The Linguist is a languages magazine for professional linguists, translators, interpreters, language professionals, language teachers, trainers, students and academics with articles on translation, interpreting, business, government, technology
Issue link: https://thelinguist.uberflip.com/i/1056743
FEATURES @Linguist_CIOL DECEMBER/JANUARY The Linguist 9 WORK TOGETHER Troops run towards a Whirlwind HAR.10 helicopter (top); a successful operation may be dependent on the work of an Intelligence Analyst (Linguist) (above) A day in the life My role as an Intelligence Analyst (Linguist) is to intercept, translate and analyse foreign signals. The information is passed up the chain of command and distributed throughout the British Armed Forces to ensure both military units and individuals can safely carry out their roles. I work shifts, which can be stimulating and busy, but knowing that what you're doing has a direct impact on military operations makes it very satisfying. Using modern technology and software, I interpret foreign communications daily in order to determine which information is of intelligence interest and to pass it quickly to the relevant military leaders. I am looking forward to learning more languages throughout my career, and getting involved in different operational theatres. Being in the RAF is not all about my core role. I have been given opportunities to take part in adventure training and sporting events, and recently spent a week skiing in the French Alps. My professional development has also seen me complete leadership, IT and fitness courses. Joining the Intelligence Analyst trade has inspired my passion for languages, while allowing me to stay fit and active. Challenges and developments There are several challenges for the RAF in recruiting and training Int An (L) personnel. The demand for military linguists has grown exponentially in recent years following Government direction to bolster military intelligence personnel numbers. This has tested the RAF's ability to recruit more personnel at a faster pace. Given the classified nature of the work, it is difficult to advertise the Int An (L) trade and make it accessible to the public. In order to improve recruitment, and the information available to the public, a specialist recruitment team was set up to combat these challenges. As part of its new initiative programme, a video was created for social media showing the training and work of an Int An (L). It has received praise for its fresh insight into RAF roles. Steps have also been taken to reduce the time it takes for candidates to progress through the recruitment process. Candidates are required to pass a Modern Languages Aptitude Test in order to prove their ability to learn a language in a short time period. They can now take this test in their local Armed Forces Careers Office before deciding which role may be right for them, giving them a clear indication of their suitability to be a linguist. This measure has made it easier for the RAF to find the best people for each role. It also allows a higher volume of people to attempt the test without any pressure to apply beforehand. For those interested in joining as a linguist after their higher education studies, the RAF has introduced a bursary scheme for students doing a languages BA. We pay a contribution towards tuition fees and candidates join the RAF as linguists after completing their degrees. This initiative has been put in place to attract candidates with a language interest and capability, allowing the RAF to hone their skills and passion for languages. The future The demand for RAF linguists is set to grow over the next decade, along with the expectations we place on our talented personnel. The Specialist Recruitment Team will continue to create new initiatives to advertise the RAF brand and intelligence roles, including activity schemes for people to have first-hand experience of the job before they apply. The training of RAF linguists will continue to evolve and adapt depending on operational requirements, changing the languages taught and the types of applied training we offer. This opens the door for the continued professional development of our dedicated and multi-talented linguist personnel. Visit ciol.org.uk/rafpartnership for more information. * The author's name has been withheld for security reasons. © MOD