Alex has always been passionate about communication, studied science and arts at uni, and now works for the Defence Intelligence Organisation!
We picked his brain about his unique STEM + Defence journey…
CwS: Why Defence and why STEM?
A: It offered the chance to work in both my areas of interest from university: physics and international relations. At university, I thought starting work meant choosing one or the other, but working at Defence has allowed me to maintain both specialties in my daily job. I don’t have the penchant for lab work or academia, but I love the challenge of converting complex STEM information into something that others
can understand, appreciate and use in their own lives.
CwS: What does your job involve?
A: On an average day, I usually find myself reading (anything from short articles to books), analysing
data, writing and discussing complex questions with my colleagues. I often have the chance to facilitate meetings, mentor new staff and organise social events.
CwS: Best thing about your job?
A: I’m constantly given opportunities to learn and upskill. In addition to usual on-the-job training, I am lucky enough to participate in overseas training, language classes, a book club and short university courses on a regular basis.
CwS: Tell us about something surprising you’ve done in your role!
A: I spent a few weeks at sea on a Royal Australian Navy vessel. When I started work at Defence, I never expected to find myself doing a PT session in the gym on board a Navy warship at 5am.
CwS: What advice would you give to young people considering a STEM career?
A: Seek out people who work in the field you’re interested in and ask for their advice. Don’t be afraid of taking up people’s time; as a new starter, you’re seen as an asset worthy of time and investment, not a burden. In my experience, even a 15-minute chat over coffee can open doors you didn’t know existed.
Alex’s path to becoming a Technical Intelligence Analyst at DIO
- Bachelor of Science (Physics and Geography) / Bachelor of Arts (International Relations)
- Technical intelligence analyst, DIO
This profile originally appeared in Issue 3 of Careers with STEM: Defence issue and is sponsored by Defence.
Find more stories of STEM careers in Defence here.
