Reserves Day celebrates the people who give up their free time to serve in the military.
As part of Armed Forces Week, Tetra Tech’s Defence Operations Coordinator, Josh Hewson, discusses balancing a full-time career while serving in the armed forces.
What inspires you to give up your spare time to serve in the military while working full-time?
After a 15 year career as a regular soldier in The Light Dragoons, serving on operations in Afghanistan as Brigade Reconnaissance Force (BRF) and reaching the rank of Sgt, I didn’t want to let my passion of serving my country fade out.
I felt my experience would be really valued in the Army Reserve, doing the same role with the Queens Own Yeomanry (QOY) as I had with the Light Dragoons (LD).
What is the most rewarding thing about being an army reservist?
The most rewarding thing about the Army Reserve is being able to switch lives for the weekends and go away to do challenging and interesting things. It helps me to come back to work clear headed and ready for the newer exciting challenges I’m taking on with my team at Tetra Tech.
Is it challenging to maintain a work/life balance while being a reservist?
It’s challenging to juggle a busy workday and my commitments to keeping up to date with military practices and conduct. Doing these things alongside family priorities like school runs and encouraging my children to pursue their interest in extra-curricular activities can take its toll. Luckily, my role affords me some flexibility to keep on top of it all!
What is your favourite thing about life in the reserves?
Being a reservist is a commitment that I take seriously. However, some of my favourite things about serving is the amount of flexibility I have, gaining access to accredited courses, keeping fit and active, adventurous training, and all with extra pay.
Tetra Tech values the skills and experience the Armed Forces community brings to their future roles. As signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant and holders of the Employee Recognitions Scheme (ERS) Gold Award, we support service leavers, veterans, reservists, and military partners who are interested in joining our business.
For more information, visit our Armed Forces Pathway page.
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