Career Stories

Harrison turned his childhood dream of working in space into reality, combining his passion for engineering and sustainability to tackle the challenge of space debris.

Matthew discovered his passion for defence during a scholarship with Defence, Science & Technology Group, realising he didn’t need to join the Defence Force to make an impact.

Shantanu turned his childhood dream of flying into a successful aerospace and defence career. With a degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the University of Adelaide, he now leads sustainment projects for the Collins Class Submarine and contributes to the Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessels at ASC.

Imelda’s unconventional career path, spanning Biomedical Science, retail banking, and consulting at PwC, has led her to a thriving role in the defence and space industries. Now with Fleet Space Technologies, she drives space exploration while applying her skills to defence and mining projects.

A natural talent for maths and physics saw Janet Wilson excel in engineering, rising to the top of her class and forging a global career in structural analysis. Her journey proves that with the right skills and determination, the possibilities in the defence industry are infinite.

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, fuelling 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.