Sarah Barrett, from St Aloysius College, Cronulla, attended the Air Force's Women in Aviation Program, during May at RAAF Base Williamtown in NSW, and is urging others to apply.
The Women in Aviation Program provides young women, ranging in age from 15 to 24, with an insight into the exciting aviation and technical careers the Air Force offers.
It is a four-day program where participants experience firsthand the day-to-day routine of an Air Force Base, and have the opportunity to see military aviation roles firsthand.
When asked what was her favourite part of the program, Sarah highlighted the engagement with current serving members.
"My favourite part of the program was the diverse experience with lots of exposure to many different roles and hearing about the roles which I never knew existed," Sarah said.
"Hearing about other women and their roles, and seeing them in their roles, inspired me."
Sarah and the other participants got up-close and personal with a Pilatus PC-21 aircraft, and learnt about Air Battle Management and the E-7A Wedgetail.
'Hearing about other women and their roles, and seeing them in their roles, inspired me.'
They observed the talents of the military working dogs and their handlers, were taken through a physical training session at the base gym, observed Hawk 127 aircraft on take-off and landing at the Air Traffic Control Tower and more.
"The equipment is incredible and being able to try on things or watch demonstrations, allows us to imagine ourselves in these roles, which really motivates and inspires," Sarah said.
Sarah felt she learnt a lot from the experience, and encouraged other young women to apply for the experience.
"I learnt about the Gap Year program, lots about aircraft, about the many roles, I learnt some life admin, and a lot about myself and what I want to be," she said.
"I would definitely encourage other young women to apply for the program. It is so empowering to see, meet, chat with and be supported by amazing women in the Air Force.
"I feel so inspired, and more motivated than ever to follow my dreams and enlist."
