Jessica

STEM Cadetship Program - Land Systems Division
Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering

“Seeing the work I have contributed to get signed off and used in projects is amazing. I have experienced testing, tours, and life as a Defence civilian.”

I’m an engineering student currently undertaking the Defence STEM Cadetship Program. Next year, I’m moving into the Graduate Program’s Technical pathway. I applied for the Program to get more experience in my field, and graduate with a deeper understanding of the ‘real world’.

I’ve enjoyed the Program so far. Seeing the work I have contributed to get signed off and used in projects is amazing. I’ve experienced testing, tours, and life as a Defence civilian.

Being part of a Program like this is important for STEM students. It’s allowed me to explore my options while studying, and gain a deeper understanding of what I might like to do after university.

This Program and my experience has enabled me to gain a position in the Graduate Program. There, I will experience 3 amazing rotations, and potentially have a permanent full-time position at the end.

I encourage future Graduates not to be afraid to ask questions and take every opportunity to learn and grow.

Dylan

STEM Cadetship Program - Land Systems Division
Bachelor of Biomedical Engineering

“The Program has been extremely beneficial for my engineering proficiency and has given me the best foundation for my career.”

I applied for the STEM Cadetship Program to experience life beyond university.

I’ve loved my time with the Defence and have been fortunate to work on an exciting project that’s constantly evolving. I’ve learned so much through this experience and built a strong network across Defence.

I’ve had great insights into a range of engineering principles and the Program provides a safe space to learn, make mistakes, and grow.

It’s been extremely beneficial for my engineering proficiency and has given me the best foundation for my career that I could’ve hoped for. I found it most surprising how self-driven the Program is. It truly is what you make of it.

I want to continue working for the Defence, and constantly evolve my roles and capabilities to push myself further. I’ve already been applying for jobs at the higher APS levels to extend my responsibility and increase my growth potential.

The Program has given me the flexibility to work as much as possible around my university commitments. I would highly recommend this to anyone fortunate enough to receive this opportunity. It truly is what you make of it, the more time you put into it, the more you will get out.

Elysia

STEM Cadetship Program - Research Technology and Operations Division
Bachelor of Games and Interactivity/Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)  

“I am inspired by DSTG’s meaningful work opportunities and wonderful innovation-inspired and interpersonal culture.”

I had some invaluable experience through the Industry Experience Placement in 2022, and after this I was encouraged to apply for the STEM Cadetship Program. I’ve since been inspired by DSTG’s meaningful opportunities available and the innovative and friendly culture.

I was amazed by how welcoming the team was, and how much professional and technical knowledge I gained in such a short time. This set me up for a purposeful career in my dream field. My work area encourages learning on the job which has been a big highlight of my experience.

Alongside my knowledge and experience in software, I’ve now learned the hardware side of computing and how both combine to support Defence’s research. My knowledge in 3D modelling and game engine skills from my Games studies and software development from my Computer Science degree have been invaluable throughout this experience.

My supervisor is dedicated to helping me grow and I’ve even had the opportunity to travel interstate for a conference. I really enjoy working and getting to know my team, and I’m excited about my upcoming project.

Working at Defence instils behaviours and values such as integrity and being aware of our professional responsibilities and security procedures. This is very valuable for a successful career as a trusted professional in the public service.

This Program has highlighted the importance of stepping outside of your comfort zone. I’ve learnt to always aim for experiences that may seem outside your reach or comfort zone. This only unlocks new career opportunities we may not have thought possible.

My experience at Defence has inspired me to advocate for STEM career pathways. I encourage others to explore their passion for tech. You’ll learn how your skills are transferrable in scientific research and Defence industry contexts, which is an exciting revelation. These programs have encouraged my curiosity and to follow a path of lifelong learning. I hope others can find the same fulfilment in their studies and careers.

You will surprise yourself with your ability and initiative, and remember, your team is rooting for you!

Aashka

Soldier Modernisation Systems Program Office, Integrated Soldier Systems Branch, CASG, Industry Based Learning Undergraduate Program
Bachelor of Business Information Technology (Professional)

“The ability to study at university and learn theory, while simultaneously applying it throughout the Program has been so valuable.”

I’m part of the Industry Based Learning (IBL Undergraduate) Program. I was attracted to this Program for the range of experiences it offers. I’ve developed my project management and logistics skills while building networks with key stakeholders. The ability to study at university and learn theory, while simultaneously applying it throughout the Program has been so valuable.

The Program has been very rewarding. I love what I do because it’s exactly what I’m studying! I let my team know that I’m majoring in Business Technology, and they provide me with training opportunities to upskill in the relevant project software. I’m constantly learning and growing from the experiences my team provides for me.

I was really surprised by the flexibility of the Program. I can tailor my work methods and hours to what works for me. The IBL Program doesn’t discriminate the work standards between ongoing APS employees and undergraduates. This makes the work environment even more fulfilling.

I would 100% recommend this Program to other students considering entering the workforce. It is so important to have industry practice knowledge while studying. I get to learn everything I want and am accepted by my colleagues. Because of my placement experience, my grades at university have improved.

Throughout my career, I see myself rising up to be a successful Project Manager. This Program has allowed me to collaborate and network with a variety of Project Managers and immerse myself in project operations. Equipped with this knowledge, I’m confident I’ll be hired after my degree and bring industry skills to my next role.

My supervisor always tells me to train and upskill as much as possible. My advice to other graduates would be to utilise your resources and try everything. Even if you don’t like it in the end, there is no consequence, it’s all a learning process. Take advantage of the materials you get and don’t stop growing!

Renee

Technical pathway ,Data and Information Law, General Counsel Defence, Defence Legal Branch
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Psychological Science, Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice

“I was very grateful for Defence’s openness and receptiveness to graduates, I was able to engage in interesting and enriching work from day one.”

I applied for Defence’s Graduate Program to engage in interesting and impactful work, and for the diverse range of projects.

Defence Legal is like a law firm because it gives you the opportunity to explore a broad range of legal areas. This aligned with my desire to get diverse legal experience and expertise across multiple areas of law.

I completed the Graduate Program in mid-2023, and since then, I have been practising as a lawyer in Defence Legal which I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. I work with a collaborative team and learn from senior lawyers, which allows me to continuously expand my skill set.

I was surprised by how quickly the 18-month Program flew by. I was grateful for Defence’s openness and receptiveness to graduates. I engaged with interesting and enriching work from day one.

Being part of a Program like the Defence Graduate Program is important because it offers the chance to explore various areas within Defence. This exposure helped me to deepen my understanding of Defence while identifying my interests and strengths. It’s a valuable opportunity for both personal and professional growth.

One piece of advice I would give to a future graduate is to embrace every opportunity to learn and network. Engage with your colleagues, seek feedback, and be open to exploring different areas at Defence. This will help you to enhance your skills and discover your passions and strengths.

This experience showed me that I can build a fulfilling career at Defence from the many diverse opportunities available.

Symon

Technical pathway, Remote and Autonomous Systems Cell, Navy Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

“The Program offers flexibility to choose how you’d like to shape your career and experience.”

The Graduate Program has been fantastic! I’m currently working in the Civilian Engineering Development Program (CEDP) on my second rotation.

The rotations I’ve experienced provide a mix of systems engineering work and technical engineering practice like Software Development. The CEDP Program offers a wide range of exposure to become a more knowledgeable and skilled engineer. This is important to shape future leaders for Defence. It’s also given me more in-depth experience in the technical DNE Group.

The Program has flexibility to choose how you can shape your career and experiences. There are so many opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge. It’s helped me learn more about other Defence Groups like CASG, NSSG, GWEO, and DST, and industry partners.

The work culture and environment is relaxed, and offers a good amount of meaningful work.

I encourage future grads to reach out to as many people as you can, build connections. You’re only a graduate for 12 months, so take as many opportunities as possible to learn new things.

The Graduate Program is a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself professionally at Defence while having the flexibility of rotating between different areas. I now have solid foundations in both technical and soft engineering skills so I can transition smoothly into my future role.