In this episode of Engineering Success, NTP Talent's Melinda Sietsma sits down with Bret Barton, HunterNet Senior Business Advisor and UoN Defence & Aerospace BD Lead, to pull back the curtain on the booming industrial landscape of Newcastle. A seasoned aeronautical engineer, Bret shares his fascinating journey from the Canadian military, to the frontline of flight testing in Florida, before eventually settling in Australia and working with major firms like Nova Systems.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to break into the high-stakes worlds of defense contracting, Bret provides a reality check on the patience required, and the big payoff that awaits those who survive the long game. In this episode, Bret and Mel discuss the vital ecosystem driving the region’s future, from the AUKUS submarine program and hypersonics, to the transition into new energy. Whether you're an engineer looking to upskill or an entrepreneur trying to navigate equity and mentorship, this episode is a masterclass in how local collaboration and a "dual-use" technology strategy can turn regional challenges into a global competitive advantage.