Boeing Partnership Inspires Indigenous Student into Aerospace
Boeing Indigenous maintenance engineer Kari Sigurdsson (right) shows Elizabeth Ludwick a critical component of the CH-47F flight control system during her work experience.
TOWNSVILLE, QUEENSLAND – Elizabeth Ludwick is fascinated by science and reusable rocket technology, but it took a Boeing-sponsored work experience placement to ignite her interest in becoming an aerospace engineer.
“The time I spent with Boeing was pretty mind blowing,” the Cairns year nine student said. “It really helped me make better informed decisions about what I want to do when I finish high school.”
Ludwick was offered the opportunity through Career Trackers’ Work Shadow Program, which gives aspiring First Nations students real-world career experience, and Gunggandji Aerospace.
Her three-day immersive experience at Boeing's CH-47F Chinook program at RAAF Base Townsville included aircraft tours, a session in the Chinook flight simulator with the chief pilot and shadowing two Boeing Indigenous aircraft maintenance engineers.
Ludwick also met with Major Amy Power, an aerospace engineer herself, who shared her inspiring story of progressing through the Australian Army to managing its fleet of 14 Chinooks, and the various education pathways available to her.
Now, the young Gimuy Walubara Yindinji woman has first-hand experience of the aerospace industry, she’s confident of her future career path.
“The flight simulator was my favourite experience, and it would be incredible to fly helicopters, but I really want to be an aerospace engineer and design them,” she said. “The feeling of pride you'd get from making an aircraft would be amazing."
Boeing’s director of Sustainment Operations, Amy List said she hoped Ludwick would inspire more young Indigenous women into aerospace.
“Our partnership with Career Trackers gives many First Nations students unique insights into our industry,” List said. “We often take for granted what we do, but Elizabeth’s experience shows the value of real-world opportunities in sparking interest in a career in aerospace and aviation.
“We wish Elizabeth every success in achieving her career dreams and hope to one day welcome her back to Boeing – once she’s an aerospace engineer.”
Media Contact:
Karinne Cilento
Boeing Australia Holdings
Mobile: + 61 410 634 326
karinne.n.cilento@boeing.com