How did you get to your current job position? 

I started working with Northrop Grumman on a contract before I graduated. When I graduated, I was offered a full-time role as a systems engineer. I’ve been a systems engineer here for five years. I chose this specialization as I really like to look at the big picture and see how everything links together. I love to solve problems and enjoy how we are part of the whole process from start to finish.

What does your employer do?

Northrop Grumman is proud of its established relationship with the Commonwealth of Australia and is committed to enhancing its business and geographic footprint in the country. We have a strong customer base in Australia and have been supporting a variety of defence and civil programs for more than 20 years.

As a leading provider and integrator of autonomous, C4ISR, cyber, logistics and strike systems and solutions, Northrop Grumman works with Australia’s Defence Force to ensure border and Pacific-region security and mission success.

Northrop Grumman is deeply committed to growing its investment in Australia through partnerships and acquisitions. In addition to Qantas Defence Services (now Northrop Grumman Australia – Technology Services), Northrop Grumman acquired M5 Network Security (now Australian Intelligence & Cyber Solutions), a Canberra-based provider of cybersecurity and secure mobile communications.

What are your areas of responsibility?

I am a systems engineer and, at the moment, the scrum master of my team. My day-to-day responsibilities include guiding and facilitating the team in their day-to-day tasks. I organize and facilitate meetings, help my team stay focused on their work by removing blockers, and act as the point of contact for our team. I keep our task management tool up to date and work with others to set up and report on the schedule.

What do you love the most about your job?

I really love the project and people I am working with at the moment. I feel the project will really help people in the future with their day-to-day work. 

Do you have to work on weekends? 

I have set very clear boundaries in terms of my workdays and hours. If I need to work outside of that, it is rare and only for a very specific reason.

Do you bear a lot of responsibility? Are stress levels high?

In terms of stress levels, I have a lot of work and responsibilities that I need to achieve/uphold. If this becomes too much, I have very clear communication with my manager and project manager.

What three pieces of advice would you give to a current student? 

• Try to get an internship or work experience in an area you are interested in while you are studying. 
• Find something you really enjoy doing and turn it into a career.
• You can choose how you feel each day.