The 2017 Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN) National Young Achiever Awards were held during the organisation's annual dinner held in Canberra on February 7.
Rachel Harch from AIDN-QLD and Nova Systems was announced as the winner of the National Young Achiever Award (YAA).
In introducing the national finalists, AIDN National President, Alan Rankins said that “although the finalists worked in diverse backgrounds within the defence industry, each YAA displayed outstanding qualities in their profession and are a credit to themselves and their employers.”
“These fine young Australians are the key to our future.”
Rankins also remarked that, “this year’s AIDN National YAA competition had five outstanding finalists and I encourage companies in all states to put forward their young professionals for the 2018 award.”
MC, Graham Priestnall expressed AIDN’s gratitude for the ongoing support provided by the CASG.
In announcing the winner Rankins emphasised the importance of acknowledging and encouraging all talented young Australians involved in the defence industry.
“These fine young Australians are the key to our future, and initiatives, such as the AIDN Young Achiever Award, continue to nurture this talent,” he said. The YAA Award was presented by Deputy Secretary CASG, Kim Gillis.
The national finalists were:
- AIDN-QLD - Rachel Harch – Nova Systems
- AIDN-NSW - Ryan Andersen - Ryan Andersen, Aerospace & Mechanical Consulting Engineers
- AIDN-Vic - Kate Graves, QinetiQ Australia
- AIDN-ACT Michael Hellessey- Seabox International
- AIDN-SA (DTC) - Amanda Selway - Raytheon Australia
The annual Young Achiever award was created in 2008 to recognise the important contribution made by young people in Australia’s defence industry. The award is held at the AIDN Chapter (State and Territory) level with chapter winners competing for the national award.
AIDN is an association which aims to generate business opportunities for its SME members both locally and via global supply chains. The network operates in each State and Territory and has over 800 members.
Note: ADM Editor Katherine Ziesing was on the judging panel for the awards.