
-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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