Advice after leaving the Navy!!!

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Hi all,

I am about to leave the Navy after being with them for over 12 years. I worked in the Communications Information Systems Branch (CIS). Here is some background of my experience in IT:

Some experience of Windows Server 2003
Node Operation in the Defence Information Infrastructure (Dii), comprising of Cisco Switches, Routers, Time Source, Virtual Machines, Riverbed Steelhead, SANS, Management Servers, User Access Devices and UPS. My experience in the aforementioned has only been for around 2 months. Basically dealing with software patch upgrades, anti-virus upgrades, user account maintenance and trouble shooting of the Virtual Machines etc.

I have a good knowledge of Windows platforms and carry out pc/laptop repairs in my spare time. I also repair gaming consoles and the like.

I have security clearance. I also have experience of working with HF/UHF and Satcoms, in maintenance and config/operation.

Along with the above I have 5 years experience in management, managing the CIS branch staff (Generally consisting of up to 5 members in the team), dealing with task allocation, training and general management of the ships Communications Office.

Based on research, and my interest, I am thinking of undertaking the MCSE and CCNA courses. I am not the best at home study so prefer classroom tuition. I have funds available to take the courses, but would really appreciate some advice on whether I am heading in the right direction. I am interested in either or both software and hardware.

Many thanks for your time.

Rik

 

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Hi Rik,

Firstly welcome to the forums. You've come to the right place.

My current employer has just hired a chap who recently departed from the RAF. He reached the rank of Warrant Officer and has joined the company as, essentially, a senior manager over looking our engineering departments and their operations. I think this is potentially a route for you, given your management experience.

The MCSE (which is an MCITP now isn't it?) and CCNA are good courses to take up. I'm also doing my CCNA (slowly), but I am concentrating on GNU/Linux for my server side of things. That being said, it's difficult to say whether or not you're heading in the right direction with these courses as it depends entirely what you want from your career.

I think if I was in your case I would look at IT management but regardless of what you decide to do, an MCITP/CCNA would help you go a lot further than someone who doesn't have them.

 

Hi McRilly

Many thanks for taking the time to respond to my post. I have taken your comments onboard and shall do some research. Again, many thanks!

Rgds

Rik

 

When you say IT Management, what courses are there out there to take on to further that avenue of career? I have looked into MCITP and CCNA at local colleges, just awaiting responses on prices and availability. To be honest it's a close call between software and hardware, as I love both. I have even thought of going down the security avenue.....Like I say, I love all aspects of working with computing and would just like to know how best to approach my career change.......*bangs head against wall lol!!!*

 

I was in a similar position. I assume you are using ELCAS for your course? Elcas - Enhanced Learning Credit Administration System

You have a great advantage in that you are security cleared, even better if you have developed vetting. Serco and Paradigm are contracted on skynet 5. They are regurlarly recruiting for network operators and give you full training. I think you are already above the level required. After 12 years I assume you were about the level of CPL / SNCO so it may be a drop in pay for you. However, career progression is very good.

If you want to get a cert fast, Firebrand training will do it and they accept ELCAS however from what I've heard you wont learn as much as if you choose a more traditional provider (non-acelerated learning).

The best advice I can give is stick around on CF, forget about what your resettlement officer says ask on here for expert advice.

Hope this helps! Oh and welcome

 

Hi Auror

Thanks for your time! I have spoken with my employer and it would seem I am NOT entitled to ELCAS!!! I am not happy about this as the RFA are on the front line as are the other Military Services, and I am employed by the MOD. I intend to pursue this, and shall contact my local MP too if necessary!! So Serco and Paradigm? I will investigate this...

I am getting a substantial compensation payment from my employer, so I am fortunate enough to be in a position to do any courses I choose to, but like I say, I would prefer to do a classroom environment. I am awaiting input from a couple colleges on prices and availability. The $64,000 question is just exactly what to do!!!!!

 

I've worked on the private contractor side of Dii for the past 5 years and have come across a number of people from the Navy and RAF - knowing how the system has changed from Dii-C to F has been useful to know where the spots are in the system!!

Whats your location? Because that can depend on what opportunities there are for you.

 

Hi Derkit

Thanks for your msg. I'm in Chorley, Lancashire. The only help desk I am aware of is in Newcastle (DSMT)........and that's too far.

Rgds

 

Not my neck of the woods I'm afraid.
I know my company is quite happy to take on permanent staff at the lower levels simply because they have either a current SC or DV clearance as that seems to be their biggest worry about getting someone through it.

If you search for "security cleared jobs" or something similar in google, there are a number of websites that are designed particularly for those of us who have a clearance - I don't know what's out there in your area, but always worth having a look around or speaking to some of the specialist recruitment agencies out there.

 

Hi Rik,

My name is Andy, I am in the same position as you. I am just getting into my last 2 years in the Royal Navy and I am starting my resettlement.
I want to go down the Networking route as well so will follow this thread with interest and take heed of the advice on offer. I have served in the RN for
21 years now and the thought of coming out into the big world is a little scary but extremely exciting. Let us know how you get on in Manchester.

Cheers,

Andy