Students step out of classroom to learn
Future Navy engineers have been putting their knowledge to the test, completing work experience alongside some of the service’s most qualified personnel.
CAPTION: Director General Engineering – Navy Commodore Rachel Durbin speaks with Midshipman Jarad Barber at Campbell Park Offices in Canberra.
Ten Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) students recently completed a six-week placement program with the Navy Engineering Branch to further develop their skills outside the classroom.
Third-year engineering student Midshipman Jarad Barber said it was the first time he and many of his fellow students were able to put their theoretical knowledge into practice.
“I spent a lot of time working in the recoverability and survivability cell, essentially trying to expand the capability of the landing helicopter dock ships by providing enhanced firefighting capability,” Midshipman Barber said.
“It made what I’m studying feel more real and helped contextualise that what I’ve been doing at university isn’t just limited to the classroom.”
Navy Engineering Branch provides specialist naval engineering advice and services to a range of Defence organisations, including Navy and the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group.
During their placement, each student helped experienced engineers problem-solve, make decisions and gained an insight into how Navy engineering contributes to capability.
“Having spent time in the branch, I think it’s critical for people to understand where it all comes from and the decision-making process for our systems,” Midshipman Barber said.
“I’ve seen there is so much more that goes into making the Navy what it is.”
CAPTION: Navy engineering students from the Australian Defence Force Academy who completed work experience with Navy Engineering Branch at Campbell Park Offices in Canberra.
Head of Navy Engineering Branch Director General Engineering – Navy Commodore Rachel Durbin said supporting young engineers was crucial to Navy’s growth and success.
“These students are the future of Navy’s fleet, shipbuilding program and industry,” Commodore Durbin said.
“They will be making the big decisions in the years to come.
“We have to nurture their development early on and give them as many learning opportunities as possible.
“Navy Engineering Branch has some incredible engineers, with a wealth of knowledge and I am extremely proud we support, and have a positive impact on, the younger generation.”
The students are back at ADFA working towards gaining their engineering degrees.
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