Ross served for 22 years as an Engineering Technician and left as a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer earlier this year.

Originally from Luton, he came to Lincolnshire after his career in the RAF saw him posted to RAF Coningsby in 2000.

Ross said on his new appointment: “I have always wanted to teach as I see it as such a satisfying role.

“My work within strength and conditioning coaching and tutoring really set me up on the path to develop the academic side of my teaching.

“I don’t think you can beat that feeling of knowing you have supported a group of learners to achieve their own aims and targets.”

His last tour was at RAF Coningsby within the Typhoon Training Facility where he was responsible for the management and provision of technical training to Phase 3 engineering personnel employed on the Typhoon Fast Jet Platform.

Ross also received a commendation in the Queen’s New Year Honours List of 2017 for his work within the Facility.

As the College welcomes its new Air & Defence Career College Lead it says goodbye to its first, Richard Thornhill MBE.

Ross said: “It’s going to be a tough challenge stepping into the shoes of Richie, he’s done such an amazing job of developing the course from nothing to what it’s become today.

“He’s been invaluable in helping me settle in and I can’t thank him enough for all of his support.

Richard Thornhill MBE said: “It's been a pleasure and privilege to develop and bring into operation the concept of Air & Defence Career Colleges over the last two years.

“The Colleges offer young men and women with aspirations for a career in the aerospace sector and the Royal Air Force an ideal opportunity to gain the necessary skills to achieve their dreams.

“The concept has now established credibility with our supporting partners to the extent that two further colleges have been opened this month at New College Stamford and College of West Anglia.

“As I transition into my new role supporting and expanding the A&DCC concept, I'm confident that Ross will undoubtedly bring a new and fresh approach to further-develop this exciting concept.

“Ross has a dynamic engineering and sports conditioning skill set that will ensure the A&DCC continues to go from strength to strength.”

It’s not too late to apply to start studying this month with us, so if you’re interested in finding out more about our Air & Defence Career College or any other courses you can contact us via email on enquiries@lincolncollege.ac.uk or call 030 030 32435.