As a Marine Technician, Ty was stationed on HMAS Kanimbla and HMAS Choules and in 2010 participated in Exercise RIMPAC - the world’s largest international marine warfare exercise that’s held every two years off Hawaii.
Ty has also helped provide humanitarian aid to Indonesia and Papua New Guinea and disposed of explosive ordnance as part of Operation Render Safe and border protection activities during his naval career.
However, the first 18 months of civilian life after Ty returned home to Australia were anything but smooth sailing.
“I found transitioning from the Australian Defence Force to civilian life quite challenging,” he said. “I had to learn to transpose the skills I learned in the ADF into my new situation.”
After leaving his first job and taking three months off, Ty took on a role as Technical Writer for BAE Systems Australia on a 12 month contract. He returned to the company three and a half years later and is now an Integrated Logistic Support Engineering Change Officer, working on the Hobart-class destroyer (DDG) sustainment program.
“For anyone in the ADF looking to transition into civilian life, I highly recommend joining BAE as there are many opportunities and resources to help veterans find the job they want,” Ty said.
“I returned to the company because I was offered a great opportunity with a supportive team and a flexible working arrangement.
“Without the nine day fortnight, I would not have had the time to complete my Diploma in Project Management at TAFE NSW.”
Ty is passionate about helping veteran organisations and said participating in the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay is a “once in a lifetime opportunity.”
“I am excited about carrying the torch to help raise donations for widows and children who have lost their loved ones due to active service,” he said.
“It is an amazing opportunity to represent BAE Systems Australia and the ADF veteran community.”
BAE Systems Australia supports Legacy and Ty agrees this is crucial to building rapport with veterans working across the company.