This program is a HunterNet Career Connections initiative that connects young women across the Hunter region with real-world industry experience.
It’s supported through the Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) program which connects employers with secondary schools across New South Wales.
The program provides insight into the breadth of careers that support aviation from engineering and maintenance through to avionics, structures and operational support.
Hands-on learning at TAFE NSW Tighes Hill introduces these disciplines and builds an understanding of how each contributes to aircraft sustainment and capability.
Visiting the heart of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) operations in Williamtown, New South Wales, participants gained first-hand exposure to aircraft sustainment operations within a leading defence aviation environment.
Tours of our facilities and the RAAF Williamtown base provided opportunities to engage with apprentices, engineers and technical specialists, building awareness of the diverse roles across the sector and the pathways into them.
One student reflected on a long-standing aspiration to join the RAAF, and how the experience reinforced a passion for working with aircraft and hands-on problem solving.
“I have always wanted to join the RAAF, following in my father's footsteps. Ever since, I have loved building things, especially fixing cars with my dad.”
“The highlight of my experience was most definitely going to BAE Systems and seeing the F-35s and Hawks up close.”
“One thing that surprised me was that I didn’t realise how many different paths there are in aviation, especially that avionics is separate from mechanical.”
For another student, the experience challenged assumptions about career in aviation, particularly the diversity of people and pathways within the industry.
One thing that surprised me was how many different careers contribute to the aviation industry and how the field is becoming more diverse, with more women entering both operational and leadership roles.Flying Her Future participant
“I had often felt overwhelmed by stereotypes surrounding aviation, so seeing successful women thriving in these positions was incredibly empowering.”
“I also learned that career paths are rarely linear and that every experience can add value, which showed me there are many pathways into aviation. As a young person hoping to enter such a competitive industry, this was both reassuring and inspiring.”
Our partnership with HunterNet Career Connections continues to play an important role in building the future workforce for Australia’s aviation industry.
Programs like Flying Her Future are supporting the development of a skilled, diverse and future-ready workforce, while helping more young Australians see themselves in aviation and defence careers.