We were recently invited to spend the day at nearby RAF Leeming thanks to our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant and our Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award. Very keen to accept, George (our Senior Web Developer) and I made the short trip over and joined lots of other people from businesses and organisations across Yorkshire.
The aim of the day was to give us a better understanding of life at RAF Leeming, learn more about the RAF Reserves, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the people, technology and teamwork involved in protecting our country.
A lot of learning
One of the highlights of the day was learning about the Hawk aircraft based there. We heard from the Qatari Training Team, who explained the relationship between RAF Leeming and Qatar, and how Hawk training jets in Qatari livery are used to train future military pilots. They took us through the journey pilots follow, progressing from smaller propeller aircraft to the Hawk jet trainer - the same aircraft used by the Red Arrows.
What really stood out to me was just how demanding that journey is. During a conversation later in the day, I learned that for every 50 candidates who enter fast jet training, only around two make it all the way through! When you hear statistics like that, you quickly realise you're looking at a very special group of people.
We were then taken into one of the hangars to see the aircraft up close, where I even got the chance to sit in the cockpit. I have to say, I've never seen so many switches, dials and controls in one place - it certainly gave me a whole new appreciation for the training and expertise it takes to be able to fly these things!
Crazy kit!
Another eye-opening part of the visit was learning about the equipment and systems used to defend the station. We were shown examples of the kit carried by personnel and introduced to some of the technology being used to detect, locate and disrupt drones and other airborne threats.
The systems on display were incredibly impressive, from advanced listening equipment and long-range cameras through to technology capable of disrupting communications and neutralising potential threats.
As someone who would much rather see problems solved through conversation than conflict, I found this part of the day both fascinating and reassuring. None of us want to think about the need for these systems, but it was encouraging to see the level of planning, professionalism and innovation dedicated to keeping people safe.
The dream team
The afternoon moved from military operations to teamwork challenges. We were split into groups and tasked with building a tower using large wooden blocks, ropes and a central lifting mechanism. It sounds simple enough, but success depended entirely on communication and teamwork. I'm pleased to report that the team George and I were part of emerged victorious... or at least that's how we remember it!
Joking aside, it reinforced something that applies just as much in business as it does in the RAF: great things happen when people work together towards a common goal.
Recognising RAF Reserves
A key theme running throughout the day was the contribution made by RAF Reservists. We heard from two individuals who balance full-time civilian careers alongside their responsibilities as Reservists, giving up their own time to support the RAF when needed. Listening to their experiences was incredibly humbling… the commitment required to balance work, family life and military responsibilities is something I have enormous respect for. As an employer that actively supports the Armed Forces Covenant, it was particularly valuable to learn more about the role Reservists play and the skills, experience and dedication they bring to both military and civilian life.
Reflecting on the day
I left RAF Leeming with an even greater appreciation for the people who serve, whether as full-time personnel or Reservists. From fast jets and cutting-edge defence technology to teamwork exercises and personal stories, there was something to learn at every stage of the day.
A huge thank you to everyone at RAF Leeming for making us feel so welcome and for taking the time to share their knowledge and experiences. It was a privilege to be invited and both George and I came away with a huge amount of respect for the people who dedicate their lives to protecting the rest of us.