Growing up in a military family, Wing Commander Renee Burke was familiar with the unique lifestyle that came with serving in the ADF.
Her father served in the Army but, while that experience shaped her understanding of service, she chose her own path after high school - studying Applied Science and beginning her career in civilian roles.
But something was missing.
"I felt like I needed something more," she said.
"I visited an ADF recruitment centre in Adelaide and explored the Air Force roles available. The team explained I was suited to several positions, but the personnel capability officer role stood out. It offered a genuine sense of purpose and was strategically aligned with enabling the Air Force to achieve its mission."
That decision changed everything.
Today, Wing Commander Burke reflects on the opportunities she's had in Defence and how they have exceeded anything she expected from a civilian career.
"I've had so many amazing experiences and I've been posted all over the country," she said.
"One of my favourite roles was serving as Aide-de-Camp to [then-Governor General] Quentin Bryce. Being her personal military support person was an incredible experience."
'It's the job satisfaction, the teams I work with, the leadership and the career opportunities. And, honestly, the job security is a bonus too.'
Wing Commander Burke said Defence's commitment to its people has been central to her career growth. Eligible members receive funding for study, and she used that support to continue her professional development.
"I completed my master's in strategic people management through the Australian Defence Force Academy and was supported throughout the course," she said.
"That study allowed me to apply change management and organisational behaviour strategies to effect people capability."
Although she was initially drawn to the Air Force for its human resources specialist roles, Wing Commander Burke said she stayed for much more.
"It's the job satisfaction, the teams I work with, the leadership and the career opportunities. And, honestly, the job security is a bonus too," she said.
Working in personnel capability has given her a career filled with purpose, people and connection.
"The reason I still work for Defence is a mixture of purpose and people - we all share similar goals and motivation," she said.
"It's great to connect with people in a positive culture. You just want to come to work."
