Great opportunity for those leaving the forces!
Pros
Good training Opens doors to fantastic career opportunities far exceeding military pay Good pay for ex-forces Good learning environment through training Good support through training from ex-forces team Travel expenses covered during training If you are leaving the forces definitely give FDM a look. It won't be for everyone but many will gain something from it. Especially if you've not been promoted or are leaving a low-skilled trade, this is an opportunity you want to at least look into. FDM were at both career days I went to through CTP and run regular insight days for ex-forces/those doing resettlement and have multiple training streams available. The skills you learn through training and during the first 2 years with the client are valuable. I am nearing the end of my initial 2 year contract with FDM and although I don't yet know what I'll be doing next year I have many avenues which I can pursue. Most importantly I look back to where I would be and what I'd be doing had I stayed in the army and FDM has definitely provided me with a platform from which to push myself far beyond where I would be now if I were still in the army. For sergeants upwards (potentially senior corporal as well I believe if you can demonstrate a certain level of command) you can do the advanced route and become project managers which is not available to those leaving junior positions.
Cons
Unpaid initial training period until you secure a placement Poor salary for university graduates Geo-flex The 3 months of unpaid training can be difficult however timed correctly it can be managed. You don't get paid until you finish training/secure a job but can subsidise this with termination leave whilst still receiving your military salary. University graduates are paid far less than ex forces and could be brought more inline to be competitive with other graduate programs. Geo-flex is more of an issue for university grads, I have heard the company will be more relaxed with this for those leaving service as they are aware we have served away from home for periods and potentially want a more settled life. That said if you want a job in Colchester/Bristol/Cardiff/Nottingham/(any area really) - and no where else you'll probably not get what you're looking for. Jobs are mainly centred around London/Leeds/Glasgow in my experience. I did move away again after my training but happily accepted the interview in full knowledge I'd potentially live away from my preferred region.
