Career Stories

Claudia’s passion for computer science has taken her from Romania to South Australia, where she leads the Complex Systems research group at the University of Adelaide. Her work in complex systems, cybersecurity, and AI is helping shape the future of SA’s defence technology.

Defence life has taken Amanda Tarrant across the world, from Malaysia to multiple Australian cities, before settling in Adelaide. Now a Project Officer at Veterans SA, she is dedicated to supporting veterans, serving members and their families.

With over 30 years in IT and software development at Microsoft and in the television industry, Stuart now leads software engineering at Lockheed Martin. He drives innovation to enhance Defence technologies, finding fulfillment in projects that protect Australia’s security.

Marc Bryant’s military career spanned multiple continents before he and his family chose South Australia as their home. Now at Saab Australia, he leads major defence projects and supports veterans’ transition into civilian careers.

Jack grew up in the Adelaide Hills with a passion for science and maths, leading him to a career in the defence and space sectors. Now an Electronic Warfare Engineer at Inovor Technologies, he works on enhancing the Royal Australian Navy’s electronic warfare capabilities.

With a passion for maths and physics, Nicola works on radar systems and sovereign hypersonic rocketry. Nicola advocates for women in STEM and encourages others to embrace the vast learning and growth opportunities in the defence industry.

Allan Dias was born in Brazil and, after his father received a job offer, he found himself moving to China during high school. With a fascination for flight and a knock-back from the Brazilian Air Force, Allan had to really consider his future career path. “I was looking for an […]

Hugh, a business management graduate from the University of South Australia, transitioned from marketing to project management within Redarc’s defence team. His role offers the opportunity to collaborate with a variety of stakeholders and experts, fueling his long-term career aspirations in the defence industry.

Sama’s journey from a refugee to a Software Engineer in the defence industry reflects her dedication to both technology and safety.

Growing up with a love for astronomy, Naida turned her dream of working in space into reality by studying Mechatronics and Space Engineering. After joining the Australian Youth Aerospace Association, she saw the growing space ecosystem in South Australia, which led her to relocate.

Karen Hughes, Senior BD Manager at QinetiQ Australia, leads aerospace surveillance projects and champions diversity in STEM. With a background in Computer Science, she transitioned from academia to defence, driving innovation and value for government clients.

Dr Jordan Plotnek’s career soared from Flight Lieutenant in the RAAF to space cyber security expert. Now a Senior Lecturer at UniSA, he helps build cyber resilience in critical infrastructure while shaping the future of space security.

Scott’s Cyber Technology internship at DEWC Services, supported by South Australia’s Defence Industry Scholarship Program, ignited his passion for electronic warfare and IoT security. The experience led to full-time employment, setting him on a path to grow with DEWC’s team of specialists.

Dr. Gretel Png, an electrical engineer with global experience, joined DSTG in 2018. Passionate about space and nuclear-powered submarines, Gretel aims to influence defence’s STEM initiatives while continuing to learn and contribute to South Australia’s tech landscape.

Samantha Santos found her calling in space after witnessing its life-saving impact during natural disasters in the Philippines. Moving to South Australia to pursue a career in the growing space sector, she now works at Deloitte, helping connect space technology with real-world challenges.

Reinaldo, a Senior Procurement and Subcontracts Officer at BAE Systems Australia, supports defence projects with supply and logistics. Originally from Venezuela, he moved to Australia eight years ago, building a career in the defence industry in both Sydney and Adelaide.