After 40 years of service across both the Australian Defence Force and the Australian Public Service, Dave Wells said it was the people, purpose and commitment to service that made his career so rewarding.

Mr Wells’ Defence journey began when he joined the Australian Army in 1986, inspired by a strong family legacy of military service.

“My father was an Army commando and member of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam, while my mother served in the RAAF and was Australia's first female parachutist, with my father being her instructor,” Mr Wells said.

Military service runs deep in the Wells family, with his great uncle awarded a Military Cross for his actions at Bullecourt during World War I.

“Growing up amongst these stories and the people behind them most likely shaped my internal discipline and way of thinking, and was a clear inspiration to continue the line,” he said.

Following his Army career, Mr Wells transitioned to the APS and now serves as Director Workspace Operations within the Joint Capabilities Group, supporting Defence capability through the delivery of modern digital environments.

'Professionally, I love being a history holder and watching communications environments advance technically across the decades.'

For Mr Wells, the evolution of technology and Defence’s increasing reliance on it continues to be a source of motivation. The opportunity to witness decades of technological advancement has also been one of the highlights of his career.

“Cyber operations are a powerful and essential part of modern warfighting,” he said.

“Professionally, I love being a history holder and watching communications environments advance technically across the decades.”

One career highlight was participating in the 75th Gallipoli commemorations in 1990.

“I took part in a dawn beach landing at Anzac Cove on a LARC-V [lighter, amphibious, resupply, cargo vehicle], stepped ashore in front of international media cameras and stood behind world leaders during the dawn service,” Mr Wells said.

“It was an incredible experience and one I’ll never forget.”

Reflecting on four decades of service spanning military and civilian service, Mr Wells said the greatest reward has been the people he has worked alongside.

“Great memories, great people and a career as rewarding as any I could think of,” he said.

As Defence recognises his 40 years of service, Mr Wells’ career stands as a testament to dedication, adaptability and an enduring commitment to supporting Defence capability.