An Cosantóir

14 The modern com- munication space has many advan- tages; however, it is crowded, and in an era of short news bites, it can be hard for detailed con- versation and facts to make an impact. The host of the 'Making a living' podcast, Brendan Fitzgerald recently featured a deep dive into a career in the Navy with the TRRRC, and it can be found by follow- ing the QR code here. Future podcasts are being explored in order to create a useful online resource and answer the more frequent questions candidates have. A range of booklets for each trade which are currently open to the direct entry candidates will soon be available from DF websites, so potential candi- dates are urged to follow DF announce- ments on social media. Physical copies will be made available as the TRRRC begins a series of visits to schools, col- leges, and universities, as well as open days and various career days throughout 2022. BE MORE WITH THE NAVAL SERVICE enlist at the rank of Leading Hand, which is the most junior non-commissioned officer rank. Their training pathways vary between 42 and 48 weeks. A DE MEO is commissioned as an officer, and they also undertake an induction course, and a posting at sea as an understudy must be completed prior to their assumption of full responsibility for an engineering department as a ships MEO. All induct- ees must complete several mandatory marine safety training courses such as marine damage control & firefighting, and sea survival. LtCdr Niamh Ní Fhatharta, the recruit- ment lead for the TRRRC says that "We need to provide for the operational ca- pabilities of the Naval Service by filling technical appointments in the Naval Service." As Marine Engineer of twenty years' service, she feels that "The Na- val Service is an employer who offers a unique experience in a challenging envi- ronment, with significant opportunities for personal development through a di- verse range of technical specialist roles at sea." One of the challenges faced by the TRRRC is the difficulty in communi- cating just how rewarding, varied, and interesting life in service can be. Warrant Officer Brian Attridge, the Senior Enlisted Leader of the Marine Engineering Branch, and who himself joined the Navy via direct entry in 1991, when he changed careers from the petroleum industry, says that he would recommend joining the Navy to any potential candidates as there are, "…so many avenues open to you. There is a vast range of personal, professional, and military development opportunities available." Read all about it. The TRRRC is also engaged in efforts to improve how the Navy communicates what is on offer to potential candidates. Becoming a Navy Diver is possible for all ranks, including Direct Entry personnel. Explore a TRRRC 'Making a Living' Podcast here.

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