From working on construction sites to maintaining mission critical safety systems, Leading Aircraftwoman Naomi Galloway applied her skills in Thailand as part of Exercise Thai Boomerang 2025.
Born in Tasmania, Leading Aircraftwoman Galloway spent the first nine years of her life there before moving to Queensland. Spending the majority of her life in Jimboomba, the Beaudesert State High School graduate went on to become a trade painter for 10 years before she'd had enough and desired a change.
"I knew someone who was once a life support technician and after they outlined what it was, I had a look on the ADF Careers website. It seemed interesting and I liked the idea of working with aircrew, as well as the hands-on nature of the job," Leading Aircraftwoman Galloway said.
As an aviation survival equipment technician (also known as a life support technician), Leading Aircraftwoman Galloway ensures safety equipment on board state-of-the-art aircraft is maintained and in working order to keep pilots and aircrew safe.
Joining in 2023, the thirty-four-year-old mother of two is the first in her family to serve, posting to RAAF Base Amberley's 1 Squadron after finishing her training.
"It's really good. We have a great team and a great culture here at the squadron. I've had a fantastic time," Leading Aircraftwoman Galloway said.
Her second overseas deployment, Exercise Thai Boomerang 2025, is a bilateral exercise between the Royal Thai Air Force and the RAAF. In its 15th iteration, she deployed with 1 Squadron and up to six F/A-18F Super Hornets.
But despite the periods away from home, Leading Aircraftwoman Galloway said the work-life balance and travel opportunities are her favourite aspects of being in the Air Force.
"I get to spend more quality time with my children and have the opportunity to have time off during school holidays - something I've never been able to enjoy. I also get the opportunity to see some amazing places. I've had the chance to go to Hawaii and all around Australia," she said.
When asked if she had advice for anyone thinking of joining the Air Force, Leading Aircraftwoman Galloway encouraged them to go for it: "Take the plunge, get out of your comfort zone and do something different."
Make your impact and find out more about the aviation survival equipment technician role here.
