NewsDiversity and inclusion programs recognised at the Australian Defence Industry Awards

Aurecon has been recognised as a finalist for Training and Mentorship Program of the Year, for the joint Defence-Aurecon Ascend Program, and is also a finalist in the Veteran Support Program of the Year category.

Damon Howes, Managing Director for Defence and National Security at Aurecon Australia said the acknowledgement is a testament to Aurecon’s commitment to driving meaningful change.

“With a longstanding history of partnering with Defence and its communities, we understand the challenges of achieving gender diversity at senior levels. Overcoming this challenge is at the heart of the Defence-Aurecon Ascend Program.

“We have also made significant strides in the continuous development of our Veteran Support Program that supports, encourages, and develops employees with a defence background.”

Training and Mentorship Program of the Year – Defence-Aurecon Ascend Program

Since early 2020, the Department of Defence and Aurecon have partnered to run the joint women’s leadership development program, Ascend. It is now in its fifth year.

The program aims to drive greater gender equity and inclusion in Defence and the defence industry and build an influential and collaborative community of women, capable of empowering themselves and other women across both companies.

The program also encourages senior leaders to play a significant part in driving positive change, highlighting the powerful influence leaders can have in removing cultural and structural barriers for under-represented groups.

Developed in partnership with psychology and behavioural science leadership development company, Inkling, Ascend is delivered over five months. It includes a range of learning experiences to provide high-potential women with the experience, exposure, and education needed to thrive in senior roles.

Through both Defence and Aurecon’s investment in this program, it continues to have a sustained positive impact, driving greater gender diversity in senior leadership, catalysing innovation at a broader scale, and creating a legacy with an enduring impact into the future. Thirty-five percent of participants from the 2023 program have already sought out a promotion, new role or significant stretch opportunity.

The Ascend program has also been awarded the Best Diversity and Inclusion Program or Initiative at the inaugural 2024 Defence & National Security Workforce Awards. It has previously been awarded the Transformation Project of the Year at the Australian Institute of Project Management 2022, Project Management Achievement Awards at both State and National levels.

Veteran Support Program of the Year

Aurecon provides a supportive community for recently transitioned veterans, currently serving Australian Defence Force reserve personnel, and family members of currently serving veterans. Understanding the value veterans bring to the workplace, including their real-world experience, knowledge, diversity of skills, thought, and capability, Aurecon has cultivated a program that helps veterans thrive in the workplace.

At Aurecon, veterans are recognised as a pillar in Aurecon’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Plan – Australia, prioritising the attraction and employment of veterans. Aurecon’s Veteran Support Program encompasses dedicated policies and frameworks, veteran support staff, an internal Defence Veterans’ Network, onboarding and induction support, and ongoing development opportunities.

Rising Star of the Year – Ramie Saleh, Senior Consultant, Program Advisory

Ramie Saleh, Senior Consultant in Program Advisory, has also been nominated as a finalist for Rising Star of the Year, recognised for his rapid career trajectory and commitment to excelling professionally in the defence industry.

He leads a diverse portfolio of 20 Defence projects, serving as both Design and Project Manager across multiple Defence bases in NSW and the ACT, where he oversees a team of over 30 engineers and designers.

Saleh has also been recognised as a finalist for Best Project Manager Under 35 at the inaugural 2024 Defence & National Security Workforce Awards.

Awards ceremony

Winners will be announced at the gala ceremony on Thursday, 18 July 2024 at the National Convention Centre, Canberra.