Over this time, the program has become recognised as a point of difference for young workers looking for new opportunities, and existing workers looking for an exciting career change.
A unique collaboration between Defence, 'Programmed' recruitment and management, South Metropolitan TAFE, and industry, DIPP brings together like-minded people who have a strong, vested interest in developing career pathways in Defence, to deliver the pipeline of talent that our industry needs.
“Working for a leading defence company gives me the opportunity to contribute to important projects and play a role in ensuring the safety and security of our nation. Knowing that my contributions are making a difference and being part of a team committed to excellence is truly gratifying.”
Sebastian, Storeperson now promoted to Trainee Detail Designer Draftsperson
Importantly, the program continues to receive regular, positive feedback from our customer, including members of the Royal Australian Navy.
Of course, the proof is in the results and we are very inspired by what has been achieved through this program so far:
- More than 23 rotation roles have been offered across all parts of BAE Systems Australia’s Henderson shipyard, including trades, drafting, planning, engineering.
- 12 new recruits have joined BAE Systems Australia in ongoing roles in drafting, engineering, planning and safety, health and environment.
- 3 DIPP graduates have won the WA Training Awards (2022)
- 1 DIPP graduate won the Defence Training Award (2023)
Importantly, this program has also helped to change mindsets within our own leadership. We are becoming much better at developing talent within the business in areas where we would traditionally recruit fully qualified people.
“As SHE Coordinator, I have the opportunity to work with an amazing team in health and safety. I am so appreciative to be able to do this at a positive workplace like BAE Systems, and be supported by great, talented people. I’m excited to grow and expand my career.”
Amelia, SHE Coordinator
It’s great and exciting to see these trainees being giving the opportunity to develop and learn in exciting roles within the Defence industry here at BAE Systems Australia.
DIPP is inclusive of everyone who wants to participate. Programmed recruitment and management work closely with us and other organisations to find opportunities to ensure that all DIPP students were able to be placed.
“My favourite part is the diverse areas of work that I get to perform within my role as a Detailed Design Draftsperson, from modifying original manufacturer drawings to facilitating Quality of Life updates, to creating and modifying new drawings for ship components and systems, to creating drawings to assist production, all whilst getting to perform my role with the support of a great team and a great working environment.”
Cooper, Trainee Detail Designer Draftsperson
“My time here within the Detailed Design (Drafting) team has involved a lot of learning. From learning how to use all the systems and software required to complete my tasks, as well as studying a Diploma of Engineering through TAFE to support my role and further my engineering capabilities. My time within the DIPP program helped me to develop a keen interest in drafting and gave me the opportunity to gain work experience here within BAE Systems and ultimately accept a role in the team. My future goals here at BAE Systems include completing and receiving my Diploma of Engineering and becoming a fully qualified and trained Detail Design Draftsperson.”
Zoe, Trainee Detail Designer
Speaking from personal experience, BAE Systems Australia has also stepped up when needed to help students who were having challenges gaining the right experience at their allocated Industry Partner, with additional opportunities provided at BAE Systems. This reflects the close collaboration of Defence industry across WA – we support each other’s team wherever we can.
BAE Systems Australia is incredibly proud to work alongside CIVMEC, Austal, Babcock, L3Harris amongst other Defence industry partners to recruit, select and support the DIPP students with training, placement, networking opportunities, seeking out best practice and hopefully being a key step in their brilliant career ahead.
“My favourite part of the role is designing critical capabilities that will be used in the Navy now and into the future. I really enjoy working with a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, project managers and Navy personnel to see through a design process from concept to implementation, giving me the enthusiasm to take on more challenges.”
Jack, Trainee Detail Designer Draftsperson
In terms of the future of the program, we are exploring interest to grow this program in other states and territories in Australia, with the latest announcement by the Government committing another $12m to expand it to South Australia.
Defence Industry Pathways Program (DIPP):
The Defence Industry Pathways Program (DIPP) is a 12-month traineeship, providing graduates with exposure to several fields prior to deciding on a maritime defence pathway for the future.
From technical engineering and cybersecurity through to logistics and procurement, graduates earn as they train on-the-job, getting first-hand experience with global leaders. Programmed is proud to support the Australian Government and South Metropolitan TAFE in delivering this innovative program.
