Ex-military ‘jumps back into civilian life’ to graduate with a first-class degree

Jack Fenwick, BSc Architectural Design & Technology graduate, was supported through the Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS), which provides funding for professional development following military service, allowing him to continue his education at the University of Salford.

With the opportunity for funded professional development, Jack’s decision to settle in one place and complete a degree came naturally.

Jack said: “I reached a point where I wanted to think more about my long-term career and personal development beyond the Army. After moving around so often, university felt like the right opportunity to focus on a new direction and build towards the future.”

Having developed an interest in graphic communication both at school and whilst in the army, Jack was immediately drawn to Architectural Design & Technology. The course offered a balance between the technical problem-solving skills he had developed in the military and the creative elements he had enjoyed in previous studies.

During his military career, Jack served as an Ammunition Technician in both Cheshire and Essex, working as part of the Army’s technical specialists in ammunition safety, explosive ordnance disposal and bomb disposal. His role included the inspection, management and safe handling of ammunition and explosive materials, as well as supporting technical surveys for guided missile firings. He also completed a six-month tour of Northern Ireland in 2021, where his team supported police operations across the country.

Reflecting on his journey from the military into civilian life and higher education, Jack said the transition was a significant adjustment.

He said: “It’s a big transition, jumping back into civilian life and education. In the military, there is a very clear rank structure, and everyone understands where they fit within it. Civilian life is different. Without that clear structure around you, you have to redefine who you are and find your own direction, which is not always as straightforward as it may seem after spending years in the services.

“It was definitely a culture shock at first jumping back into education, but studying at Salford helped make that transition smoother. The course gave me a new focus and direction, and the support from tutors and those around me helped me build confidence in a completely different field. I also had a little girl arrive at the start of my final year, so it was a very hectic but rewarding period.”

Alongside his studies, Jack worked part-time in practice, gaining valuable industry experience while completing his degree. He was introduced to Amentum through Jamie Jobson, an ex-Royal Marine at the company, and was supported by Amentum’s Service Leaver Pathway (SLP), which helps former service personnel transition into civilian careers.

Jack has now secured a full-time role with Amentum, based in Warrington, and plans to continue with the company following graduation.