STEM Careers | Sophie Tran - Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Officer

From growing up on a strawberry farm in South East Queensland, to completing a Mechanical Engineering degree, Sophie is an Engineering Officer in the Australian Army having pursued a career in STEM.

At school, Sophie focused on subjects such as graphics, math and science –this drove her interest into engineering and commenced her journey towards a Cert IV as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician and the subsequent completion of a Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering.

Sophie joined the Army through the Defence Undergraduate Sponsorship (DUS) Program during her final year at the University of the Sunshine Coast. Since then, she has had opportunities in nuclear science and technology, Defence capabilities and Defence industry. She has used her engineering skills to be effectively employed across a range of managerial, personnel, operations and logistic roles. Her next position will focus on providing technical engineering advice to support the delivery of new capabilities into Defence.

"Having a background in engineering has equipped me with skills such as analysis and problem solving, allowing me to pick up a diverse range of roles as an Army Officer. DUS is a great program and opportunity for those who want to expand their skills and experience"

"I love that I am continuously faced with challenges and opportunities which are unique to Defence. I appreciate the experiences I am developing through different roles, the adventure and travel associated with the job and the sense of service I get from being part of the Australian Defence Force."