In this episode, Grant McHerron and Katherine Ziesing, Managing Editor of ADM, talk with Shireane McKinnie, the inaugural ADM Women in Defence Awards Hall of Fame inductee. Shireane discusses her career in engineering and Defence, from her studies at university and first engineering roles through to her experiences with the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO).

Originally intended to be a short term opportunity, Shireane soon discovered that she enjoyed working with Defence and remained with DMO for over 15 years. During this time she proceeded into senior management roles, including Head of Electronic and Weapon Systems Division, Head of Acquisition & Sustainment Reform and General Manager of Joint Systems and Air Group.

Throughout the discussion, Shireane provides many examples of fighting against generally held limitations against women in engineering and engineers as program managers. She also discusses how she was able to balance her family and her career which eventually included taking on a mentoring role to help others succeed.

Shireane's career and experiences to date provide inspiration to many while also demonstrating why she was chosen to be the inaugural inductee into the Hall of Fame in 2018.

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The ADM Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Australian Defence Magazine, a Yaffa Media title.

The views of the people appearing on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Australian Defence Magazine, the Department of Defence or the guests' employer.

If you wish to use any of this podcast's audio, please contact Australian Defence Magazine via their website www.australiandefence.com.au or email them via [email protected] to get involved.

Hosted by Grant McHerron

Producer - Steve Visscher

Australian Defence Magazine - 2020