Based in Adelaide, Adelle is part of the Architecture team for the JP9101 Program, working to deliver the Enhanced Defence High Frequency Communications System for the Commonwealth, and has been with Babcock since 2023.
We sat down with Adelle to find out about her career at Babcock.
What was your path to becoming an engineer?
My journey into engineering wasn’t a traditional one. In my mid-thirties, I went back to study and began my engineering degree after working in a range of roles, from office administration to fibre optic technician and spending time as a stay-at-home mum. Part way through my degree, I applied to become a sponsored undergraduate for the Australian Army.
Once I graduated, I began my Army career, which was an experience! I found myself doing things I never expected to be doing. During my 10 years in the Army, I held a variety of roles including Platoon Commander of a workshop, a rotatory wing avionics engineer and an electronic warfare counter measures engineer.
After leaving the Army, I joined BAE on JORN Phase 6. There I able to apply my skills developed as counter measures engineer, countering radars in a new way – this time helping to develop a radar. I was the Verification & Validation (V&V) Lead for the BAE Surveillance IPT and the Commonwealth V&V Lead. These roles were challenging in new ways. One of my proudest achievements from that time was rewriting the Test and Evaluation Master Plan, which was later used as an exemplar in the UNSW Test and Evaluation Course.
What does your current role entail?
In my current role, I provide technical advice to design teams and the recurring services team, particularly around radio frequency performance of the Defence High Frequency Communications System (DHFCS) system. This involves conducting detailed analysis to inform design decisions, such as calculating system linearity, sensitivity and antenna gain. This helps ensure the system performs as required.
Why did you choose to join Babcock?
I was drawn to Babcock because of the JP9101 project. I wanted the opportunity to work for a prime contractor on an acquisition program which would continue to develop my knowledge of radio frequency principles, in particular high frequency applications.
Babcock’s strong focus on delivery, combined with its ambition to take on large, complex programs really stood out to me.
How does your team contribute to our purpose of ‘Creating a safe and secure world, together’?
I work for the Architecture team within JP9101, where we play a significant role in ensuring that the product we deliver is providing key capabilities to our customer, the Australian Defence Force.
The capability we are developing will provide a global communications system which can provide alternative ways to communicate should satellite communications or submarine cable communications become denied.
What are the most enjoyable and/or interesting aspects of your job?
One of the best things about my job is that there is a lot to learn. Even after three years on the program I am still learning. Everyday my knowledge expands, and that ongoing growth keeps me motivated.
I really enjoy collaborating with the people on JP9101. My colleagues are intelligent, enthusiastic and kind individuals. Working as a team, assisting others, sharing knowledge and pulling together towards a common goal is a big part of our culture.
Another highlight has been the opportunity to travel overseas representing Babcock and learning more about HF Communications at industry specific conferences. I have also attended factory acceptance testing in Rome, acting as a test witness.
What is your proudest moment since joining Babcock?
Being offered the role of Principal HF Communications Engineer was a personal milestone for me. I left the Army with the desire to become a technical specialist, and with the offer of this role, I felt like I had finally achieved this.
What makes Babcock a good place to work?
It is a cliché, but it is the people, it is always the people. If you can come to work and have a laugh while working hard, it does make it easy.
As a team and as a program we have open and frank conversations, while still respecting the views and opinions of everyone. It is important to make sure everyone feels safe and valued so that they feel empowered to contribute, even if what they are saying goes against the general consensus.
Learn more about a career with Babcock
At Babcock, you’ll be part of something bigger with opportunity across Babcock’s global reach of diverse and innovative programs. With an engineering career at Babcock you have the opportunity to work across a diverse range of programs and projects:
- Design, modify and maintain naval ships
- Design, build and maintain ship and submarine systems
- Develop advanced communication and surveillance systems
- Modify and maintain aircraft
- Develop and maintain systems for future soldiers.
Read more on our Engineering Careers page.
Our Early Careers Program provides a range of pathways to help launch your career, gain first-hand experience and develop the knowledge and skills that can open up a world of opportunities. Read more on our Early Careers page or visit us at an upcoming careers event.
