What’s your job?

I’m based at Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service headquarters. I'm an outreach officer. I make links with the community so we can provide a better service to the public.

Qualifications

I started A-levels but didn’t finish them. I joined the RAF instead and what I learned there helped a lot when I joined the fire and rescue service.

How did you get started in this job?

When I was young, I saw some friends of mine rescued from their house by the fire service and it left an impression on me. I thought that was the type of job I would like to do because I wanted to turn a situation in which I was helpless into a situation where I could help people.

Best thing about your job

Working somewhere that I am able to help people and make links with the local community. Meeting new people and challenging myself – or being challenged.

Top tips

Think about groups you can join that might give you experience or skills in the area you are looking to go into – like the RAF or Air Cadets.

For careers advice in all parts of the UK visit: National Careers Service (England), nidirect (Northern Ireland), My World of Work (Scotland) and Careers Wales (Wales).