Flight Sergeant Scott Toomer
Job role: Weapon Systems Operator (Crewman)

Joined the RAF: February 1988

Overseas travel: Germany, Falkland Islands

‘After completing initial training was posted to RAF Lyneham onto the C130K with 24 Sqn. After 1 tour moved to the Wessex helicopter with 72 Sqn at RAF Aldergrove. Again after 1 tour, moved to the Chinook helicopter, initially at RAF Laarbruch Germany then at RAF Odiham with No 18 (B) Sqn. Then followed 1 year on the VC10 at RAF Brize Norton with No 10 Sqn regaining fixed wing experience before a posting to 55(R) Sqn at RAF Cranwell to instruct on the ALM school.

‘After 3 years (including 4 months in the Falkland Islands) a move back to VC10's on both 10 and 101 Sqn's happened for 1 tour before returning to RAFC Cranwell to take up the post of Hd of the NCALT.’

Web Chat session with Flight Sergeant Scott Toomer - Wednesday 19 March 2008

2000Silverstars: What advice could you give someone thinking of joinig the RAF?

Scott Toomer: Prepare yourself as best as you possibly can. Think very carefully about what you want to do. And when you go through the interview always tell the truth. If you don't know the answer just say you don't know. The RAF isn't looking for robots. They're looking for people who have an interest and an argument about the world. We want people who think on their feet. And that's what you should do in the interview.

Cpl Rose 2318 Sqn ATC: Do you have to have 20/20 vision to be a WSO?

Scott Toomer: No. Eyesight requirements are +2 to -3. (Basically an optician will tell you!) An optician will test your eyes and tell you what they are. You're obviously need to have good overall eyesight. And unless you're looking at being a linguist, you can't be colourblind.

Cadet Sergeant Joe Frankel: Hi Scott, what section of the RAF are you in?

Scott Toomer: I am a weapons systems operator (crewman). Although there are three other roles within the WSOp cadre.

Wurzel: What does your particular role entail?

Scott Toomer: As a WSOp (crewman) I'm in charge of looking after all the freight, passengers, weight and balance, and loading and restraint of both fixed wing and rotary aircraft. The job also involves looking after the weapons systems, managing the aircraft systems and navigation. You could be looking after a couple of troops or anything up to 260.

CalG: hi im currently in the middle of the selection process and i have my selection interview in two weeks, im wondering if you had any sort fo training tips you could give me?

Scott Toomer: Learn as much as you can about both the RAF and how we fit in to the general world picture. You will always be asked questions on current affairs. So make sure you have a good understanding of what is happening in the world. And how we could have shaped any events that have happened in the last 5 or 6 years. My best piece of advice is to be yourself, be honest, and as relaxed as possible.

Jake: what is most rewarding about the RAF?

Scott Toomer: The opportunity to travel is a fantastic one. And obviously the pay is great too. But the best part is working alongside some of the most challenging and rewarding individuals you'll meet! I have friends who I've met since joining the RAF that I know that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Cadet Sergeant Joe Frankel 1083 ...: What RAF Station are you currently based at and did you study at RAFC Cranwell?

Scott Toomer: I'm currently serving at RAF college Cranwell. But have only been here for the last 2 months. I did my training at a place called RAF Finningley (near Doncaster). Where the aircrew training was based before it moved here.

Riggers: Did you join up straight as aircrew, or did you join as an airmen and transfer over?

Scott Toomer: I came in as a direct entrant aircrew at the age of 19, having done a few part time jobs while waiting for my application to be processed. About 60% of the candidates we have in the WSOp branch come straight in from the civillian world. With 40% being from the armed services.

Olie: did you specific for crewman from the outset, if not, how does the WSOp streaming process work?

Scott Toomer: When I first joined you applied to join a particular trade in my case - crewman. The new system means that you enter training as a WSOp and are streamed at the end of the generic course. Now this may sound like you can't join in the trade you wish, however, the system does allow you if you're not streamed to do your first choice, to re-train at a later date in to something you'd rather do.

AJ: Afternoon scot. Just adding too the above question. As a weapon system operator crewan do u get to control any of the flight controls? Just wondering of examples of your role whilst your in the air?

Scott Toomer: Although we don't physically have any input to flying the aircraft on normal sorties (flights), we clearly need to have an understanding of what to do in an emergency. Hopefully this will never be used, but while training here at Cranwell - our students are taught all the responsibilities of being a co-pilot. So that if the need arises they can assist the flight deck crew in the safe operation of the aircraft.

ali: how long is the training all together. and do you get to get a parachute badge.

Scott Toomer: Very much depends on which role you end up being streamed. The shortest period of time for you to finally come out of training on the squadron is about a year. This of course very much depends on any delays in training or personal circumstances. As for a particular badge, we are awarded the WSOp BREVET (single wing unlike the pilots who have two wings) and this is the same for all aircrew trades except pilot.

petemc: can you tell me what the minimum length of a spell is. As i am currently considering my options and very interested in the RAF but wanted more information of what happens if you join and realise it is not for you?

Scott Toomer: While in training, if you decide that this career path is not for you - you do have the option to withdraw from training. Once you've graduated and been awarded your BREVET (see above), then there is a minimum return of service required. I can't tell you exactly, but if you contact your local AFCO (or look on the website www.rafcareers.com) that should help you.

Octavia: Good Afternoon Scott. Hope you are well. Why did you go for WSOp over WSO? Or is that what you were offered? Also was WSOp your first choice? Did you have any others? Thank you.

Scott Toomer: Hi Octavia I'm good thanks. My first choice when I joined the RAF 20 years ago was as a pilot. Unfortunately I didn't pass the apptitude test but was invited back the following year if I wanted to. At the same time, I was also informed about being a WSOp. And having looked in to what the role entailed I was hooked! So I suppose although it wasn't my first choice, it was the next best thing as far as I was concerned!

Adam: Why did you join the RAF over the other branches of the Armed Forces?

Scott Toomer: For a start my father was in the airforce. So it was a way of life I was used to and knew well. I also love the idea of flying and to me the RAF was the most obvious choice to fulfill the ambition. And I certainly haven't been dissapointed. Each branch of the armed forces has something special to offer everyone. But for me, the RAF was the only one I wished to join.

jack.g: hi. i was wondering about the fact that you move around quite a bit while in the raf. is this hard as you must make quite a few friends at one base and then move on to another having to start over. also what sort of things can you do in your spare time if your living on base

Scott Toomer: Yes you can move around. And I've been very lucky to have served on several different stations. But in the aircrew world, this isn't always necessarily the case. The friends you meet - no matter where you go, will always be your friends. So it is never an issue catching up or seeing each other. As for the type of things you can do - well you name it and it probably happens here! We have excellent sports facilities, clubs ranging from pottery to music to on this station - gliding! And all points in between. So you should never find yourself bored on any base.

Will: How does the rank system work once you have trained to be a pilot Scott?

Scott Toomer: I'm not actually a pilot Will! But to try and answer your question - a pilot is a trade and depending on your qualifications on entering the RAF, depends on your starting rank. Once you reach the rank of Flight Lftnt, promotion from that point onwards is on merit. So various factors are taken in to consideration. Such as what else you do outside the RAF and promotion boards.

AJ: You state your first choice when you applied was to become a pilot. Is there an opportunity to change career paths after joining. Could you train to become a pilot now?

Scott Toomer: Yes there is. The upper age limit for joining as a pilot as a direct entrant, is 23. However, as a weapons systems operator, you can apply to transfer to be a pilot up to the age of about 30. This takes in to consideration your experience in the air, and the fact that you've been in the service.

Jake: How does your life in the RAF affect your civilian one??

Scott Toomer: I don't consider the two to be mutually exclusive! It sounds like an old cliche, but being in the RAF isn't just a job - it is a way of life. Yes there are times when I'll work roles can get in the way of things we wish to do outside of the service, but that's the life you choose to lead. And sometimes things happen. That being said, it doesn't happen that often. And I do feel that I've gained much more in to my life by being in the RAF.

macca: Where's your favourite place you've visited with the RAF?

Scott Toomer: Macca, there are so many great places, it's a little difficult to choose one. For instance in this last year, I've been to Canada three or four times. America 8 or 9 times, and had a week in Malaysia. The most amazing place this year though, was when I did an exercise in India which allowed me the opportunity to visit the Taj Mahal. (One of the most amazing not just buildings, but sites I've ever seen!)

L/CPL Hill: have you ever been poster to an area of engagement

Scott Toomer: Yes. By the nature of the fact I've spent a large part of my career on hellicopters - our main role is to support the army. So whereever they go - we will go!

CalG: i see your father was in the RAF too, so was mine and my grand father and has always been a main part of my family, was that a main reason you wanted to be part of the RAF and to be a pilot?

Scott Toomer: Clearly with my father being in the airforce, it was a way of life that I was very used to. That being said, my father was very adamant that I only take up a job that I really wanted to do. I think this helped me make my decision. Because I was never pushed and only offered nothing but support. The great way of life I'd been brought up with seemed the best thing for me.

Cpl Rose 2318 Sqn ATC: What Rank do you enter as when applying for WSO?

Scott Toomer: When you first join and go through training, you are a cadet like eveybody else. On graduation, from the non-commisioned aircrew initial training course you graduate as a senior NCO. (Sergeant). Although this is an acting rank, until you've completed all of your training, you're still expected to act and hold yourself as if you've had the rank for many years.

Jake: can you dicide what wing/sqn/region or posting ????

Scott Toomer: You will always be given an opportunity to put down where you would like to go. Now this usually means choosing what aircraft you'd like to fly on. But sometimes some people do wish to go to a particular squadron or base. We do try and send our people to their first choice. However, you must understand, that this isn't always possible. But one of the benefits of being a Weapons Systems Operator, is the amount of choice there is out there. So if you are dissapointed, don't despair! The way the system works, could mean, that like me you could end up flying on a large amount of aircraft and never ever get bored!

Annabel: How long did it take you to reach Flt Sgt once you had finished your training?

Scott Toomer: I entered under the old system Annabel. Which meant that it usually took 11 and half years to reach the rank of Flight Sgt. Nowadays, the system has changed. So if you show your potential, and maintain that, it is possible for you to be promoted after only 5 years as a substansive Sgt.

macca: what's your ambition within the RAF?

Scott Toomer: My main ambition, is to gain promotion to Master Aircrew. I've been lucky enough to fulfill most of my dreams (visiting places, getting my initial promotion), So this is the next step up for me. That being said, I can safely say that I am extremely happy with the way my life is at the moment. So promotion for me, would just be the icing on the cake.

Cadet Sergeant Joe Frankel 1083 ...: Hi Scott! Is there any work experience available at an RAF Base where you can work closely with pilots and/or WSOp's?

Scott Toomer: I don't know (sorry!) I don't know personally of any work experience opportunities. However I'm sure that if you were to contact any squadron and explain to them that you're interested in being a WSOp or a pilot, they will be delighted to talk to you and maybe get you over to see what they do.

macca: scott hi - whats it like looking after upto 260 troops - do they all do as you tell them?

Scott Toomer: Like controlling any large group of people things don't necessarily always go the way you want. However, one of the things we try and teach our students, is to be positive, and confidant. And hopefully, by being this those people who you are looking after, will listen to what you say and act accordingly.

O'Reilly1461;ATC: Im going and a camp on the 29th of march very soon to RAF Lynham what do you think i should ask my CO to take us to go and see, becasue he said anything you think will be worth while looking at cdts we will try an arrange it. Could you tell me somethnig good to go and see or learn about :D

Scott Toomer: It very much depends on what you're interested in. Obviously Lyneham is the home of the Hercules force (both K and J). And they were always interesting to look around. If you can, try and get yourself over to the J school. And have a look at their simulator facilities there - which are state of the art. And gives you a good insight in to the training of aircrew at Lyneham. Failing that, the station is one of the largest bases in the RAF. So hopefully you should be able to find any number of things to stimulate you!

AJ: From looking at the website most recreational clubs are for sports. My hobbie is flying; I am holder of a PPL and flying reguarly. Would there be an opportunity to fly in my spare time if I joined the RAF? ?Do any of the bases have flying clubs. If so is there an opportunity to gain extra licenses to add to PPL.

Scott Toomer: I've just arrived from RAF Brize Norton, where they have an exceptionally large and busy flying club. Clearly, you need to be on a base with an airfield. But most of these do have their own flying clubs. As for flying in your spare time, there is nothing to say that you can't continue with your hobby. Indeed the airforce likes to encourage all of us to have interests outside the sevice. And if you can combine your love of flying with your day job I can't think of a better way to spend your life.

JOE: what helicopters have you worked on?

Scott Toomer: The first helicopter I flew on Joe, was the Wessex. I did two years flying on this aircraft before I was posted on to the Chinook helicopter. I spent about six years on the Chinook. And it was some of the most demanding and rewarding flying I've ever experienced.

ali: what part do you play when deployed to war zones

Scott Toomer: Whether I'm deployed to a war zone or flying in the United Kingdom, my role doesn't change. I'm responsible for the safe operation of any equipment and systems within my remit. So location doesn't really come in to the equation. Clearly operational areas do add some extra responsibilities to my role, but these are generally only to do with safety.

Olie: as a crewman, Id expect you have a very strong back and torso. do you train specifically for this or just natural to the job?

Scott Toomer: You do have to keep yourself physically fit to be a member of any of the Armed Forces. And as a crewman it can be a physically demandiing job. I do try and stay as fit as I can. And although I'm still reasonably fit, recovery time these days takes longer. There's no specific training, but if you were looking at this as a career, a good overall fitness level is essential.

dsatti: When applying to the RAF what part of the application would you say is the toughest?

Scott Toomer: The biggest and toughest part is probably the initial decision that you want to join the RAF. You do need to be committed to this way of life. So getting over that initial hurdle is probably the biggest decision you have to make. From that point, it very much depends on which branch you're going to. For instance, if you were joining as an Officer or Aircrew, the selection procedure here at RAF Cranwell, can be quite daunting. They will test your mental ability, your knowlege of world affairs, and your ability to lead a team. This being said, as long as you are yourself you have taken time to study what's going on in the world, and you're enthusiasm is apparent, you should have no major problems.

Annabel: Are you deployed on operation on a regular basis- i.e. Iraq, Afgahnistan etc

Scott Toomer: Personally yes. I think it's safe to say, that everybody in the RAF these days can be deployed at any point. That's not to say that we are, but you must remember that we are a military service and every person within the RAF has a part to play. Some trades may find themselves deployed more often than others, and it very much depends on world events as to where we go and the frequency of those deployments.

JOE: have you ever worked on operations with the Regiment Scott?

Scott Toomer: Yes Joe I have, on many occasions. I've always found them to be a fantastic group to go away with.

O'Reilly1461;ATC: Were you ever in any form of Cadets? If so, what cdts and if it was Air what Sqn?

Scott Toomer: Unfortunately I never had the opportunity to be in the Cadets (as I lived overseas quite a lot). However a lot of my friends were in the cadets before joining up and they've all told me that not only do they have a great time, but it did help them during their initial training.

Randomread: How do your family and friends feel about you being in RAF and travelling all over the place?

Scott Toomer: My immediate family are incredibly proud. (Father former RAF). And all my closest friends I've met since joining up so we all have a very similar background.

Scott Toomer: Thanks for all the questions it's been great talking to you all!

Views expressed during the web chats are those of individuals and do not necessarily reflect RAF policy.