A University PhD student, who is also an adult volunteer from the Air Training Corps in Loughborough, is wearing his military uniform to work today (Wednesday 26 June) as part of Uniform to Work Day.

Pilot Officer Simon Howroyd, aged 25, is based in the Department of Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering and is studying the implementation of hydrogen fuel cells in small unmanned aircraft.  He spends his spare time training young people who are part of 2229 (Loughborough) Squadron Air Training Corps.

Uniform to Work Day takes place every year in the run up to Armed Forces Day.  It is a chance for men and women who are either part of our Reserve or Cadet forces to hang up their regular civilian work clothes and wear their military uniforms into work, celebrating the roles they play within our communities and raise awareness about the forthcoming Armed Forces Day.

Simon joined 145 (Altrincham and Hale) Squadron in 2001 and served with them for six years. After starting university he moved to 203 (Loughborough) Transport Squadron Royal Logistic Corps and served with them for six years also. Towards the end of 2012 he was awarded a commission with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserves (Training) and is now based at the 2229 (Loughborough) Squadron Air Training Corps.

He decided to wear his uniform into work to raise awareness about the range of opportunities offered in the Air Training Corps for young people. For example, Air Cadets have the potential to learn field craft, flying and drill as well as having the chance to study towards a B-TEC qualification, Duke of Edinburgh Award and take part in a variety of adventure training and sports based activities.

Simon said: “I take part in Uniform to Work Day every year but this is the first time I will be wearing my military clothes into work as a commissioned officer so it is particularly special to me. Loughborough University is really supportive of my Air Training Corps responsibilities and is more than happy for me to wear my uniform into work for the day.

“I currently hold the rank of Pilot Officer and am  the Training Officer at the squadron. I am also proudly part of the regional Skill at Arms Training Team. Being an adult volunteer is really rewarding. Seeing cadets progress through the ranks, learn new skills, increase in confidence and become happy members of our community is great.”

Professor Rui Chen is Simon’s academic supervisor at the University. He said: “Simon is progressing well with his PhD research. He always shows dedication to his work and tries to progress to the best of his ability. I think his military experience supports his work at the University in a positive way.”

−ENDS−