For 10 selected high school students, a week at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW, offered a unique insight into career pathways for the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Through the Defence Work Experience STEM Immersion Program, they received exclusive access to Defence science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) environments, exploring cutting-edge capabilities and meeting the people shaping Australia's future defence technologies.
Connecting students with ADF, Australian Public Service and Defence industry professionals, the program provided invaluable insight into the diverse and rewarding career opportunities available across Defence.
Students visited several Defence units at RAAF Base Williamtown, including 1 Combat Communications Squadron, where they learned about information technology network operations and cyber-focused roles; 2 Expeditionary Health Squadron, which delivers aviation health support; and the Integrated Training Centre, home to technical training for the F-35A Lightning II aircraft.
Participants also gained insight into air traffic control operations and the critical role they play in supporting military aviation.
'Experiences like getting behind the controls of a Hawk 127 simulator help bring STEM to life and give students an experience they are unlikely to forget.'
In addition to their Defence experience, students met with Defence industry partners to explore career opportunities beyond military service.
Representatives from BAE Systems Australia showcased their work supporting the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter program and software engineering projects, while Boeing Defence Australia provided insight into engineering support for the E-7A Wedgetail aircraft.
Lockheed Martin Australia also highlighted its engineering and technical support roles associated with the F-35A Lightning II fleet.
Director of Youth Policy and Programs David Atkins said programs like this help students connect what they learn in the classroom with real-world opportunities.
"These programs provide students with direct access to people working in STEM fields and the opportunity to learn more about the education and career pathways available to them," Mr Atkins said.
"We want young people to see the range of opportunities that exist and better understand how the STEM skills they are developing today can open doors in the future."
For many participants, the experience revealed STEM career pathways they were previously unaware of and highlighted the variety of opportunities available across the Defence sector.
"Experiences like getting behind the controls of a Hawk 127 simulator help bring STEM to life and give students an experience they are unlikely to forget," Mr Atkins said.
As demand for STEM professionals continues to grow, initiatives such as the Defence Work Experience Program play an important role in connecting young Australians with meaningful and rewarding career pathways that contribute to Defence's future capability.
For more information on Defence Work Experience programs, visit www.defenceyouth.gov.au
