For Armed Forces Week 2025 our former military service team members reflect on transitioning into a civilian role having joined Tetra Tech through our Armed Forces Pathway scheme.
What has been the biggest learning curve adjusting into a civilian role after so many years of service in the Royal Navy?
“After 24 years in the Royal Navy, transitioning to a civilian career was exciting, but daunting. The biggest learning curve has been understanding and integrating into a completely new organisational culture.
While the Royal Navy provided a structured, rank-based environment with clear hierarchies and operational priorities, the civilian industry has allowed me to navigate a more fluid, relationship-driven landscape which I have found refreshing and rewarding.
I’m grateful to Tetra Tech and my colleagues for their support during my adjustment. It’s a powerful reminder that skills developed in service – leadership, adaptability, and resilience – are valuable across all sectors.”
Mark Walker – Director – Navy Portfolio, and Project and Cost Management Lead (South) at Tetra Tech and former Navy Submarine Captain
What concerns did you have about transitioning from the Air Force into a civilian role and how did your Tetra Tech colleagues help with them?
“I wanted a role that could translate my military experience to a civilian company. Tetra Tech has many ex-serving personnel, so explaining my experience was easy as they understood the military terms and the skills I bring to the team.
I also wanted a role where I could have real purpose and a community spirit like I was used to in the Armed Forces. I work primarily in the Defence Sector within Tetra Tech, allowing me to have an input into, and see first hand how my experience contributes to the success of projects such as designing and supporting the construction of a new Single Living Accommodation. This project definitely provided that purpose I was looking for.
The team I have worked with for the past six years has felt like working in a small unit. They have supported me in the same way my military colleagues did, and we have regular social events.”
Christiane Spencer – Associate Project Manager at Tetra Tech and former Project Manager for the Royal Air Force
Were you surprised with how many transferrable skills from military service could be applied to your career at Tetra Tech?
“I joined Tetra Tech in June 2023 after serving 23 years with the Royal Engineers. To my surprise, many of the skills I honed during my military service seamlessly transferred to my new role as a consultant. While I initially thought that technical skills like risk and project management would be the most valuable, I quickly realised that it was the soft skills that truly made a difference.
Communication, problem-solving, planning, adaptability, teamwork, and attention to detail were the skills that stood out most. They were ingrained in me through leadership training and my everyday experiences in the military. Time management and punctuality also proved crucial in building strong relationships – especially when interacting with clients.”
Liam Philpott – Principal Project Manager at Tetra Tech and former British Army WO2 Clerk of Works Electrical
How does Tetra Tech’s Armed Forces Pathway help to support former service members while making this transition?
“Tetra Tech is a great organisation to be a part of as an Armed Forces veteran, an active Reservist, or an adult volunteer with the Cadet Forces. There’s a belief here that our people are our biggest strength, and we already have a significant number of veterans amongst our teams.
I have seen first-hand how the Tetra Tech Armed Forces Pathway builds on a network of military experience and brings useful skills into the company. It makes sure that new starters are welcomed and connected with others who have made the same transition to offer support and guidance throughout. Tetra Tech also gives us paid volunteer days to give back to our communities.
Last year I volunteered for the Royal British Legion’s London Poppy Day, which brought together veterans, Reservists and family members from across the company to raise money, awareness, spin old war stories, and demonstrate Tetra Tech’s commitment to adding value to this community.”
Paul Johnson, Director – Project Management (DIO Account Lead) at Tetra Tech and Former Head of the Defence School of Electronic and Mechanical Engineering
The experiences and insights the Armed Forces community bring to Tetra Tech is a vital part of our mission to employ the industry’s most brilliant minds and passionate problem solvers.
Tetra Tech’s Armed Forces Pathway provides an opportunity for former military service members to apply their skills to projects while learning new ones through funded training opportunities to overcome the challenges that come with the commercial industry.
Visit our Armed Forces Pathway page to learn more.
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