"I really enjoyed the experience; in a work context it was very good to work with children, it was very rewarding."
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)
João Gomes
Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work
My name is João Gomes, and I studied at Lusófona University - Porto University Centre. I currently work at CFMTFA, which is the Military and Technical Training Centre of the Air Force. At the moment, my rank is Second Lieutenant.
At the time, when I enrolled in the course, my goal was to work with young people and children. During my degree, we completed two professional internships. I really enjoyed the experience; in a work context it was very good to work with children, it was very rewarding.
When I finished university, the roles we had, focused on children and young people, were not ambitious enough for what I was looking for. So, I worked in another field. During that time, through the Air Force’s marketing processes, I saw an advertisement announcing vacancies for social work positions in the Air Force.
My work in the Air Force focuses on promoting social well-being within the organisation. We have guidelines and regulations related to parental support. We also carry out tobacco control initiatives.
We are responsible officers, ensuring that everyone remains sober, essentially. We cannot have armed individuals under the influence of alcohol within a military unit. I also work at CFMTFA, the Military and Technical Training Centre of the Air Force.
We regularly organise talks for trainees, particularly on topics such as harassment. We also deliver sessions on nutrition, in collaboration with the Health Centre. It is a multidisciplinary team working together, not only to support the trainees but also the military personnel assigned there.
At the moment, I am completing my contract, with five years remaining. If possible, I would like to continue in the Air Force and pursue a master’s degree.
Right now, I am happy. I feel fulfilled and motivated to achieve more. When I feel that is no longer the case, I will m





