q: What do you wish more people knew about engineering?
Barry: I wish people understood how accessible engineering is as a career. It’s not as difficult to get into as some might think. You just need to be willing to learn and apply yourself. It’s also great to see more young girls taking an interest in engineering. The industry is for everyone, and diversity brings new perspectives and skills to the table.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a career in engineering?
Barry: Go for it! Be open to learning, and don’t be afraid to start at an entry-level position. Roles like a fitter might seem basic at first, but they give you a solid foundation and open up so many opportunities for advancement. Engineering is a rewarding field with a lot of variety, and if you’re willing to put in the effort, the possibilities are endless.

Q: What do you see as the biggest benefit of working at Siemens Energy?
Barry: For me, it’s the balance of responsibility and growth. The work is precise and challenging, but you’re also supported by a great team and given opportunities to develop. The personal connection with management has also made a big difference. Having a manager who values communication and builds strong relationships has been incredibly helpful during my transition.

Q: Finally, what do you enjoy most about your work now?
Barry: I love the variety and the opportunity to work on something tangible. Precision engineering here is all about solving problems and creating solutions, which is incredibly satisfying. Every day brings something new, and knowing that I’m part of something bigger makes it all the more rewarding.

Barry’s story is a testament to the value of transferable skills and the rewarding opportunities available at Siemens Energy. His enthusiasm for the role and his positive outlook on engineering make him a shining example of the career paths available in this dynamic industry.

Interview with Laura Saunders, Mechanical Fitter at Siemens Energy

Q: Laura, can you tell us about your background and how you got started in engineering?
Laura: My journey into engineering started when I was 16, straight out of school. Honestly, I wasn’t particularly interested in engineering then, but I was told it was the highest-paid job available. I’ve always loved sports, so the military felt like the right fit for me. I joined the RAF as an Aircraft and Mechanical Engineer and was based at RAF Coningsby for most of my career.

Q: What was your experience like in the RAF?
Laura: It was an incredible experience. I spent 16 years in the military, working on various aircraft, including the Red Arrows. It was a high-pressure environment, but I learned the importance of doing the job right and getting it checked over thoroughly. The work was always challenging but rewarding.

Q: What prompted you to leave the RAF and transition into a civilian role?
Laura: I left the military in 2018. During my time in the RAF, I had an office job while I was pregnant, and I wouldn't say I liked it. That experience made me realise how much I enjoyed the hands-on, practical work of engineering. After leaving, I moved straight into a civilian role that was very similar to what I’d been doing in the military, so the transition wasn’t too difficult at first.

Q: How has your role at Siemens Energy been different from your previous work?
Laura: This is my first non-aviation job, so it’s been a bit of a learning curve, but it’s also been a great challenge. The pace is different, and there’s less immediate pressure compared to the RAF. That’s given me more freedom to think creatively and solve problems in new ways. It’s been refreshing to work in an environment where there’s time to explore different solutions.

Q: What do you think about the current state of the engineering industry?
Laura: Engineering is losing a lot of skilled people, which is a concern. There’s also a significant age gap in some sectors. In aviation, for example, 90% of the workforce is over 60. We need more young people coming into the industry to fill those gaps.

Q: What has your experience been like as a woman in engineering?
Laura: I’ve been the only girl in my field since I was 17 years old, and I’m currently the only woman in the factory here. It can feel isolating at times, but things are improving. People are much more accommodating now, and women bring unique skills to the table. For example, sometimes you need someone smaller to get into tight spaces like fuel tanks – that’s where I come in! Women bring different perspectives and skill sets that are really valuable in this field.

Q: What advice would you give to someone leaving the military and considering engineering?
Laura: Don’t panic about the transition. There are so many job opportunities in engineering, and the skills you gain in the military are highly transferable. It’s a fantastic career if you enjoy working with your hands and solving practical problems. Even if engineering doesn’t come naturally to you, there are plenty of ways to develop your skills and find your place.

Q: What do you think needs to change to encourage more people to join engineering?
Laura: I think we need to show people how accessible and rewarding engineering can be. There’s a misconception that it’s difficult to get into, but it’s not as hard as people think. We also need to highlight the importance of diversity and encourage young people, especially girls, to consider it as a career.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your role at Siemens Energy?
Laura: I love the problem-solving aspect of my work. It’s incredibly satisfying to figure out solutions and know that you’ve done a job well. The environment here allows me to use my skills differently, and I’ve really enjoyed the challenge of stepping into something new.

Laura’s story is an inspiring example of how skills gained in the military can transition seamlessly into a rewarding career in engineering. Her journey highlights the importance of diversity in the industry and the exciting opportunities available for anyone willing to take on the challenge.

Interview with Spencer Hardy, Gas Turbine Fitter at Siemens Energy

Q: Spencer, can you tell us about your background and how you began your career in engineering?
Spencer: I grew up overseas in Spain, which was a great experience, but I didn’t do particularly well in exams, and it was tough to get a work permit before Spain joined the EU. A friend in the Army recommended the Air Force, and it sounded like a good fit. I joined and completed an apprenticeship in aerospace engineering, earning an old National Diploma. I ended up spending 34 years in the Air Force, so it was a big part of my life.

Q: What kind of work did you do in the Air Force?
Spencer: My work focused on aerospace engineering, and it was incredibly structured, which worked well for me. I even crossed paths with Barry, who now works at Siemens Energy, though we didn’t work directly together at the time. The structure of the military made it a great environment for me, especially after I was diagnosed with ADHD. The focus and routine really helped me thrive, and I developed skills that have been invaluable in my civilian career.

Q: What was it like transitioning out of the Air Force after such a long time?
Spencer: Honestly, it was absolutely terrifying leaving the airforce. After 34 years, I was worried about adjusting to civilian life and whether I’d feel institutionalised. The resettlement programme offered by the military was a huge help. It included CV writing workshops, interview techniques, and resources for job hunting. I started at Siemens Energy in September, just a few months after leaving the RAF in January. The support I received during that transition made all the difference.

Q: How has Siemens Energy supported you as someone who is neurodivergent?
Spencer: Siemens Energy has been incredibly inclusive. They’ve been very understanding about my ADHD, and that’s allowed me to bring my best to the role. Hyperfocus is a big part of how I work—it can be a great asset when I’m interested in something, allowing me to laser-focus on priorities. Of course, it can also be a challenge, but the team here is supportive, and they value the different perspectives I bring.

Q: Can you describe your role as a Gas Turbine Fitter?
Spencer: My main responsibilities involve stripping and building hot nozzles. It’s a hands-on role, and I really enjoy that aspect of it. After years of working in the highly regulated aerospace industry, it’s nice to work in an environment where there’s still precision but also a bit more flexibility. The work here is varied, with different sections in the bay offering new challenges, and there are plenty of opportunities for advancement.

Q: What drew you to Siemens Energy?
Spencer: I wanted to work somewhere that aligned with my values, and Siemens Energy’s commitment to sustainability stood out. They’re focused on reusing, repairing, and remanufacturing, which is important, especially for the younger generation. It’s reassuring to know that the work I do here contributes to a better future.

Q: How do you think transferable skills from the military have helped you in this role?
Spencer: The skills I developed in the military—precision, discipline, and problem-solving—translate really well to engineering. While aircraft work is more heavily regulated, the same principles apply. I feel like I’m back to being a hands-on engineer, and I take real pride in my work. It’s exciting to be able to use my skills differently and to see the tangible results of my efforts.

Q: What advice would you give to someone leaving the military and considering engineering?
Spencer: Use the resettlement programme—it’s a fantastic resource. The transition can be daunting, but there’s so much support available. Engineering is a great career if you’re hands-on and enjoy solving problems. Your military skills are highly transferable, and companies like Siemens Energy offer plenty of opportunities for growth and development.

Q: How does the work you do contribute to solving global challenges, like energy sustainability or infrastructure development?

I wanted to wake up knowing I was making a positive difference rather than contributing to the problem. At Siemens, we’re focused on addressing these global challenges by repairing and improving systems while striving to make turbines as efficient as possible.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at Siemens Energy?
Spencer: I love the variety and the opportunities to advance. Every day is different, and I’m constantly learning and improving. The team here is fantastic, and it’s rewarding to know that the work I do has a positive impact. I feel proud of what I have accomplished. I thoroughly enjoy coming into work every day, getting in the car, whereas before I avoided getting in the car.

Spencer’s story showcases how skills honed in the military can transition seamlessly into a civilian career. His journey highlights the importance of inclusivity, transferable skills, and the rewarding opportunities at Siemens Energy.

Explore a Career at Siemens Energy

Siemens Energy is a leading force in engineering and innovation, offering exciting opportunities for individuals passionate about problem-solving and making a difference. With a commitment to sustainability, continuous improvement, and employee development, Siemens Energy provides a dynamic work environment supported by tailored training programs, apprenticeships, and career advancement opportunities.

Whether you’re transitioning from the military like Andy Cropper or looking for your first step into engineering, Siemens Energy values transferable skills and diverse perspectives. Employees benefit from hands-on roles, management opportunities, and comprehensive workplace benefits, including training, health incentives, and sustainability-focused initiatives. 

If you’re ready to take the leap into a rewarding career, explore current opportunities at Siemens Energy by visiting their careers page: Siemens Energy Careers. Start your journey today and discover how you can contribute to powering a sustainable future!