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OnTarget
  July 2007 \\ Back to current issue index

AnneMaria Vahlman

-What branch of engineering are you qualified in?
BE (Aerospace Avionics)

-Where did you study and how long did it take you to complete your degree?
QLD University of Technology, a 4 yr degree

-What made you choose engineering? Was it something that you had always wanted to do? Did you consider any other areas of study?
I considered science, but engineering had always interested me more. I had always preferred the practical application of science that engineering offered, rather than just doing science alone. Plus, I am fascinated by how technology works.

-What distinctive characteristics do you think a female engineer might bring to a task or project?
I believe women are supposed to have good communications skills and better people skills, which is helpful when working in a team environment.

-Where are you working at the moment? What aspects of your current duties do you like/dislike?
I'm working in AIR 9000 at Victoria Barracks, Brisbane. I'm the Ground Mission Management engineer. The project is procuring a GMM system from Thales Australia, who are based in Perth, to support the MRH 90 aircraft in preparing, conducting and debriefing for missions.
I enjoy the variety in the work, as I need to cover a large scope of work. I dislike the fact that I can't get as much into the details as I would like on specific topics of concern as there just isn't the time for it.

-Where would you like to go with your career in the future?
I'd like to get some more experience in Aircraft sustainment.

-Have you found DMO to be a supportive and positive work environment as a female engineer?
Yes

-What do you think would encourage more females to consider an engineering degree/career?
I don't believe it is a case of encouraging more women into the job. It is a case of encouraging people, male or female, who would be suited to engineering considering the profession. But it wouldn't hurt if engineers could shake off the perceived 'nerd' stereotype that we seem to have gained. It would be nice if engineers in movies were seen more as the 'sexy intelligent' type rather than as the mad scientist with bad personal skills. Engineering is a satisfying and rewarding career, but it isn't perceived that way by the general community.

-What do you find most challenging about your job?
Managing my time and workload.

-Do you have any pet hates about your job?
The travel between the East Coast and Perth, which takes at least half a day each way.

-If you could have picked any other profession what would it be and why?
IT. I like to program.

-Would you recommend a career in engineering to other women? Why/why not?
Yes I would, but only if they have an interest in maths/science. It is a very satisfying career path.

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