Defence offers a variety of opportunities for career development and building on experience, and Air Commodore Paul Pettigrew is proof of what is possible.
Joining the Air Force in 1988 as an F/A-18 Hornet fighter pilot, Air Commodore Pettigrew later moved into the role of instructor. He said Air Force empowered aviators to reach their potential.
After 12 years as a pilot, Air Commodore Pettigrew took his career in a new direction, one that allowed him to explore a different side of his skills and interests.
"I have not always been full-time within Air Force. To meet wider family obligations, I decided to start my own business operating data centres providing autonomous software, cloud computing and cyber-resilience AI capabilities," he said.
This is an example of the Total Workforce System in action.
Using the skills and knowledge he gained through his own business, Air Commodore Pettigrew returned to full-time service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in 2020. He is now Commander of both Defence Strategic Communications Branch and Joint Force Cyber Component, within Joint Capabilities Group.
'Defence provides the environment, resources and conditions for you to make a genuine difference.'
One of the aspects Air Commodore Pettigrew values most about Defence is the opportunity to work alongside passionate and dedicated colleagues. He also highlights the mentoring culture within the ADF.
"One of my favourite things about the ADF is the mentoring opportunities across all generations and ranks on the value proposition of cyber power," he said.
"I am proud to be able to advance the recognition and maturation of the cyber domain. Together, as an integrated force, we are normalising the operational employment of coherent cyber power to meet Australia's national objectives."
Air Commodore Pettigrew's path to this current role reflects the diverse opportunities, career development and sense of purpose that Defence offers its people.
"We have highly skilled Australians doing cyber-related degrees and master's in their 30s through to their 50s, and they are seeking an opportunity through the Australian Public Service or ADF Reserves to be a part of our mission," he said.
To those interested in a career in Defence, Air Commodore Pettigrew offers this advice: "Defence provides the environment, resources and conditions for you to make a genuine difference."
To find out how you can build your best career, visit Defence Jobs & Careers.
Learn more about Defence Benefits and Conditions of Service, and what is available to ADF members and their families, here.
