Officer Cadet Stephanie Skinner grew up in Tasmania, flying with her father and hearing stories of his service in Air Force.
Recipient of the Chief of Air Force Award, Officer Cadet Skinner was recognised for her leadership and academic and military achievement at the 2024 Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) graduation parade event on December 12.
"The desire to serve and support my family and make them proud is the big contributor as to why I joined ADFA," Officer Cadet Skinner said.
ADFA allows people to work alongside dedicated and motivated individuals who share a common purpose.
It is the first step for trainee officers toward their ADF career. It offers world-class education, plus cutting-edge military and leadership training.
The parade marked the completion of three years of military and undergraduate academic studies for ADFA trainee officers.
Chief of Personnel Lieutenant General Natasha Fox said ADFA developed the character of its trainee officers to produce intelligent and ethical well-rounded personnel.
"Often straight from school, ADFA trainee officers join the academy aspiring for a career in ADF," Lieutenant General Fox said.
Moving to Australia in 2008, Midshipman Jack Burns always wanted to follow his father's footsteps, who served in the United Kingdom's Royal Navy.
"I would like to sail my own ship eventually - hopefully one of the Hunter-class frigates," Midshipman Burns said.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in History and International and Political Studies.
Midshipman Burns led the winning Echo Squadron that took home the prestigious Lancaster Cup - an annual competition at ADFA that tests the grit, teamwork and all-around excellence of six squadrons: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, Echo and Foxtrot.
ADFA trainee officers receive a generous salary plus full medical and dental cover. They graduate Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)-debt free, with a guaranteed rewarding career in the ADF across the maritime, land, air, space or cyber domains.
"This is a university experience like no other. I am glad I said yes to opportunities that came my way at ADFA," Officer Cadet Skinner said.
ADFA is a diverse institution with trainee officers from across Australia and the world, representing different cultures and religions.
Among the cohort graduating, there were 24 international students from the Philippines, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, Jordan and Saudi Arabia.
For information on how to join the ADF, or attend ADFA, visit https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/
