Sergeant registers a first

SGT Rebecca Gibbons at work.

Photo by LAC Euan Grant

THE RAAF School of Technical Training (RAAFSTT) has graduated the first female systems technician since the introduction of the course in the early 1980s.

Sergeant Rebecca Gibbons originally chose the CETECH mustering because she was keen on electronics and data communications, however she decided she wanted a personal challenge in her career and as a result switched to the SYSTECH mustering.

SGT Gibbons applied for systems technician training and was accepted to complete an Advanced Diploma via civil schooling. After she completed the diploma she was placed on 1/2004 SYSTECH course, which ran for 13 weeks at RAAFSTT, RAAF Base Wagga.

Since graduation, SGT Gibbons has been employed in Software Data Processing Section within Ground Telecommunication Electronics System Program Offi ce (GTESPO).

She said all the SYSTECH course lessons on project management came fl ooding back to her in the control of computer software upgrades to the Control and Reporting Units.

GTESPO also tasks SGT Gibbons with research into incorporating new software, network design and baseline confi gurations. “The SYSTECH course really helped in my progression to this level of work. It’s the best career decision I’ve made,” she said.

“If you want to broaden your technician experience then become a Systems Technician. Whether female or male, the whole remuster process revolves around your desire to further your career and expand your knowledge.

If you need a greater challenge than your current job – and want to show the boys what you’re really made of – then SYSTECH is the way to go.”

Systems technician training is open to CETECH, AVTECH, and ATECH musterings.

A successful applicant will undertake civil schooling to obtain an Advanced Diploma (related to base trade) and on completion will be placed on the SYSTECH course at RAAFSTT.

Civil Schooling will not be necessary if the applicant already has a trade-related Advanced Diploma or equivalent.

Inquiries can be directed to Flight Sergeant Bruce Rasmussen on (02) 6937 4890 or bruce.rasmussen@defence.gov.au.

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