A career in defence

Contributed by Rodney MacDonald, Senior Systems Sustainment Analyst

Course: Completed the Bachelor of IT (honors) course in 2006 at Deakin University.

As a Senior Systems Sustainment Analyst with DSTO I take a science based approach to problem solving and undertake analysis and research into sustaining air-vehicles in support of the Australian Defence Force. Everyday I am required to call on a number discipline areas such as systems analysis/systems based thinking, modelling, simulation, data mining and reliability analysis. However, I must highlight that although it may sound like I am locked away in laboratory somewhere with only artificial light and no access to the outside world, I assure you that my role is heavily client focused. Consequently, any project outcomes must be communicated directly with the client in the form of written reports and formal presentations. Ultimately, every day I am developing and applying science and technology relating to future planning, acquisition and through-life support of military aircraft engines and airframes, and provide scientific leadership and support essential to the cost-effective operation of military aircraft.

Skills

Although my role is somewhat more obscure than the typical IT graduate, every skill I use today has been taken from my studies. Primarily I use:

• Planning and management skills for project;
• Data mining and data analysis techniques;
• Research skills;
• Report writing skills;
• Critical thinking;
• Communication and presentation skills; and,
• Software engineering using various languages. 

Tips

• For any student wishing to pursue a similar role I would suggest firstly to get yourself a frequent flyer number. The large amount of domestic and international travel I do every month will rack you up heaps of bonuses and free flights to be used for your own holidays!
• But on a serious note, I would say students should work on the communication skills, both written and verbal. Every career will require you to present your ideas in a coherent and succinct way, and this is only a skill that can be developed through repeated practice. Furthermore, work on those less tangible interpersonal skills as all work will have a client and it can only be to your advantage to be on the good side of the people paying for your time.