After five years as an Avionics Technician in the RAF, Jacob Lucas found himself at a turning point. He enjoyed the pace and challenge of military life, but it no longer worked for his family.
It was time for a change. He needed structure, opportunity, and a job that aligned with life at home.
“It wasn’t fitting our needs anymore. I knew I had to make the jump.”
Military Background: Precision, Pressure, and Pride
Jacob’s military career began with 18 months of technical training, followed by three years maintaining A400 aircraft at RAF Brize Norton. He thrived in a high-stakes environment where the smallest error could mean serious consequences.
“Teamwork, initiative, working under pressure. That was the foundation. You just get on with it.”
He knew he wanted to stay in engineering but needed help understanding how his experience would carry over to the civilian world.
Transitioning at Speed
Jacob left the military and was lucky enough to land a role that started just a week after he left the RAF.
“I left on a Friday and started at Honeywell on the Monday. No time to overthink it.”
That timeline might sound intense, but it wasn’t down to chance. With the right guidance and support, he was able to move quickly and confidently into his next chapter.
How Redeployable Helped
Jacob connected with Redeployable through LinkedIn while exploring his options. Within a few short weeks, he was scheduled for an assessment day with Honeywell.
- Matched to the Right Role - We identified a Level 4 Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) apprenticeship that used Jacob’s engineering background and offered a strong development path.
- Introduced to the Right People - No black hole of job applications. No chasing replies. Jacob was invited straight into an assessment centre with Honeywell’s team.
“From the start, there was no pressure. Just conversations over coffee, getting to know the team and the company. That’s what made it stand out for me.”
- Guided Through the Process Jacob wasn’t left to figure it out alone. With Suzie and Henry from Redeployable on site, he had familiar faces and real support throughout the assessment day.
“They took the pressure off. You weren’t alone in it.”
Why Honeywell?
At first, Jacob hadn’t even heard of Honeywell. Once he started digging into the company, he quickly realised it was exactly the kind of opportunity he had been hoping for.
“They’re huge but low-key. It’s a global company working across aerospace, energy, and systems. I just thought I want to be a part of that.”
A New Career with Momentum
Today, Jacob is a BMS Engineer in Honeywell’s Midlands field service team. He’s building his career while completing a Level 4 apprenticeship and learning directly from a team of experienced engineers.
“I’ve already come on leaps since January. The team is solid, talented and supportive. It reminds me of the military.”
He values Honeywell’s structured onboarding and their understanding of veterans. The culture has made his transition feel purposeful and supported.
“They don’t expect you to know everything on day one. You’re there to learn. That makes a big difference.”
Applying Military Skills in a New Context
Jacob uses the skills he developed in the RAF every day. From safety planning and fault finding to preparation and teamwork, his training continues to serve him well.
“Planning, preparation, safety. It all comes from basic training. I use it every day.”
His advice for others thinking about their next move is simple.
“There are loads of jobs out there. But don’t waste time with companies that don’t get veterans. Find the ones that do. And get the right people in your corner.”
Find Your Next Mission
Jacob’s journey proves that the right support can make all the difference. You do not have to spend months second-guessing your next move. You just need someone to help open the right door.
👉 Get your free personalised career match in minutes. Your next mission starts here.
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