Securing a future in defence industry: How GradX shapes tomorrow’s leaders

Today, he’s a success story of Raytheon Australia’s GradX program, a fast track for university graduates into defence technology careers.

With several of his family members having served or serving in the Australian Defence Force, Higgins saw Raytheon Australia as a way he could develop a challenging and rewarding career and make a contribution to defence.

“The defence technologies are inherently more interesting and challenging from an engineering perspective,” said Higgins.

Through mentoring, internships, and a promise of full-time employment, GradX offers final-year university students an early gateway into the competitive defence industry. It's a platform where they can sharpen their professional, technical and leadership skills.

The program offers final-year students a head start, providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to excel in the fast-paced world of defence technology.

A diversity of talent and disciplines

Higgins isn’t alone in his enthusiasm. GradX attracts students from various fields, all keen on applying their skills to an industry that demands innovation, technology, and a commitment to national service.

“Within a year, other teams were approaching me to do designs and execute drawings,” said Higgins, crediting his accelerated learning to his mentor's guidance.

David Culpin, Raytheon Australia's technical director for Space and Mission Systems, also recognises the program’s mutual benefits. “As a mentor for GradX I can say the program is a win-win for all of us. High-performing candidates bring unique ideas and innovative problem-solving skills, boosting team effectiveness,” Culpin said.

Navigating the defence industry with mentorship and training

 Another graduate, Rachael Whitford, followed a path similar to Higgins’. With a background in mechatronic engineering, Whitford viewed GradX as a logical next step.

“There are exciting opportunities in the defence industry, regardless of your engineering discipline,” she said.

Whitford praised the comprehensive training she received, which included everything from software certifications to leadership courses. “The company has really cared about what my interests are and what I wanted to do,” Whitford said.

Aimee Mettke, a cybersecurity analyst from Adelaide, viewed GradX as her entrance into a diverse and constantly evolving field. “I knew the work would be diverse and challenging, with always something new to learn,” Mettke said.

Mettke, who has a strong interest in network security, values the program's educational focus. “I can inform others about how to protect themselves in the digital landscape,” she said. The mentorship aspect, she adds, has been invaluable in guiding her career path.

Don’t miss the deadline

 Applications for the 2024 GradX program are open until Oct. 2, 2023. The program is inclusive, inviting applicants from a wide range of disciplines — from engineering and IT to finance and program management. Upon completion of their degrees, all graduates are assured a full-time role with Raytheon Australia.

So, if you're in your second last year of university and want to make an impact in defence industry, remember, the GradX application deadline is Monday, Oct. 2, 2023.