A Defence Australian Public Service member who created the Air Force and Air and Space Power Centre’s first podcast was recognised in the 2025 Women in Defence Awards.

Cass Bowers, a member of the Air and Space Power Centre, was a finalist in the Marketing and Communications category of the awards, hosted by Australian Defence Magazine. 

The podcast, Hangar 46, explores air power through educational and societal lenses. 

Recognising a need to reach audiences differently, Ms Bowers taught herself podcast production, secured funding and built a studio.

Last year, Ms Bowers recorded, edited and released 23 episodes, often working long hours to ensure quality and reach. 

She took the podcast on the road, recording from Exercise Pitch Black in Darwin. 

Originally aimed at internal audiences, Hangar 46 now has a 4.7- to 5-star rating across platforms, has been featured in Spotify’s Australia top 50 educational podcasts charts, debuting at No. 16 and getting as high as No. 6 in 2025.

Ms Bowers also created the Clear to Launch program, connecting junior aviators with senior leaders. 

Its highlight, Pitch Fest, gives juniors a platform to present ideas directly to decision-makers, helping bridge the gap between ranks. 

'It helps get important messages out, supports members in their careers, and – most importantly – gives them a voice.'

Ms Bowers’ favourite part of the role is helping empower aviators to engage in further military education.

“We’ve seen the difference it makes when we offer alternate ways to learn about air power and the broader Defence organisation,” she said.

“It helps get important messages out, supports members in their careers, and – most importantly – gives them a voice.”

Ms Bowers’ nomination credited her creativity, courage and commitment to modernising Defence communication.

She said being named a finalist helped dispel a layer of imposter syndrome – especially knowing her former bosses led the nomination.

“Finding out that two of my biggest role models – who are incredible women I look up to and have learnt so much from – were the ones to lead the nomination just absolutely floored me,” Ms Bowers said.

“It gave me such a confidence and motivation boost. I could sit back, feel really good, and think: okay, what can I do next? Let’s crack on.”

Ms Bowers has also contributed to the broader Defence community, volunteering for the Veterans Instameet on Anzac Day, supporting free portrait photography for current and ex-serving members and their families.