Darwin, Northern Territory – At just 21, Aircraftwoman Kacie McGill-Hayes is forging a path in a traditionally male-dominated field as a ground support equipment technician with the Royal Australian Air Force. Her story, unfolding at RAAF Base Darwin, highlights both the opportunities within the ADF and the evolving landscape of trades once considered exclusively for men. McGill-Hayes’ journey, rooted in a childhood passion for mechanics, offers a compelling example for young women considering careers in technical fields, particularly as International Women’s Day approaches on March 8.
McGill-Hayes’ interest in mechanical work began in Ipswich, Queensland, where she spent weekends assisting her grandfather’s drag-racing team. This early exposure ignited a lifelong passion, ultimately leading her to enlist in the Air Force in 2023. Now, almost three years into her service, she’s thriving in her role at 114 Mobile Control and Reporting Unit (114MCRU), demonstrating a dedication and aptitude that’s earning her recognition within the force. The ADF is actively working to increase diversity within its ranks, and McGill-Hayes’ success story is a testament to these efforts.
A Diverse Role in a Critical Unit
As a ground support equipment technician (GSETECH), McGill-Hayes’ responsibilities are remarkably varied. “My role is extremely diverse, providing me the opportunity to learn something modern every day,” she explained. Her work encompasses both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on a range of “green fleet” vehicles, including G-Wagons and MAN trucks. Beyond vehicles, she also maintains essential equipment like generators, air-conditioning units, and the radar support systems crucial to the operations of 114MCRU. This unit plays a vital role in air defense and surveillance, and the reliable functioning of its equipment is paramount.
The breadth of her tasks is a key aspect of what she enjoys about the job. Unlike roles with repetitive routines, McGill-Hayes finds herself constantly challenged and learning, a dynamic she values highly. This continuous learning is also supported by her pursuit of further qualifications, including a Certificate III in heavy commercial vehicle mechanical technology and electrical disconnect and reconnect authorisations – skills she believes will be invaluable throughout her career, both within and outside of Defence.
Navigating a Male-Dominated Trade
The GSETECH trade currently has a ratio of roughly one woman to every 27 men, according to the Air Force. While acknowledging this imbalance, McGill-Hayes reports a largely positive experience. “There are moments where you perceive like you necessitate to prove yourself,” she admitted, “however, I have been fortunate enough to be a part of a very supportive and encouraging team, so those feelings don’t last.” This supportive environment has been instrumental in her confidence and success.
She describes her first posting as “amazing,” emphasizing the sense of camaraderie and shared pride in completing tasks effectively. This positive team dynamic is crucial in fostering an inclusive environment where all members feel valued and respected. McGill-Hayes’ experience underscores the importance of supportive workplaces in attracting and retaining women in traditionally male-dominated trades.
Inspiring the Next Generation
With International Women’s Day on the horizon, McGill-Hayes hopes her story will resonate with other women considering a career in mechanical trades. She emphasizes that she has consistently felt “valued and accepted” since enlisting, and that the ADF provides clear “pathways and support networks” for women to thrive. Her message is clear: there is a place for women in every facet of the organisation.
McGill-Hayes highlights the trust she’s been given to perform her duties, stating, “I’m trusted to do the job, just like everyone else.” This sense of equality and opportunity is a key factor in her positive experience. For young women contemplating a career in the Australian Defence Force, she offers straightforward encouragement: “There are so many different roles to choose from, and the opportunities and experiences in Defence are unlike any other career. Take the chance, you won’t regret it.”
The ADF continues to actively recruit skilled personnel, and opportunities for women in technical trades are expanding. More information about careers within the Royal Australian Air Force can be found on the Defence Jobs website.
As McGill-Hayes continues to develop her skills and contribute to the vital work of 114MCRU, her story serves as an inspiring example of how passion, dedication, and a supportive environment can empower individuals to succeed in any field. The next step in her career will be the completion of her current qualifications, further solidifying her expertise as a GSETECH and opening doors to future opportunities within the ADF.
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