24 May 2024
Women from a variety of backgrounds had the unique opportunity to engage with the Air Force at RAAF Base Williamtown in Newcastle.
The Women in Aviation Program gave young Australian women an immersive experience of life in the Air Force, allowing them to explore various roles firsthand.
Participants were given a behind-the-scenes look at the operations of the Air Force fire station, gaining insights into the critical role played by the firefighters in supporting air operations and ensuring the safety of personnel.
They tried on bomb suits, which are worn by explosive ordnance disposal technicians. This hands-on experience provided a glimpse into the specialised equipment and training required for such critical roles.
The women also had the opportunity to test their piloting skills using a flight simulator, to experience the challenges faced by Air Force pilots in the skies.
This interactive session allowed participants to experience the thrill of flying while gaining an understanding of the technical skills and precision required in aviation.
The program underscores Air Force’s commitment to growing a skilled and diverse workforce, recognising the invaluable contributions that women can make across the variety of careers within the service.
'Events like this play a crucial role in showcasing the opportunities available in the Air Force and encouraging more women to consider careers in aviation and Defence.'
Squadron Leader Catherine Humphries, who coordinated the event, emphasised the importance of diversity in the Air Force.
"We are actively working towards creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of our society," Squadron Leader Humphries said.
"Events like this play a crucial role in showcasing the opportunities available in the Air Force and encouraging more women to consider careers in aviation and Defence."
The event received consistent positive feedback from participants, with many expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to learn more about the Air Force and explore potential career paths.
As Air Force continues to evolve and adapt to meet the challenges of modern warfare, initiatives like these are essential in attracting and retaining talent from diverse backgrounds.
By encouraging women to explore careers in aviation, the Air Force is taking proactive steps towards building a stronger, more inclusive future for Australia's Defence Force.
'[The women in aviation program] is very helpful and has pushed me outside my comfort zone to challenge my weaknesses and has improved them … a great time and experience – I loved the program.'
Sixteen-year-old Madison Barradeen from Newcastle had a birds-eye opportunity to see career opportunities in aviation.
“I felt that wearing the uniform and using the equipment made me get a feel of Air Force life," Ms Barradeen said.
"Air Force is seeking a diverse workforce so that there is a wide range of people with a high variety of skills.
“I noticed that the equipment and aircraft were very technical in most areas and very high quality. It was similar to what I envisioned.
“[The women in aviation program] is very helpful and has pushed me outside my comfort zone to challenge my weaknesses and has improved them ... a great time and experience – I loved the program.”
Ye Eun Choi from Greystanes, NSW, enjoyed learning about the variety of roles and mateship of the program.
“My favourite aspects were making new friends … interactive talks throughout the program … and walking into real workspaces,” Ms Choi said.
“Encountering people's different experiences and why, how, and when they transferred into their specific jobs was pretty cool to hear."
