Babcock celebrates the achievements of trailblazing leaders as part of International Women’s Day

    Babcock Australasia (Babcock) is marking International Women’s Day by celebrating the achievements of trailblazing leaders in engineering and technology who are paving the way for the next generation of women in Defence. Executive Director People & Safety Sue Whitford said: “We recognise women are crucial to Babcock’s aim of ‘creating a safe and secure world, together’ and celebrate their contributions everyday – not just on International Women’s Day.” “We seek to continue to break down barriers that may exist for gender diversity in non-traditional roles and strive for our workforce to be representative of the communities in which we operate,” she said. Three senior women are pioneering breaking gender barriers and helping to shape Babcock Australasia’s future: Chief Technologist Karen Trezise, Chief Engineer – Mission & Support Systems Kirsty Bateman, and Chief Engineer – Maritime Fleet Sustainment Services (MFSS) Kelly Smith. Chief Technologist Karen Trezise said she has been inspired by women to make a meaningful impact to her community – and the world – throughout her career. “As Babcock’s Chief Technologist, I have a voice in setting the strategic direction of business growth. I feel that my experience and contributions are valued at a high-level and this drives passion for my work and motivates me to strive for excellent outcomes,” Karen said. “Working at Babcock has allowed me to follow my passion, constantly learn, and travel the world. I get to work with some of the greatest minds from around the world in research, universities, and wider industry, as well as my Babcock International Group colleagues.” After beginning her career in the Royal New Zealand Navy, Babcock Chief Engineer Maritime Fleet Sustainment Services Kelly Smith is now responsible for supporting the sustainment of the Royal New Zealand Navy’s ships. “At Babcock, everyone unites around one mission – we’re here to keep the Navy’s ships at sea. It’s a rewarding job to be able to enable our Defence Force and continue to work alongside the sailors at Devonport,” Kelly said. “Inspiring the next generation of women in Defence and engineering is something I find incredibly rewarding. Through Babcock’s Intern and Graduate Program and partnership with Auckland University of Technology, I have spoken about the importance of being authentic, being brave, and building resilience, and I have also become a mentor.” Chief Engineer Mission & Support Systems Kirsty Bateman worked in a number of senior and executive roles at Thales Australia and BAE Systems Australia before taking on her critical role at Babcock. “My remit covers a diverse portfolio, which provides me with different challenges each day,” Kirsty said. “At Babcock, I have experienced first-hand an inclusive culture where everyone is valued and actively encouraged to progress their careers. We have a fantastic early career programme in place allowing us to proactively develop staff creating a talent pipeline ready for future opportunities, as we continue to grow as an organisation.”   For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]