Wellington-born teacher swaps classroom for Air Force

Central Wellington-born Flying Officer Stella Urlich has swapped the classroom for a new career as a Learning and Development Officer in the Royal New Zealand Air Force.

She has just graduated the 16-week Initial Officer Training at RNZAF Base Woodbourne.

Flying Officer Urlich, 25, is no stranger to education having a Master of Teaching and Learning and having worked previously as a teacher, which she hopes will serve as a base for the next phase of her training.

“I expect to be involved in a lot of learning though my initial induction period, including learning design and analysis and getting familiar with the various learning systems in the New Zealand Defence Force,” she said.

She said there have been a number of challenges along the way and although hard, it was a great to be pushed outside her comfort zone.

“I found the field exercises particularly mentally and physically challenging. They were designed to expose us to uncertain and challenging environments and to teach and test our leadership skills.

“As a result I have ended up doing things that a year ago I would never have thought myself capable of doing.

“I have really appreciated the opportunity to develop my resilience, discipline and leadership skills. I am looking forward to bringing my experiences from the course with me into my role as a Learning and Development Officer,” Flying Officer Urlich said.

Flying Officer Urlich said she has appreciated being on course with people how have supported and encouraged each other.

“We have fostered a great sense of camaraderie and I am looking forward to seeing everyone succeed in their various positions as we go forward from graduation.

“I am aspiring to make meaningful contributions to enhancing learning systems in order to meet the evolving needs of the organisation,” she said.

She encouraged anyone wanting to join to the New Zealand Defence Force to trust the training.

“When I first applied I wasn’t sure if I was ready. I am glad I applied anyway as the training is very thorough and I now feel prepared for my career as a leader in the Air Force.”

To learn more about a career in the Air Force visit www.defencecareers.mil.nz(external link)