For our “Meet the Team” series, we spoke to one of our newest colleagues, Control Room Operator Rachel Stirling. She talked us through what brought her to Corps Monitoring and where she wants her role to take her.

When did you join Corps and what did your career look like before joining?

I joined Corps at the beginning of September, so I am new to the job, but it came at the right time. Previously, I worked in CCTV for the railways for nine years, so I have a background in monitoring. I’d left my previous job to care for my brother, but after he was moved into a new home, it was time for me to get back to work, and the Corps ad popped up.

I really enjoyed my previous role in rail, but I struggled with stress and working alone so frequently. I’ve often gone for more unconventional roles, including a bus driver and train driver for a yard. I like a challenge, so I often pick jobs that aren’t “ordinary,” and that’s what drew me to Corps.

What has your career at Corps been like so far?

This role keeps me busy; between calls and checking alarms at each site, I have a lot to do throughout the day. There is a huge people-focus too, and it’s interesting speaking to so many people across the UK every day. I’m getting more used to the different ways people speak and understanding how we can help each person’s needs. That’s what makes the job exciting, not every day is the same.

I’m very keen to learn, so our team lead Robert Thomson has had me train on all of our different desks to help me understand how our different sites and accounts operate. I’m always asking questions and curious to know more, which is why Robert told me I have potential.

This really touched me. Before Corps, I tried to be a train driver but failed my final test by two marks, which used up my only two attempts allowed. It really knocked my confidence, but the encouragement I receive here is making a big difference. I’m being told I’d make a good supervisor, which isn’t feedback I’ve had at work before.

Why did you join the team?

I originally got the job because it aligned with my CCTV experience. I was applying to another role, to work as an aircraft dispatcher, which I was actually offered. But I knew I wanted to work at Corps after seeing my own potential here and its benefits. I have a strict rule that I need to enjoy my work and wake up feeling excited to get to the office, and that’s what I have here.

The shifts at Corps really work for me. I do four days on and four days off, so I can spend time with my family and friends. I really like my team, too. There are six of us at the office, so if you’re struggling, there’s always someone there to help, and they really do want to help.

Why is remote monitoring important today, and how is it evolving?

Surveillance is pivotal to stopping crime in both private and residential areas. Homes are people’s safe places, so it’s incredibly important that we look after them, even all the way from Glasgow.

I’m newer to the industry, but I can see how AI is changing the way technology is evolving, and it is interesting exploring how that streamlines monitoring operations. We already use advanced equipment, with motion detection and thermal imaging cameras, as well as night vision and drone deployments. It’s all about seeing what the next invention will be and adapting to it.

How have things at Corps changed since you joined, and are there any changes on the horizon?

I haven’t spent a long time at Corps, but my team is great, and I can feel my confidence building. Robert has planted the seed of working up to a supervisor level. Honestly, I didn’t think that was an option for me, but knowing now that it’s possible has been great for my growth and confidence.

I also enjoy helping others, so I’d love to train new colleagues in the future. It always feels good watching others work and knowing that you contributed to their successes. Pushing for more women in security positions would also be very fulfilling. I have often been the only woman in previous jobs, so I want to encourage women that they don’t need to follow stereotypical careers.

Right now, I’m learning about Corps as I go, really. It’s been great exploring my new position, getting to know my team and the different roles at Corps Monitoring, and even understanding our military history, down to why we pronounce Corps the way we do! I’ve never worked for a company that notices their employee’s progression and achievements the way that Corps does. It feels really good to be acknowledged and valued, and I thoroughly look forward to progressing more.

If you are interested in working with our monitoring team, please contact us to discuss your needs.