Veterans, especially those of us who worked in technical trades, bring hands-on skills, practical experience and problem-solving ability to the workforce. Scholarships provide the academic framework we need to elevate those existing skills.
For former Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Avionics Technician Ewan, the Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship is helping him build on his Defence experience and take the next step towards becoming a qualified engineer.
Ewan joined the RAAF in 2001 at 20 years old as an Avionics Technician. After completing a rigorous 14-month course at RAAF Base Wagga, he undertook on-the-job training at RAAF Base Edinburgh, maintaining and repairing aircraft electrical, radar, navigation and instrument systems on the AP-3C Orion.
He later served with the Electronic Warfare Squadron before completing his Australian Defence Force (ADF) career with the Air Force Improvement team, focusing on continuous improvement.
“I was primarily driven by a desire to serve my country and find a strong sense of purpose,” Ewan said of his decision to join the ADF.
With a young family and a pending posting that would have required him to move away, Ewan made the decision to discharge in 2014 to support his family’s stability.
Having previously completed a degree in management, Ewan’s transition into civilian employment was relatively smooth, securing a role in management consulting in the private sector. But he missed the Defence environment and the sense of purpose that came with it.
When the COVID-19 pandemic affected demand in the consulting sector, Ewan saw an opportunity to return to the defence industry.
He now supports the day-to-day operations of an electronics laboratory at RAAF Base Edinburgh, working as a contractor to Defence through Omni Executive.
“It all comes back to having a purpose, knowing that your work directly contributes to the nation and helps protect society,” Ewan said.
“Returning to the defence sector feels like coming home.”
Turning experience into expertise
Wanting to build on his practical experience with formal engineering qualifications, Ewan applied for the Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship Program after a fellow veteran colleague encouraged him to apply.
Ewan is now studying a Bachelor of Engineering Science online, through Charles Darwin University, in the Electrical and Electronic Engineering stream. He previously completed an Associate Degree in Engineering at the University of South Australia.
“It has bridged the gap between my hands-on technical background and high-level engineering theory,” Ewan said.
“When we are conducting testing now, I don’t just know how to do it; I understand the concepts and theoretical principles behind why we are doing it.”
The scholarship has also given Ewan greater confidence in the workplace as he moves from a technician to an engineering mindset.
“The standout milestone for me is simply sitting in technical discussions and feeling that I have a valid, educated voice to add to the table.”
His goal is to become a Chartered Engineer, with his studies providing the next steps towards achieving that.
Building on Defence experience
For Ewan, the Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship is helping him build on the skills and experience gained through Defence.
“Veterans, especially those of us who worked in technical trades, bring hands-on skills, practical experience and problem-solving ability to the workforce,” he said.
“Scholarships provide the academic framework we need to elevate those existing skills.”
He encourages other veterans and partners considering further study to apply.
“Absolutely go for it. If given the opportunity, the experience you already have is a huge asset to build upon.”
Like Ewan, you could use the Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship Program to build on your experience, gain new qualifications and pursue your professional goals.
Veterans and partners of current and former-serving ADF members are encouraged to apply for support to achieve their study and career goals.
Applications close at 5.00 pm ACST Monday 8 February 2027.
Learn more and apply for the Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship.
Photo: 2025 Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship recipient and RAAF veteran, Ewan.
