FULL EVENT PROGRAM

Michaela Jeffery

Systems Engineer
Nova Systems

Michaela Jeffery is an experienced Defence and Aerospace Systems Engineer, based within the Aerospace Emerging Markets team at Nova Systems. Michaela brings her together her experience both in cybersecurity and emerging aviation technologies to advocate for the safe and secure adoption of UAS without hindering innovation. Michaela is a member of the Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems (AAUS) Cybersecurity Working Group. Michaela holds a Bachelors of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from the University of Queensland, and is completing a Masters in Space Systems Engineering from the University of New South Wales.

Mark Shanley

Sales and Marketing Director
Astute Electronics

Mark Shanley is a strong advocate for emphasizing the importance of a secure supply chains. He focuses on counterfeit mitigation and the strategic use of reliable resources to enhance industry practices.

Mark has an extensive background in Defence, with deep expertise in counterfeit mitigation and navigating the challenges posed by current component shortages, as well as technological transfer. 

He currently serves as the global Sales and Marketing Director at Astute Electronics, celebrating his 30th year with the company. Last year, Mark received the MOD Quality Ambassador Award at the UK Ministry of Defence Quality Awards 2023, where he was highly praised for his exceptional contributions and commitment to the Defence industry, consistently going above and beyond expectations as a supplier to the MOD.

Mark's advocacy and educational efforts in promoting secure supply chains and counterfeit mitigation enhance safety and reliability in electronics, preventing economic losses and fostering consumer trust. His advocacy supports environmentally sustainable practices and ensures that businesses can focus on innovation rather than managing disruptions.

Paul Flick

Principal Engineer
CSIRO Data 61

Professor Chris Manzie

Professor
The University of Melbourne

Professor Chris Manzie is the Head of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Melbourne. 

He was a Visiting Scholar with the University of California at San Diego in 2007 and a Visiteur Scientifique with IFP Energies Nouvelles, Rueil Malmaison, France, in 2012. His research interests are in model-based and model-free control and optimization with applications related to autonomous systems, energy, transportation, and mechatronics.

Professor Dragan Nesic

Professor
The University of Melbourne

Professor Dragan Nesic is an expert in the broad area of control engineering including its mathematical foundations and its applications to various areas of engineering and science and has published about 500 research articles. Prof. Nesic is a Fellow of IEEE and a Fellow of IFAC and he served as a Distinguished Lecturer of the Control Systems Society of the IEEE. He was a co-recipient of the George S. Axelby Outstanding Paper Award. He is a recipient of numerous awards and prizes.

Steve Brass

Managing Director
Brassets Group

Steve Brass, a seasoned technology industry veteran with over 40 years of experience. He has established himself as a key speaker in several countries including Australia and the USA sharing his expertise on cutting-edge technologies and their societal impact. As the founder of Brassets Group, an innovative technology provider specializing in solutions for governments, defence departments, and police forces, Steve has led countless projects that have revolutionized the way organizations use intelligent technologies to manage security and communications.

Known for his collaborative approach to problem-solving, Steve works with the world's leading technology scientists and developers to push the boundaries of what is possible in the digital realm. His passion for innovation and driving positive change through technology earns him industry respect. Whether speaking at conferences, leading workshops, or advising governments, Steve is at the forefront of the technology revolution, shaping the future for generations to come.

Michael Rothwell

Strategic Advisor
Accenture

Rear Admiral Michael Rothwell retired from the Royal Australian Navy in 2021. His 39 year military career included command of the Mine Hunter Coastal HMAS Diamantina, Landing Ship Heavy HMAS Tobruk, and Joint Task Force 633 responsible for Australian Defence Force operations and personnel in Afghanistan and the Middle East region during 2020-21. He has deployed on numerous other operations. Key appointments providing him a breadth of experience include Capability Manager of the Navy’s Amphibious and Support fleet, Commanding the Navy’s training command, Director General Maritime Operations at Joint Operations Command, and Head of ICT Operations for the Department of Defence.

Michael is currently a Strategic Advisor at Accenture. He holds a Bachelor of Laws from the Queensland University of Technology, and graduated from the the US Naval War College. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2014 and awarded a Conspicuous Service Cross in 2022.

Ross Thompson

Chief Executive Officer
PeopleIN

Ross has led in diverse settings, including multi-national corporations, sports, and military environments, developing and leading profitable operations in Australia, Asia, and Africa. His military background as a captain in the British Army's Queen's Gurkha Engineers contributes to his leadership depth in the defence sector, complementing his roles in the corporate and sporting worlds. Ross is currently a Non-Executive Director of Football Queensland and previously a Non-Executive Director of Queensland Rugby Union, further showcasing his wide-ranging leadership and governance expertise.

Gareth Collier

Vice President - Strategy
SimCentric Technologies

Gareth Collier served in the Australian Army from 1997 to 2015 in the Royal Australian Infantry Corps and 2nd Commando Regiment, with operational service in Afghanistan, East Timor and the South Pacific, in addition to an instructional exchange with the British Army in Belize and Panama. He is an alumnus of the ADF Capability Technology Management College (CTMC) and was the 2011 course Student of Merit. He holds a Masters of Business Program Management, a Masters of Capability Technology Management, and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours).

Gareth joined SimCentric Technologies as Vice President – Strategy in 2015 and for the past eight years has led an Army Innovation Day initiated project to systemically enhance and digitise live fire range safety measures with persistent reduction of soldier fratricide risk. This innovation resulted in creation of the SAF-FORESIGHT application built explicitly on Australian doctrine, then procured at ADF enterprise level in 2019 with extensive further development, integration and proofs of concept subsequently completed. Gareth is a SimCentric Company Director and Board Member; positions he has held since his initial appointment in 2015.

Dr Khusro Saleem

Chief Technology Officer
Australian Systems Research Pty Ltd

Dr Khusro Saleem has decades of experience in advanced signal processing, digital systems design, radar and communication systems. He has experience in the design of advanced wideband radio-frequency systems and radar systems. He has worked for Defence (as a research engineer in DSTG in the 1990s) on weapon sensor systems and sensor networks. He has also worked on tracking systems, ADSL technology in Bandspeed, and developed digital systems in a number of other companies. He has worked at the University of Melbourne, Melbourne Defence Enterprise, for 6 years leading work on advanced wideband RF systems. He is a cofounder of Australian Systems Research (trading as ASR Defence) with Dr Esty Yap and Dr Len Sciacca.

Dr Matthew Ilic

Development Manager – Defence and Strategic Projects
Vocus

During a career spanning thirty years in the Australian Army – Royal Australian Corps of Signals, Matthew Ilic specialised in fixed installation (deployed) and backhaul for forward operating bases whilst deployed in the Solomon Islands, East Timor and the Middle East. Currently, he holds the position of Development Manager – Defence and Strategic Projects at Vocus. In this position, he works with the Australian Defence Force to find ways to incorporate leading edge communications technology to provide a combat multiplier to command and control from the Tactical through to the Strategic levels of operations. His educational accomplishments include a Doctorate of Philosophy (Organisational Psychology), Master of Science (IT), Master of Psychology (Clinical) and Master of Military Studies.

Ashley Neale

Head of Space and Wireless Operations
Vocus

Ashley is an experienced commercial leader, who values a customer-centric approach and the development of new markets.  For the last 15 years, Ashley has been involved in the Australian satellite industry, developing and leading satellite services organisations, delivery programs and business units.  With Vocus, Ashley leads the Space and Satellite practise, enabling ground connectivity for LEO sat operators and serving Vocus’ customer base with emerging satellite services.

Libby Day

Chief Executive Officer
Defence Teaming Centre

Libby Day is a CEO and Non-Executive Director with over 20 years’ experience in complex and highly regulated industries at a national and international level. Libby has worked for multinational companies in the Advanced Manufacturing sectors of Pharmaceuticals, Medical Devices and Genomic Sequencing, and now with NFP organisations.

Allan Ryan

Founder & Executive Director
Hargraves Institute

Allan Ryan is a researcher and educator who brings out the best in people and teams to solve complex problems. He founded the Hargraves Institute and has developed tools to make collaboration a competitive advantage.

Zach Stock

Head of Discipline (Mechanical Engineering)
Thales Australia

Zach Stock is the Head of Discipline – Mechanical Engineering for the Integrated Weapons and Sensors division of Thales Australia. With an extensive background in additive manufacturing, Zach has previously established the Sydney Manufacturing Hub at The University of Sydney.

Tea Dietterich

CEO
2M Language Services

Tea Dietterich is Founder and CEO of 2M Language Services, Australia’s leading language technology and language service provider, specialising in language technologies, AI, and data security systems. Tea works with a client portfolio of Fortune 500 companies across mining, defence, manufacturing and software industries. 

Dr Immaculate Motsi

Lead, Responsible AI
AI and Cyber Futures Institute

Dr. Immaculate (Mac) Motsi-Omoijiade, a Senior Research Fellow at AICF, is at the forefront of exploring the intersection of AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity within military operations. 

Her research rigorously examines the integration of advanced data-driven technologies into defense frameworks, emphasizing the critical alignment with Public International Law. This includes an extensive analysis of AI's influence on military decision-making, ensuring that ethical deployment aligns with principles of accountability, transparency, fairness, and human rights. Her previous work, which includes a focus on the legal, regulatory, and governance dimensions of emerging technologies at institutions such as RAND Europe and the University of Birmingham, provides a solid foundation for understanding the challenges of implementing AI in sensitive military contexts. Dr. Motsi-Omoijiade’s commitment to merging technological innovation with robust legal standards aims to enhance global security while maintaining operational accountability and adherence to International Humanitarian Law.

Dr Katrina Sanders

Chief Medical Officer
Aspen Medical

Dr Katrina Sanders is the Group Chief Medical Officer for Aspen Medical and is renowned for her expertise in strategic healthcare management, particularly in challenging and dynamic environments. Her role includes strategic direction and oversight of our global health operations.

Dr Sanders is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, has a master’s degree in public health, and is the recipient of two Australia Day Achievement Medallion’s in recognition of her contribution to healthcare. Her former role as Chief Medical Officer for the Australian Federal Police included coordination and management of contracted health services domestically and internationally with consideration of risk, population needs and government priorities, in a complex and dynamic environment.

A former senior medical officer in the Australian Army Dr Sanders has expertise in military medicine, senior medical administration and management, occupational health, and public health. Her real-life leadership experience includes international deployment, management of the delivery of health operations in high-risk environments and includes the development and implementation of clinical governance and quality assurance frameworks. Dr Sanders is a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Fellow of the Security and Health Executive Leadership Institute, and board Chair and director of several boards. With leadership and experience spanning the military, government, and private sectors, Dr Sanders possesses a unique skill set that empowers her to champion medical excellence in diverse and complex settings. Driven by her commitment to advancing healthcare standards, Dr Sanders plays a pivotal role in shaping the dynamics and enhancing the quality of healthcare on a global scale.

Ofir Rozenberg

Technology Lead
Accenture

With a wealth of experience spanning over two decades in the Defence Industry, Ofir is a seasoned leader who excels in the development and delivery of complex technological projects. His areas of expertise center around modeling and simulation and command and control systems. Throughout his career, Ofir has successfully led the implementation of numerous large-scale programs across the globe, showcasing his proficiency in managing and executing intricate initiatives. Complementing his technical knowledge, Ofir has earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA), enhancing his strategic and managerial capabilities. This unique combination of technical acumen and business acuity positions him as a valuable asset in driving innovation and achieving remarkable success even in challenging environments. As a leader, Ofir's ability to merge his technical expertise with a keen understanding of business dynamics enables him to make well-informed decisions and deliver outstanding results in diverse and demanding situations. Since August 15, 2022, Ofir has been assuming the role of Global Technology Lead at Accenture, with a primary focus on driving digital innovation for Defence projects worldwide. His responsibilities also include closely collaborating with the Australian Defence account to deliver exceptional solutions and services.

Harry Veivers

Hardware Architect
Thales Australia

Harry Veivers is a Hardware Architect with the Integrated Weapons and Sensors division of Thales Australia and is responsible for material selection, lightweighting and thermal management in product R&D. He is also a DMTC-sponsored PhD Candidate at The University of Queensland with a focus on the layup optimisation of composite tubular structures under thermomechanical loading conditions. Harry’s development of advanced modelling and optimisation techniques for composite material integration has led to improved performance opportunities for small arms and other Defence technology.

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Wednesday VIP Lunch

Sponsored by TBC

Wednesday 11 September, 1200-1330 

in the Melbourne Room Foyer, Convention Level 2, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Thursday VIP Lunch

Sponsored by Defence NT

Thursday 12 September, 1200-1330 

in the Melbourne Room Foyer, Convention Level 2, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Friday VIP Lunch

Sponsored by TBC

Friday 13 September, 1200-1330 

in the Melbourne Room Foyer, Convention Level 1, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Wednesday Networking Function

Sponsored by Ventia

Wednesday 11 September, 1700-1800

Located at Ventia Stand, Exhibition Centre, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre 

Thursday Networking Function

Sponsored by BAE Systems

Thursday 12 September, 1700-1800 

Located on the Exhibition Centre, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre 

Friday Networking Function

Sponsored by AMDA Foundation Limited

Friday 13 September, 1600-1700 

Located on the Exhibition Centre, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Andrew Crowe

Program Manager, Emerging Aviation Technology and Uncrewed System
Toll Aviation

Andrew Crowe is an experienced emerging aviation technology and uncrewed system expert with over 18 years of hands on and leadership experience. Most recently, Andrew has been employed within Aviation Special Projects with a focus on emerging aviation technology and uncrewed systems, within Toll Aviation. His current focus is on the civilian and military integration of the Shield AI V-BAT into Australian Skies. Previously, Andrew was an Australian Army Officer for 15 years as an uncrewed systems specialist. Most notably, Andrew was Army’s first Uncrewed System Troop Commander, who integrated the Insitu Scaneagle into Afghanistan in 2007, worked alongside the RAAF to integrate the IAI Heron into Afghanistan in 2009, and was embedded with coalition partners employing other large uncrewed system capabilities.

Experience:

Andrew has significant experience speaking and MCing at large events, typically within the uncrewed system industry. Additionally, Andrew is a Director of the Australian Association for Uncrewed System (AAUS), a significant partner of AMDA Foundation with conferences held across all AMDA events.

Specific speaking experience from 2022 and 2023 includes:

- Speaker: Henslow Defence and Security Conference, Sydney, May 2024

- Speaker: Indo Pacific 2023 Autonomy in the Maritime Domain, Sydney, Nov 2023

- MC: Beaten Zone Venture Partners Pitch Fest, Perth, September 2023

- MC: AAUS Advanced Air Mobility Summit, Melbourne, September 2023

- MC: AAUS RPAS in the Australian Skies, Canberra, July 2023

- MC: AAUS Gala Dinner and Awards Evening, Canberra, July 2023

- Speaker (Swarming technology advancement): AAUS RPAS in the Australian Skies, Canberra, July 2023

- MC: AAUS Conference Avalon Airshow, Avalon, March 2023

- Met with AMDA CEO and key staff (confirm future partnership with AAUS and AMDA): Avalon, March 2023

- MC: AAUS Autonomy in the Joint Military Battlespace Land Forces, October 2022

- Speaker (Future of Uncrewed Systems – Where are we headed?): AAUS ROTORTECH 2022 Conference, Brisbane, June 2022

- MC: AAUS ROTORTECH 2022 Conference, Brisbane, June 2022

- MC: Indo Pacific 2022 Autonomy in the Maritime Domain, Sydney, May 2022

Dr Craig Rogers

Director of SABRE
Defence Science & Technology Group

Currently, Craig is Director of SABRE at DST Group, this role involves engagement and the leveraging of capability in the Australian Biotechnology sector and the wider scientific research ecosystem to assist in meeting requirements of the Australia Defence Force. Craig’s background is a combination of science and business, where he completed a PhD in biotechnology in 2003, a post-doctoral position in the Department of Clinical Pharmacology at the Flinders Medical Centre, and an MBA in Technology Management.

Craig’s other roles at DST have included Director of Science Translation, Director of the Technology Partnerships Office and Program Lead for the Small Business Innovation Research for Defence (SBIRD) program under the Next Generation Technologies Fund.

Jeremy Hallett

Executive Chairman
Space Industry Association of Australia

Jeremy is an experienced business leader within the space industry in Australia and internationally. He currently sits on the Advisory Board of Av-Comm Space & Defence, APAC’s leading ground segment provider for space missions, and DroneShield, an ASX listed company leading the world in technology for the detection and defeat of autonomous systems. He also provides expert advice to other Australian space organisations including the Australian Space Agency. 

In addition, Jeremy is an angel investor, including being an investor and mentor in the Moonshot Space Accelerator - Australia’s only space accelerator programme that is helping to grow a space-enabled economy. Further, he is a mentor at the National Space Industry Hub run by Cicada Innovations helping space startups supercharged their commercialization journey. Previously, Jeremy was CEO and Managing Director at Clearbox systems, one of Australia's longest standing and most successful defence and space businesses. In space, Clearbox Systems has a particular emphasis on satellite communications and Space Domain Awareness. Clearbox’s solutions have been deployed extensively in Australia and internationally and are renowned for their technology, dependability of delivery and responsiveness to emerging requirements. While leading Clearbox Systems Jeremy helped found Quasar Satellite Technologies, a CSIRO spin-out company, alongside venture capital an industry founders. Quasar is enabling a new future for space communications by commercialising world-beating phased array technology from CSIRO. Jeremy is passionate about Australia’s space industry and believes in the ability of Australia’s space industry to provide world-leading technology and services. He is enthusiastic advocate for Australia space industry and has deep technical, commercial and operational knowledge in key sectors where Australian space industry has a competitive advantage.

Colonel Michael King

Director of Information Technology
Australian Army

David Ball

Regional Director Australia and New Zealand
Lockheed Martin Space

Nick Leake

Head of Satellite and Space Systems
Optus

Chris Keane

Director Strategy & Future Business
Northrop Grumman Australia

Michael Clark

Head of Industry Development & Engagement
Boeing Defence Australia

Michael Clark is the Head of Industry Development and Engagement at Boeing Defence Australia (BDA) and leads the Category Management team. 

A key focus is to lead the identification and development of Australian capability to support BDA deliver some of the Commonwealths largest and most complex programs. 

Michael has been with Boeing for over 9 years and is enthusiastic in driving Australian industry opportunities and supplier diversity outcomes. 

Michael continues in 2024 as a QLD Committee member for the Australian Industry and Defence Network Ltd (AIDN).

Darcy Rawlinson

Senior Manager New Business
Boeing Defence Australia

Darcy Rawlinson is the Senior Manager New Business for Boeing Defence Australia, responsible for new business campaigns and business growth. He leads a team of experienced business development professionals who build customer relationships and ensure Boeing offers innovative operational capabilities. 

Darcy joined Boeing in 2018 as a Business Development Manager focused on Networked Communications. He brings a wealth of experience in the field of communications and information systems after a 24-year career in the Australian Army. During a military career that spanned a number of technical and leadership roles, Darcy’s career highlights include command of a British Army Signal Squadron located Germany, which involved an operational tour to Afghanistan as part of Operation HERRICK. He was the inaugural Director of Army’s Land Network Integration Centre (LNIC) and went on to command a Signal Regiment. His final post in Army was as the Colonel Signals (G6) of Forces Command, where he was responsible for the ‘raise, train and sustain’ of Army’s communications, information systems and cyberspace capabilities. Darcy is a graduate of the Royal Military College Duntroon, the Australian Technical Staff Officer College and the Australian Command and Staff College. He holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting), a Masters of Management Studies (Defence Capability and Acquisition) and a Masters of Arts (Management and Strategy). Bringing an operational focus to complement Boeing’s engineering capability, Darcy enjoys working with technical teams to ensure the military customer’s needs are understood and exceeded. In his spare time, he enjoys the company of his wife and teenage daughter - when that is too overwhelming, he enjoys adventure motorbike riding

Andrew Crowe

Program Manager, Emerging Aviation Technology and Uncrewed System
Toll Aviation

Andrew Crowe is an experienced emerging aviation technology and uncrewed system expert with over 18 years of hands on and leadership experience. Most recently, Andrew has been employed within Aviation Special Projects with a focus on emerging aviation technology and uncrewed systems, within Toll Aviation. His current focus is on the civilian and military integration of the Shield AI V-BAT into Australian Skies. Previously, Andrew was an Australian Army Officer for 15 years as an uncrewed systems specialist. Most notably, Andrew was Army’s first Uncrewed System Troop Commander, who integrated the Insitu Scaneagle into Afghanistan in 2007, worked alongside the RAAF to integrate the IAI Heron into Afghanistan in 2009, and was embedded with coalition partners employing other large uncrewed system capabilities.

Carl Coffman

Vice President
FVL Strategy

Carl Coffman is the VP, FVL Strategy..  In this role, he is responsible for domestic and global market strategy and customer interface developing Advanced Vertical Lift Systems capabilities focused on Department of Defense Future Vertical Lift (FVL) Programs.   Prior to  this role he worked in Global Military Business Development and Sales and Strategy for the V-280. 

Carl joined Bell in 2016 following a 29-year career as an Army Aviator.  He has served in various attack helicopter units throughout the United States, Europe and Korea.  He has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. His last deployment was as the Chief of Staff, NATO Training Mission, Combined Security Transition Command – Afghanistan.  He has served as an attack helicopter observer controller, and staff trainer at the National Training Center and Battle Command Training Program.  Other notable assignments include Executive Officer to the Assistant Secretary of the Army (IE&E) and Inspector General/Director Commander’s Action Group, IMCOM.  He had the privilege of commanding at the Battalion and Brigade level.

Carl is originally from West Columbia, Texas.  He graduated from Texas A&M in 1987 with a BS and earned a MS from Central Michigan University .  He is a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College and is a rotary wing aviator qualified in the UH-1, OH-58 and AH-64.

COL Jeffrey Poquette PM, FLRAA

PEO AVIATION, U.S. Army Program Executive Office - Aviation

Colonel Jeffrey Poquette is a native of Long Island, New York and a graduate of the United States Military Academy, West Point, Class of 2000. Upon graduation he was commissioned an Aviation Officer and attended flight school. His first operational assignment was with the 25th Aviation Brigade, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. There he served as a Black Hawk Helicopter pilot and Assault Platoon Leader, and as an Assistant Operations Officer at both the Battalion and Brigade levels. In 2004 he deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Following his first tour with the 25th ID, he attended graduate school and completed the International Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program at the University of South Carolina where he graduated as the recipient of the “Distinguished Student Award.” Following graduate school, COL Poquette assumed command of the Charlie Company, 2-25 Aviation Regiment “Wolfpack,” an Assault Helicopter Company within the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB). In 2009, he deployed the company in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. After command, he was assigned as the 25th CAB’s Chief of Operations where he was responsible for day-to-day oversight of all Army Aviation operations in Northern Iraq.

 In 2010, COL Poquette assessed into the Army Acquisition Corps and attended the Acquisition Basic Course where he graduated as the Distinguished Honor Graduate. From 2011-2014 he served at Redstone Arsenal, AL, within Program Executive Office, Aviation, with duties as an Assistant Product Manager for both the Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems and H-60M Black Hawk Product Offices. From 2014-2018, COL Poquette served in the Pentagon as a Staff Officer within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics and Technology) and as the Executive Officer to the Deputy for Acquisition and Systems Management (DASM). 

From 2018-2021, he served as, Product Manager, for the Apache Attack Helicopter Production & Fielding Product Office. Upon completion of his command assignment, he attended and graduated from the US Air Force War College where he received the “Academic Excellence Award”. His most recent assignment was in the Pentagon serving as the Executive Officer to the dual hatted Principal Military Deputy (PMILDEP) for ASA(ALT) and Director of the Army Acquisition Corps. COL Poquette’s military education includes the Aviation Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, the Rotary Wing Aviator Course, the Acquisition Basic and Intermediate Courses, the US Army Command and General Staff College, the Battalion and Brigade Commander's Pre-Command Courses, and Senior Service College. His civilian education includes a Bachelor of Science from USMA, a Master of Business Administration from the University of South Carolina, and Master of Strategic Studies from Air University. He is a qualified aviator in the Black Hawk and Apache helicopters. COL Poquette’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), the Air Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (4 OLC), the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal (1 OLC), the Army Achievement Medal, the Iraq and Afghanistan Campaign Medals, the Senior Army Aviator’s Badge, the Air Assault Badge, the Army Staff Badge, and the Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA) Honorable Order of Saint Michael (Bronze Award).

Major General Frank J. Lozano

United States Army

Major General Frank J. Lozano is the Program Executive Officer (PEO) Missiles and Space, Redstone Arsenal, AL. He is responsible for the development, production, fielding, sustainment, and international program aspects for assigned missile and space systems. MG Lozano assumed his current position August 2022. MG Lozano graduated from Texas A&M University in 1993 and commissioned as a second Lieutenant in the Armor Branch. He served as a Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, Cavalry Squadron Staff Officer and Calvary Troop Commander, before transitioning into the Army Acquisition Corps in 2001. 

He graduated with a MBA from the University of Texas at Arlington and served with Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control in Grand Prairie, TX in 2002 as part of the Training With Industry (TWI) program. After completion of Command and General Staff College, BG Lozano was assigned as the Assistant Product Manager for Project Manager Soldier Weapons, PEO Soldier, followed by an assignment as an Ammunition and Demolition System Acquisition Manager for the Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and the Army Research Development and Engineering Command (RDECOM). In 2008, BG Lozano was assigned as a Department of the Army System Coordinator (DASC) for Tactical Missile Systems and Ballistic Missile Defense Systems. He was selected to be a Special Assistant for the Army’s Vice Chief of Staff, GEN. In his position as the Special Assistant, he provided insight, advice, and counsel on Army acquisition programs crossing many different functional capability areas. BG Lozano commanded the Product Management Office for Soldier Protective Equipment, PEO Soldier from 2011 until 2014. Subsequently, he was assigned to the Joint Staff, J-8 Capabilities and Acquisition Division. Upon graduation from the U.S. Army War College, he assumed the position of Project Manager for the Lower Tier Project Office, PEO Missiles and Space from 2017 until 2020, followed by an assignment as the Integrated Fires and Rapid Capability Office PM. He was subsequently selected to be the Special Assistant for the Army’s Vice Chief of Staff. BG Lozano’s operational and combat experience include deployments to Bosnia, Kuwait and Iraq. His awards and decorations include the Parachutist Badge, Ranger Tab, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, the NATO Service Medal, the Army Staff Identification Badge, and the Joint Staff Identification Badge. He is certified in Program Management; Contracting; System Research; Planning and Engineering; and System Test career fields. 

LTGEN Neil Thurgood (Rtd)

Senior Vice President
Anduril

Dr Neil Thurgood is recognized as a global leader for developing business strategies, training and personnel development, leadership development and strategy execution to achieve performance objectives. A successful Senior leader in solving critical problems in the defense and acquisition segments, including the integration of related activities and programs across the United States and international business segments to achieve desired outcomes.

Ross Newman

Founder
Astute Systems

Founder of DefenceX / Astute Systems we are focused on embedded software & hardware solutions for the ground domain, autonomy and vehicle integration. With over 30 years of experience in the military land, aerospace, and wireless protocol stack development, I have a passion for software and a focus on safety and security.

Rob Kremer

Kinexus
Director & Defence Sector Lead

Rob is an Executive Director with over 30 years of experience in the defence sector. His unique background includes nine years as an Officer in the Royal Australian Navy and 20 years as a specialist defence sector workforce recruiter and advisor.

Felicia Pradera

Head of the Health Security Systems Australia
DMTC Ltd

Felicia Pradera is the Head of the Health Security Systems Australia division at DMTC Limited, on secondment from the Defence Science and Technology Group, and the co-chair of the SABRE Alliance. Felicia has over 20 years of experience in cutting edge research and product development environments. Over the last 12 years Felicia has specialised in countermeasure development to Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) threats and the provision of CBRN related strategic advice to federal and state governments, including as a member of the Prime Minister’s Science and Industry Technical Advisory Group (SITAG), which had a lead role in guiding Australia’s national COVID-19 pandemic response. Felicia’s postgraduate academic qualifications are from the Technical University of Berlin and Monash University respectively. She is also a non-executive director of M:MBio Pty Ltd.

Dr Roger Lough AM

Chair
Australian Rocket Systems Training Network

Roger M Lough (Ph.D. Physical Chemistry, Adelaide University) retired as a member of the Australian Senior Executive Service in 2008 after 44 years in Government service directly associated with Defence. He finished his public service career as Australia’s Chief Defence Scientist (CDS) and CEO of the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO), the R&D arm of the Department of Defence. He is a Fellow of the Australian Association of Technological Sciences and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. 

In late 2008, he was awarded a US National Intelligence Community medallion, and in 2009 he was made a Member of the Order of Australia for his services to national security. As CDS/CEODSTO, he was responsible for managing the Australian defence R&D program supporting emerging technologies, future acquisition decisions and improvements to existing equipments and their methods of employment. He was a member of the Defence Executive, and principal adviser to the Minister for Defence, the Secretary of Defence and the Chief of the Defence Force on science and technology. During his career in DSTO, he led the laboratory specializing in aeronautical and maritime technologies, and, previously, several operating divisions covering weapons systems and operational research. Prior to this he was a weapons engineer specializing in solid propellant rocket design and test.  

In the mid 1970’s he was posted on exchange to the US Army and the US Navy, and in the mid 1980’s was a Defence attaché at the Embassy in Washington. Since 2008, he has advised state governments, industry and academia of emerging Defence needs and the technology strategies to meet them., including as a past member of the Victorian Defence Council, past Chair of the Victorian Defence Science Institute Advisory Board and past Deputy Chair of the Defence Materials Technology Centre (DMTC). He currently consults to the RAND Corporation, a major US based think tank, and has been involved in the development of the Australian Naval Shipbuilding Plan and the proposed acquisition of the AUKUS submarine. He is married to Diana and they have three adult children and 5 grandchildren. He lives in Glen Waverley, Victoria and is an active member of Rotary. 

Professor Matthew Cleary

Director
Australian Rocket Systems Training Network

Matthew Cleary is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering within the School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering at The University of Sydney. He is an internationally recognised research leader in computational models for turbulent combustion and multiphase fluid flows. Fundamentally, his research aims to address the competing issues of improving the performance and efficiency of combustion engines whilst also lowering the fuel consumption and reducing emission of toxic pollutants into the atmosphere.  

Matthew is working with partners in industry, defence, and at other universities to develop novel propulsion systems, including rotating detonation engine, solid rocket motor and hybrid motor cycles. Matthew is the Director of the Australian Rocket Systems Training Network and supervisor of the USYD Rocketry Team. Matthew has a PhD in combustion from the University of Sydney and Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture undergraduate degrees from the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales. 

Adam Amos

Director
Robotic Systems

Adam Amos is an Australian Mechatronics Engineer and the founder of Robotic Systems, a specialised tech hardware design & manufacturing agency based in Newcastle, NSW.

Adam specialises in accelerating the journey from idea to prototype and into manufacturing of other businesses' high value tech hardware products.

Adam has led Robotic Systems to be recognised by Deloitte as being in the top 100 fastest growing hardware businesses in Australia Pacific region as well as being credited as original inventor on 4 patents for tech hardware.

Ben Sorensen

Director
EPE Trusted to Protect

Ben works with EPE Oceania and is Consortium Director of ELO2, a 22 member industry-research collaboration to design and build Australia's first lunar rover and to undertake a lunar mission for the Australian Space Agency with NASA. His focus is leadership of industry-research collaborations to secure and grow prosperity for Australia, and he works closely with Defence and Space organisations and technical experts to develop and operationalise novel capabilities in cyber security, AI/ML, robotics & autonomous systems, and other critical technologies in the national interest.

He has held board and committee roles for public and private companies, was Board member for the Cybersecurity CRC, and was CSIRO Data61 Commercial Director. While at CSIRO he led Enterprise, Defence & National Security collaborations, led research collaborations with Defence Primes, led the CSIRO-DARPA relationship, the CSIRO and DSTG collaboration, and held committee roles for Defence and National Security. In 2021 Ben and his team were awarded a Eureka Price for Safeguarding Australia.

Ben chairs a Board Committee for Netball Queensland and has been a judge for the Brisbane Lord Mayor's Business Awards since 2014.

Dario Valenza

Founder
​Carbonix

Carbonix Founder, Dario Valenza will be presenting on ‘Using Avionics and Drone Technology for aerial data capture and ISR operations”, sharing insights into the unique drone capabilities required and use cases of successful deployment. The ability to provide real-time data and situation awareness to both maritime and ground-based teams is pivotal in the defence sector, and through specific drone capabilities and piloting, this information can be provided efficiently, quietly, precisely, and at scale.

Dario is the mastermind behind Carbonix’s vision, design, and composite manufacturing excellence. Keenly interested in aeroelastic structures and vehicle design, his creativity found an outlet early on in competitive radio-controlled yacht development, being apart of the construction of several World Championship winning boats. These applications then diversified into aerospace and eventually drone development.

Robert Sutton

Managing Director and Founder
Mirragin

Robert is passionate about using technology to make the world a better place. A former Aviation Engineer with the Australian Army, Robert founded Mirragin in 2017 to increase the uptake of robotics and autonomous systems within Australia. Robert is focussed on growing the industrial ecosystem within Australia to support our national security.

Chris Shaw

CEO
Advanced Navigation

Chris Shaw is the CEO of Advanced Navigation, a robotics and navigation technology company.

Chris earned his degrees in business and electronic engineering from the University of Western Australia graduating with First Class Honours. During this time, he was a research and development engineer at Entecho, a company focused on developing air taxis and aerial vehicles. Following this, he joined Cyber Technology, a company specialising in autonomous vehicles.

Upon discovering a gap in the market for small robust high performance autonomous navigation solutions, Chris co-founded Advanced Navigation. Since 2012, the company has experienced great success and has progressed into deep technology fields including, artificial intelligence, autonomy, photonics, sonar, robotics and quantum inertial sensors.

Joseph Kenrick

Technical Director
Lunar Outpost

Joseph Kenrick is Technical Director of the ELO2 Consortium and heads up the Lunar Outpost Oceania office, based in Melbourne, Australia. He holds a Master's Degree in Space Resources and a Bachelor's Degree in Petroleum Engineering with a Minor in Economics from the Colorado School of Mines.

At Lunar Outpost, he played a vital role in various projects, including NASA’s Break the Ice Challenge, the Autonomous Site Preparation: Excavation, Compaction and Testing Rover, and the Cislunar Logistics Center (a partnered project with the United States Air Force).

Currently, Joseph is spearheading the ELO2 Consortium’s technical and project efforts to develop an autonomous lunar excavator for the Australian Space Agency's Moon to Mars Trailblazer Program, which will be the country's first mission to the Moon.

Joseph also leads the commercialisation of the company’s space robotic systems for use in extreme environments on Earth.

Daniel Milford

Founder & CEO
Chironix

Daniel is the founder and CEO of Chironix, a robotics software engineering company headquartered in WA which develops robot behaviours to meet the needs of business and people. Chironix operates throughout the Indo-Pacific region supporting defence, utilities and resources customers. 

Daniel holds three masters in Capability & Technology Management (UNSW); Systems Engineering (UNSW); and Strategic and War Studies (Australian National University). He also holds a Postgraduate Diploma of Psychology, and a Bachelor of Arts with honours in Nuclear Weapons Disarmament

Dr Clyde Webster

Founder and CEO
Crest Robotics

Dr. Clyde Webster, Founder and CEO of Crest Robotics, pioneers workplace safety with innovative robots tackling repetitive, strenuous, and hazardous tasks. With a bachelor's in mechatronics engineering and a PhD in robotics from the University of Technology Sydney, Clyde engineered the world’s first parrot-inspired climbing robot for performing repetitive and dangerous work at heights, a task critical for maintaining our ageing energy and telecommunications infrastructure. His expertise spans the space, energy, and mining sectors, including roles at Space Machines Company and at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Clyde envisions robots as pivotal for a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainable future.

Brief professional background: Dr. Clyde Webster has worked as an engineer doing fundamental development in sectors including agriculture, mining, and space. He played a pivotal role in the early-stage development of Space Machines Companies Optimus Spacecraft and has experience working for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory researching robotic mobility on lunar exploration. Clyde developed a world-first robot inspired by the morphology of Parrots in his PhD, and now runs a successful early-stage robotic startup developing new robotic tools to meet the demands of the ever-evolving labour force.

David Cole

Founder
Flyfreely

Dr David Cole has been actively involved in the uncrewed systems industry Presentation Title: Controlling the "small and many": Lessons learnt from the civilian drone industry for over 10 years. 

Starting in 2013 with the founding a commercial drone services company before pivoting the company to focus on developing the FlyFreely drone management software platform in 2018. Dr Cole holds a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and Doctor of Philosophy from James Cook University.  He is also a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He remains at the forefront of industry developments by being an active member of several industry bodies including JARUS, EUROCAE and USAN. His current interests centre around airspace integration, automation of regulations and automation of operations for both small and large uncrewed systems.

Dr Nathan Kirchner

Founding Director
Robotics Australia Group

Dr Nathan Kirchner is a founding director of Robotics Australia Group. He has a proven and demonstrable track record of uncovering and imagining emerging real world, opportunities for cutting edge robotics research intentions and forging viable R&D to Deployment (R&D2D) pathways to their realisation. Over 15+ years in industry, and 10+ years in academia, initiating, shaping, establishing, driving and leading cutting-edge research driven enabling, transformative, and disruptive innovation.

Peter Milani

Founder & Managing Director
Ichor Autonomy

Peter Milani is the founder and managing director of Ichor Autonomy. Peter Milani has a Master's Degree in Engineering and is a veteran roboticist.  He has been developing robots in industry and research institutions for over 12 years. He was an original member of Emesent Pty Ltd, a CSIRO spinout, specialising in UAV GPS-denied autonomy, mapping and perception. He was a member of the CSIRO Data61 DARPA SubTerranean Challenge Team, developing UAV perception and autonomy inputs.  He was also the first Lead Engineer of Swarmfarm Robotics, an agricultural robotics startup, and automated their first two UGV prototypes. Peter also served full-time as a General Service Officer in the Australian Army for 13 years, as both a Combat and Logistics Officer before separating and working in heavy mining with BMA in the Bowen Basin.

Dean Rosenfield

Chief Executive Officer
Nova Systems

Dean is a highly experienced business leader with over 20 years of experience in the defence industry.

Prior to joining Nova, Dean was a Senior Vice President of Saab AB responsible for leading the global business development and sales function; and Group Managing Director Saab UK responsible for leading the UK business operating in the Defence, Public Safety and Underwater Robotics sectors.

Dean has led businesses in Sweden, Singapore, the UK, Australia and New Zealand and was previously Managing Director of the Saab Australia and New Zealand businesses.

He spent 15 years with the Australian Army, holds a Masters in Management from the University of NSW and is a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Professor Emily Hilder

Head of Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator

Head of the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA), Professor Hilder is leading the establishment of a new Defence innovation acceleration entity.

Prior to this Emily was the inaugural Director of the Future Industries Institute (FII) and Deputy Director of the ARC Research Hub for Integrated Devices for End-user Analysis at Low levels (IDEAL) at the University of South Australia. Emily is a graduate of the University of Tasmania (UTAS), where she completed her PhD in analytical chemistry in 2000. Following postdoctoral positions at Johannes Kepler University (Austria) and the E.O. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (USA) she returned to UTAS in 2004 where she held two ARC Fellowships (APD, Future Fellowship), as well as positions as Assistant Dean of Graduate Research and Head of Chemistry. Emily was the inaugural Director of the ARC Training Centre for Portable Analytical Separation Technologies. Emily's research in the field of analytical chemistry and materials science focuses on the design and application of new materials to improve analytical measurements.

Her work has led to commercial and field adoption in separation science, bioanalysis, disease diagnosis, environment and food science, defence and national security. Emily is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE) and the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI). Emily has won awards including the Eureka Prize for Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia (2019), RACI Doreen Clarke Analytical Medal (2016), UTAS Foundation Graduate Award (2010) and been recognised as one of the top 10 leaders on the Analytical Scientist Power List in 2013-2017, 2019-2021 and 2023, including the ‘Top 40 under 40’ in 2014. She is an Associate Editor of Analytical Chemistry (ACS), and a member of the Advisory Board for the Australian Maritime College (UTAS) and Defence Trailblazer.”

Bob Humphreys

Chief Executive Officer
Acacia Systems

Bob has built a successful career in the defence and technology sectors in local and international roles with a track record of delivering exceptional program management, business development, commercial and strategic customer relationship management outcomes.

Bob joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1984, completing his Bachelor of Electrical Engineering degree. His Navy career included various operational, support, and program management roles before retiring in January 2005 to begin a career in private enterprise. Bob’s final role in uniform was in Washington DC to lead the US Navy/RAN Cooperative Development Program for the joint R&D and productionisation of the next-generation submarine heavyweight torpedo, establishing a successful program that continues to this day.

Bob’s post-Navy career includes experience in Chief Operations Officer, General Manager and listed company CEO roles in the technology sector. Bob moved back into the Defence sector in 2019, working with several companies with a focus on the delivery of critical capability enablers to the men and women in uniform who help protect our national interests. Bob’s most recent role prior to taking on the Acacia Systems CEO role in July 2024 was leading the strategy for and implementation of the Combat Systems Integration 

Collaboration Agreement between the Commonwealth, BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin Australia and Saab Australia.

Bob is happily married to Trish, his wife of 27 years; together they enjoy the journey of helping three amazing children move into adulthood and their own successful careers. Bob’s singular passion other than his family is golf, where he was smart enough in the past few years to invite Trish to share that passion, and humble enough to admit that she is the better golfer!

Oleg Vornik

CEO
DroneShield

Oleg Vornik has led DroneShield (ASX:DRO) for the last 9 years, from the inception of the counterdrone industry to being the red hot area of the battlefield today, in the process helping to shape much of today's counterdrone sector.

Mark Willis MSc CEng FRAeS

Head of Integrated Product Support & Strategic Development
Pennant International Group

Mark is a Chartered Aerospace & Systems Engineer and Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society with over 45 years’ experience in the military and civil industry. Following a very successful 34-year career in the British Army and Royal Air Force, he entered defence consultancy in 2003.From 1998 to 2001, he studied Logistics Engineering at Exeter University and was awarded a master’s in science degree. Since 2003, Mark has held several Board level appointments in Defence SME companies delivering logistics engineering solutions, risk, safety, certification and airworthiness. Mark is a recognised global expert in ILS, IPS and system support solutions. He is the senior UK industry representative on the ASD/AIA SX000i International Working Group and is the author of Chapter 3 (Use of the S Series of IPS specifications in an IPS program) of the specification. Further, Mark sits as an industry expert on several UK Team Defence Information working groups addressing IPS and international specification implementation challenges. Recently, he has participated, as a founder member, in the establishment of the UK Chapter of the Council of Logistics Engineering Professionals to gain formal recognition of the Logistics Engineering discipline and its importance in delivering operational readiness and availability.

Mark is married with two adult children and lives in a rural setting in South Somerset, England.  

Brian Stewart

Senior Manager, International Strategic Partnerships
Boeing Defense, Space & Security

Brian Stewart is the Senior Manager of International Strategic Partnerships (ISP) at Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS). Brian is responsible for the partnerships and industrial participation in Australia, India, Taiwan and Japan. Brian leads Boeing’s participation in Australia’s Global Supply Chain Program with his team that make up the Office of Australian Industry Capability (OAIC) at Boeing. The OAIC has delivered well over $800M AUD in export contracts to Australian suppliers since it joined the program in 2007. As a 17-year Boeing employee, Brian has held senior roles in Supply Chain, Commercial Sales Contracts, 737 Program Management, and Strategy. 

Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, AO, DSC

Chief of Army
Australian Army

Dr Jack Watling

Senior Research Fellow, Land Warfare
Royal United Services Institue

General (Retired) David Berger

Commandant of the United States Marine Corps (2019-2023)

Geraldine Doouge (Moderator)

Journalist and Broadcaster
Australian Broadcasting Corporation

Professor Genevieve Bell, PhD (Moderator)

Vice Chancellor
Australian National University

General James Rainey

Commanding General
United States Army Futures Command

Lieutenant General Natasha Fox, AM, CSC

Chief of Personnel
Australian Defence Force

Lieutenant General Roy M. Galido

Commanding General
Philippine Army

Ms Kathryn McMullan

Director of the Australian Geospatial Intelligence Organisation
Australian Government

Eric DiStasi

Vice President
Aerojet Rocketdyne Strategy and Business Development & Communications at L3Harris Technologies

Eric DiStasi is Senior Director, Strategy, in the Aerojet Rocketdyne segment of L3Harris Technologies. In this position, DiStasi is responsible for leading growth strategies and initiatives that enhance Aerojet Rocketdyne’s competitive posture.

Prior to joining AR in February of 2024, DiStasi led Enterprise Strategy & Planning for L3Harris, within the Corporate Strategy & Development organization. In this position, DiStasi was responsible for managing enterprise-level initiatives that accelerated L3Harris’ Trusted Disruptor strategy, including playing a critical role in the acquisitions of Aerojet Rocketdyne and Viasat Tactical Data Links. DiStasi led the company’s annual Joint Strategic Planning process and key strategic initiatives, inclusive of competitor and market assessments intended to inform the strategic direction of the company. Additionally, DiStasi conceptualized and advanced inorganic M&A / venture capital roadmaps, facilitated proactive pipeline management and qualified strategic investment opportunities.

DiStasi joined L3Harris in 2021 from Lockheed Martin where he served within the Corporate Strategy & Development organization as Head of M&A and Venture Capital Strategy.

DiStasi began his career at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation and held roles of increasing responsibility in several key areas, including Operations, UH-60 BLACK HAWK Program Management, International Business Development / Capture (Asia Pacific), and Corporate Strategy & Development.

DiStasi holds a Bachelor of Science in history from Southern Connecticut State University, a master’s degree in business administration from the University of New Haven, and a Master of Arts in Leadership from Albertus Magnus College.

L3Harris Technologies is the Trusted Disruptor in the defense industry. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our 50,000 employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

David Kuehn

Director Strategic Campaigns
NIOA Australia & New Zealand

David joined NIOA in June 2020 as the Deputy Director of the Lethality program and oversaw the Approach to Market for Sniper and Close Combat Systems.  Following this successful completion of work, David moved to the role of Director Strategic Campaigns and is now heavily involved in Australia’s future Guided Weapons program, and the opportunities for Australian industry.

Located in Melbourne, David’s experience in Defence spans nearly twenty years, and has ranged from working on projects such as Defence ICT programs, the 2016 Force Structure Review, and Abrams upgrade program.  Prior to working at NIOA, David was a Senior Principal Consultant at Qinetiq Australia, and a Manager at Capgemini Australia.

David also has private industry sector consulting experience, having worked as a project manager for National Australia Bank, Fosters, and SP Ausnet; in addition, David has significant ICT credentials as an Oracle database developer, and has worked for a number of clients in New Zealand, England and Scotland.

David holds a Bachelor and Masters in Defence and Strategic Studies, as well as a Bachelor of Commerce degree, and has been published in the Australian Army Journal.  

Anthony Weymouth

Head - Defence, Advanced Manufacturing & Space
Australian Trade and Investment Commission

Anthony commenced in his current role in October 2020.

Anthony has held numerous senior positions with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission over the past 20 years, both in Australia and internationally. Prior to taking up his current role, Anthony was the Senior Trade Commissioner for Central Europe, Russia & CIS based in Warsaw. He has also worked in the Philippines, the United States, the Pacific, Malaysia, Mexico and the United Arab Emirates.

He has over 30 years’ experience working in international trade across a range of sectors and countries and understands the challenges of operating in different markets. Anthony has an excellent understanding of Australia’s export and investment capability and the marketing strategies adopted across a range of industries.

Prior to joining the Australian Trade and Investment Commission he worked for the Vestey Group in the Middle East where he was responsible for developing regional operational and marketing strategies.

John Brosnan

Defence & Security Director - United Kingdom
Austrade

John was appointed as UK Defence & Security Director for the Australian Trade & Investment Commission (Austrade) in May 2021.  Prior to this, he worked in the UK defence sector in both government and industry. Much of his experience has involved operating at the interface between the two.

Immediately before joining Austrade, John spent 12 years with BAE Systems in the UK and overseas, in a range of senior business development roles.  Most recently, as Group Head of Government Relations, John managed the Company’s relationships with the UK Government, Parliament, and the EU.  Before this, as Managing Director for Asia, John led the Company’s operations across the region for six years, based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Mathew Cantagallo

Defence and Security Director - United States of America
Austrade

Mathew D. Cantagallo joined the Australian Trade and Investment Commission as the US Defence & Security Director from Illinois Tool Works (ITW). At ITW, Mathew was the National Sales Manager for North America in charge of a team of fourteen regional sales reps and application engineers selling MRO lubricants and cleaners for the food, manufacturing, and aerospace sector. Before ITW, Mat served as a Business Investment Manager for the State of Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) focused on lead generation strategies for Virginia to targeted industry executives and site selection consultants.

Prior to joining VEDP, Mat served as an East Coast Regional Sales Manager for TT Electronics where he marketed and sold optoelectronics sensors for the Medical, Aerospace and Industrial Markets. Mat has also worked as International Defence Sales Manager for Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC), specializing in naval inertial navigation sensor sales in the Oceanic, Asian, Middle East and Eastern Europe markets.

Specifically in Australia, Mat served as NGC’s international capture manager for several competitive direct commercial sale (DCS) contracts including ANZAC NavDDS, Canberra Class LHD navigation suite, FFG-7 SINS nav upgrades, and the Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) Navigation and SPQ-9B horizon search radar build.

Mat served in the US Navy active duty deployed from 1996 to 2004 as a Nuclear Electrician’s Mate on USS Michigan (SSBN-727) and a Surface Warfare Officer onboard USS Frederick (LST-1184) and USS Fletcher (DD-992). Education includes Naval Nuclear Engineer graduate of the US Navy Nuclear Power School, the University of Florida (B.S. in Chemistry), and American Graduate School (Masters of Acquisition Management) and has recently completed a graduate paralegal program at George Washington University’s.

Jim Lowther

Defence & Security Director – United Arab Emirates
Austrade

Jim commenced his current role as UAE Defence & Security Director for the Australian Trade & Investment Commission in April 2021. Prior to this Jim was the Defence Attaché at the British Embassy in Abu Dhabi for three years during which time he acted as the Military Diplomat manage all aspects of Military Relations and activity between the UK and the UAE, including Defence Sales, training, exercises, and Operations. Military advisor to Her Majesty’s Ambassador.

Jim has also held various positions including the Chief of Staff Higher Command with the UK Defence Academy, Senior Policy Officer UK Ministry of Defence, Operations Director (Maritime) with the Defence and Equipment Support of the UK Royal Nay. Prior to these roles, Jim served in the Royal Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer, UK Maritime Component Commander in Bahrain and the Commanding Officer Type 23 Frigate HMS Montrose.

Mathew Cantagallo

Defence and Security Director - United States of America
Austrade

Mathew D. Cantagallo joined the Australian Trade and Investment Commission as the US Defence & Security Director from Illinois Tool Works (ITW). At ITW, Mathew was the National Sales Manager for North America in charge of a team of fourteen regional sales reps and application engineers selling MRO lubricants and cleaners for the food, manufacturing, and aerospace sector. Before ITW, Mat served as a Business Investment Manager for the State of Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) focused on lead generation strategies for Virginia to targeted industry executives and site selection consultants.

Prior to joining VEDP, Mat served as an East Coast Regional Sales Manager for TT Electronics where he marketed and sold optoelectronics sensors for the Medical, Aerospace and Industrial Markets. Mat has also worked as International Defence Sales Manager for Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC), specializing in naval inertial navigation sensor sales in the Oceanic, Asian, Middle East and Eastern Europe markets.

Specifically in Australia, Mat served as NGC’s international capture manager for several competitive direct commercial sale (DCS) contracts including ANZAC NavDDS, Canberra Class LHD navigation suite, FFG-7 SINS nav upgrades, and the Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) Navigation and SPQ-9B horizon search radar build.

Mat served in the US Navy active duty deployed from 1996 to 2004 as a Nuclear Electrician’s Mate on USS Michigan (SSBN-727) and a Surface Warfare Officer onboard USS Frederick (LST-1184) and USS Fletcher (DD-992). Education includes Naval Nuclear Engineer graduate of the US Navy Nuclear Power School, the University of Florida (B.S. in Chemistry), and American Graduate School (Masters of Acquisition Management) and has recently completed a graduate paralegal program at George Washington University’s.

Professor Emily Hilder

Head of Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator

As Head of the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA), Professor Hilder has led the establishment of ASCA, which is accelerating the development and transition into service of disruptive solutions to priority defence challenges at the pace and scale required to deliver advantage to our war fighters. She is also currently Executive Chair of the Maritime Systems Group for the Technical Cooperation Program.

Professor Hilder joined Defence as Chief Maritime Division in Defence Science and Technology Group in November 2020, and held the role of Chief Platforms from July 2022 to April 2023. Prior to joining Defence she was Director of the Future Industries Institute and Deputy Director of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Research Hub for integrated devices for end-user analysis at low levels at the University of South Australia.

She is a graduate of the University of Tasmania where she completed her PhD in analytical chemistry in 2000. Following postdoctoral positions at Johannes Kepler University (Austria) and the E.O. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (United States of America) she returned to Australia and the University of Tasmania (UTAS) in 2004 where she held two ARC Fellowships (APD, Future Fellowship) as well as positions as Assistant Dean of Graduate Research and Head of Chemistry. She was inaugural Director of the ARC Training Centre for Portable Analytical Separation Technologies before relocating to the University of South Australia in 2016. Her research is the field of analytical chemistry and materials science and is focused on the design and application of new materials which can be used to improve analytical measurements. Her work has led to commercial and field adoption in separation science, bioanalysis, disease diagnosis, environment and food science, defence and national security.

Leslie Babich

Director
SOFWERX

Leslie Babich joined the DEFENSEWERX team to lead SOFWERX in Tampa, FL in October 2020. As the Director of SOFWERX, Leslie provides operational and personnel oversight while developing and implementing business plans that optimize results for its government partner, the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).

Leslie brings 20+ years of special operations experience where she served as an MC-130 Pilot in Air Force Special Operations Command and held various leadership positions to include squadron command, Director of the Commander’s Action Group at Headquarters, Air Force Special Operations Command, and Commander, Joint Special Operations Air Component - Central.  She also served as the Fixed-Wing Assessment Director and Chief of Program Analysis and Evaluation at the United States Special Operations Command in the Force Structure, Requirements, Resources and Strategic Assessment Directorate. During her service, she deployed multiple times in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Enduring Freedom-Philippines, Iraqi Freedom, and Inherent Resolve. Prior to joining SOFWERX, Leslie was employed as a Business Unit Manager with Jabil Defense and Aerospace in Saint Petersburg, FL.

Leslie received her Bachelor of Science in Management from the Air Force Academy, her Master of Arts in Counseling and Leadership from the University of Colorado, and her Master of Science in International Strategic Studies from the Air War College at Maxwell AFB.  

Ann-Maree Palmer

Director
Global Supply Chain Program

In August 2022 Ann-Maree became the Director of the Global Supply Chain Program within the Australian Industry Capability Delivery Branch in the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group. The Australian Industry Capability Division plays a major role in advancing the Defence-industry partnerships.

The Global Supply Chain Program which is a key export initiative within Defence that provides Australian companies with opportunities in the international supply chains of Defence Program Primes. The GSC Program, in conjunction with the Australian Industry Capability (AIC) Program, are Australia’s industrial participation programs. 

She is supported by team members is Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory.

Since becoming the Director, Ann-Maree has led a program of transformation with the aim of increasing the number of Program Primes through an ongoing Approach to Market scheduled to conclude in Quarter 1 2024.  The increase in the number Program Primes will assist more Australian Suppliers to gain inroads into diverse Global Supply Chains.

Jo Murtagh

Head of Sales and Marketing
AW Bell

Chris Deeble AO, CSC

Deputy Secretary
Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG) in the Department of Defence

Terri Benson

Managing Director
Birdon Group

Terri has held a range of executive and non-executive director roles in the government, utility and private infrastructure sectors. Prior to taking on her current role at Birdon, she was the Managing Director of the Victorian Government’s water services company, South East Water.

Terri has previously held senior executive roles such as the CEO at SEQ Water and Managing Director of Essential Energy. As a graduate of Western Sydney University and Harvard Business School, Terri has built a career on the strength of her expertise in finance, corporate services and strategy. Terri currently serves on the board of Essential Energy.

Terri is passionate about accelerating the continued growth of women in both leadership roles within Birdon and female representation in the trades. Terri believes that diversity at every level of the organisation is vital to progress.

Chris Deeble AO, CSC

Deputy Secretary of Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG) in the Department of Defence

Chris has extensive experience spanning the defence, industry and commercial sectors and working with Government. He also served for 37 years in the Australian Defence Force, most notably as an Air Vice-Marshal.

His most recent appointment was Chief Executive at Northrop Grumman Australia. Prior to that he worked for Airservices Australia as the program executive for OneSKY, responsible for delivering the Civil Military Air Traffic Management System for Australia.

Chris returns to CASG after previously holding the role of Senior Program Manager where he managed more than $25 billion of complex acquisition and sustainment programs including the Joint Strike Fighter, Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control, Multi Role Tanker Transport and Collins Class Submarine.

Chris has a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Sydney. He was awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC) in 2007, and recognized in 2016 as an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO).

Chris is married to Donna and they have five adult children. They enjoy travel, movies and  spending time with family.

Air Marshal Leon Phillips OAM

Chief of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (CGWEO)

As an engineer and program manager, Air Marshal Leon Phillips has over 36 years of extensive experience across Defence, with a proven reputation for establishing highly effective teams to deliver complex aerospace projects and manage their in-service support. In May 2023, on promotion to Air Marshal, he was appointed the inaugural Chief to head the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Group.

His junior appointments spanned a range of materiel support, engineering and staff roles supporting the F-111, Classic Hornet and Headquarters Northern Command. In 2008, Air Marshal Phillips was posted to the Airborne Early Warning and Control Program as Engineering Manager in Seattle USA, culminating in him accepting the first two E-7 Wedgetail aircraft.

Promoted to Group Captain in 2012, he was appointed as the Project Director responsible for the $8 billion portfolio of Maritime Surveillance projects, where he guided the Air Force’s P-8A acquisition through Government approval and established the initial procurements. Air Marshal Leon Phillips was then appointed as Officer Commanding, Surveillance and Control Systems Program Office, responsible for the acquisition and sustainment of assigned airspace surveillance, control, and communications systems for the Australian Defence Force.

In 2017 he was promoted to Air Commodore and given responsibility for the acquisition and sustainment of Air Force’s maritime patrol, airborne surveillance and aircrew training capabilities as well as fleetwide-enabling aerospace materiel.

In 2019, Air Marshal Leon Phillips joined the Chief Information Officer Group and was responsible for connecting Defence Groups and Services with ICT solutions, and subsequently involved in integrating major weapon systems into the strategic ICT network.

In 2022, he was promoted to Air Vice-Marshal and appointed as the Head of Aerospace Systems Division within Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, responsible for the materiel acquisition and sustainment for all of Air Force’s airborne air combat, surveillance and air mobility capabilities.

Air Marshal Leon Phillips has a degree in Electronic Engineering, Masters in Project Management and an Executive Masters in Business. He is also a Master Project Director with the Australian Institute of Project Management and a Fellow of Engineers Australia. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2018 for his work in complex acquisition projects and for mentoring staff.

Air Marshal Leon Phillips is married to his best friend and mentor Air Commodore (retired) Angie Castner, and has four adult children. His interests include a lifelong obsession with field hockey, having played in Australia’s National Hockey League and competing for Australia at the Masters level. In his spare time he also enjoys cycling and cooking.

Navinda Kottege

Research Director for Robotics
Computer Vision and Distributed Sensing Systems at CSIRO's Data61

Navinda is the Research Director responsible for Robotics, Computer Vision and Distributed Sensing Systems at CSIRO’s Data61. He was the Principal Investigator for the CSIRO Data61 team that competed and won second place at the DARPA Subterranean Challenge finals in 2021. Navinda initiated and led legged robot research within CSIRO since 2011, with a focus on navigation in unstructured environments. He is a senior member of the IEEE, and a former Chair of the IEEE Queensland joint chapter for Control Systems/Robotics and Automation Societies. He is also an Adjunct Professor at the Queensland University of Technology.

Amanda Holt

Chief Executive Officer
SYPAQ Group

With a career spanning across the defence and technology sectors, Amanda brings a wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of innovation and enterprise-level solutions to address some of Defence’s toughest challenges, seeing Amanda recognised as the inaugural Defence Connect Executive of the Year in 2019, and leading SYPAQ to be recognised as the Australian Financial Review’s Most Innovative Company for 2023.

As the Chief Executive Officer of SYPAQ, a leading engineering and systems integration company demonstrating the innovation potential of local defence industry, Amanda has consistently demonstrated her capability to lead and influence complex organisational improvements across technology, plans, and people. Her collaborative approach has consistently delivered effective results, from the boardroom to the battlespace.

Amanda is proud to describe SYPAQ’s contribution to the autonomous systems industry as the renaissance of the Australian Aerospace industry. “Fishermans Bend was the original home of Australian Aerospace, so establishing our advanced manufacturing facility and Defence Autonomy Centre of Excellence here in Port Melbourne pays homage to this important part of Australia’s innovation and industrial heritage”.

Beyond her professional achievements, Amanda remains actively engaged in various professional organisations, and continues to be active in the engineering disciple, as a Fellow and Engineering Executive of Engineers Australia. She is also a valuable member of the RMIT Aerospace Engineering Advisory Board, the Defence Council Victoria, industry co-chair of the Defence Maritime Environmental Working Group (MEWG), and co-chair on the Army’s Land Environment Working Group (LEWG). 

Amanda has recently been appointed as Non-Executive Director for PWR Group Holdings and CEA Technologies – two innovative Australian advanced technology businesses.

Major General A.J Rawlins DSC, AM

Head Force Design
Australian Defence Force

MAJGEN Anthony (Tony) Rawlins is currently serving as Head Force Design.

MAJGEN Rawlins has fulfilled a number of staff, training and representational appointments including Divisional Officer at ADFA (1996-1998), Aide-de-Camp to the Governor General (1997-1998), Instructor at Australian (2008) and Canadian Command and Staff Colleges (2009-2010), and Colonel – Plans at Headquarters 1st Division/DJFHQ (2010-2012) and Director General – Military Strategic Commitments (2014 – 2016). His most recent command was as Commander of the 7th Combat Brigade (2016-2018). He served as Deputy Chief of Army from 2019-2021.

Operationally he has served as a military observer on UNTSO (1999) and deployed as the Commanding Officer of Overwatch Battle Group West – 2 (OBG(W)-2) in Iraq from Nov 2006 – Jun 2007. He most recently deployed as the Chief of Joint Operations (CJ3) on Headquarters International Security Assistance Force (HQ ISAF) from Jan – Oct 2014.

MAJGEN Rawlins was awarded a Distinguished Service Cross for command of OBG(W)-2 on operations. In 2013 he was awarded a Chief of Army Commendation for his joint amphibious capability development work at HQ 1 Div/DJFHQ (2010-2012), and SEC/CDF Commendation for his work in transferring the Bushmaster into service with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (2018). He was appointed as an Officer of the Order of Australia in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours List.

MAJGEN Rawlins has completed a Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Bachelor of Laws (Honours), and three Masters Degrees in Management, Arts and Defence Studies. In 2011 he was admitted as a Barrister/Solicitor to the ACT Supreme Court.  

He and his wife Sarah have a young son, Zachary. His leisure interests include all motorcycling genres, mountain biking, kayaking, and playing music.

Bec Shrimpton

Director
Defence, Strategy and National Security at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute

Bec has more than 20 years’ experience in policy, operational and corporate roles in the Australian Department of Defence and in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Previous roles also include Head of Defence, Space and Infrastructure at Austrade, and Bec was Senior Advisor - Major Powers to the Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2019-2020.

Her defence experience includes a posting as Counsellor Defence Strategic Policy in the Australian Embassy in Washington DC from 2015-2017. She led the MH-17, and the Iraq and Syria Task Forces in International Policy Division in Defence in 2014, and held a range of positions in International and Strategic Policy Divisions, VCDF Group and in the Office of the Chief Operating Officer from 2001. In 2008 Bec led the establishment of the Australian Civil-Military Centre and then led a program of work on counterinsurgency and stabilisation operations.

Bec completed the Defence and Strategic Studies Course at the Australian War College in 2013 and is a Fellow of the College. She has a Masters of Strategic Studies (with Honours) from the Australian National University and a Masters of Strategic Studies from Deakin University. Bec is an Alumni of the Munich Young Leaders Forum (2015) and a Fellow of the Abshire-Inamori Leadership Program (2017) at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington DC.

Advisory Boards: Quad Investor Network, Women in International Security – Australia.

Gary Stewart

Chief Executive
Australia Sector QinetiQ Group plc

Gary Stewart joined QinetiQ in May 2023 as Chief Executive of QinetiQ’s Australia Sector. Gary leads QinetiQ’s global threat representation offering and multi-national Sector, comprising; Australia (including the recent acquisition of Air Affairs), Target Systems (UK and Canada) and Germany. Headquartered in Canberra, the Australia Sector has more than 1,200 employees worldwide.

Before joining QinetiQ, Gary was Managing Director of Rheinmetall Defence Australia where he was responsible for strategy and operational delivery in the Asia Pacific region. Gary has a proven track record of transforming and growing businesses, with more than 20 years of experience within the defence industry in the US, Canada, UK, Germany and Australia. He is an engineer and served in the Royal Australian Air Force for 11 years.

Gary has a degree in Electrical Engineering from University of NSW and a Masters of Science, Aerosystems Engineering from Loughborough University.

Steve Wadey OBE

Group Chief Executive
QinetiQ Group plc

Steve joined QinetiQ as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in April 2015. QinetiQ is a FTSE 250 defence and technology business with over 8,500 employees globally and an annualSteve joined QinetiQ as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in April 2015. QinetiQ is a FTSE 250 defence and technology business with over 8,500 employees globally and an annual turnover of circa £2bn. QinetiQ’s scientists and engineers enable mission critical capability in both defence and security markets. Following a successful five-year strategic transformation programme, Steve is currently leading the development and implementation of the next phase of transformation to build an integrated global defence and security company over the next five years to serve the needs of the Australia, United Kingdom and United States customers and their allies. The strategy is underpinned by business and cultural change to deliver improved operational performance and sustainable growth.

Previously, Steve was the UK Managing Director and Technical Director of MBDA, a missile systems business with over 10,000 employees in France, Italy, Germany, Spain and the United States as well as the United Kingdom. Steve played a central role in transforming the operational performance of MBDA in the UK, developing and implementing the Team Complex Weapons initiative with the UK Customer and fostering European cooperation. From 2013, Steve helped establish the UK Defence Growth Partnership (DGP) as the Industry Co-chair, alongside the Minister for Business and Enterprise.

In the 2015 Queen's birthday honours list, Steve was awarded an OBE for services to the UK Defence Sector. In March 2016, Steve was appointed as Chair of the UKTI Defence and Security Organisation (UKTI DSO) Industry Liaison Board, playing a crucial role in identifying export opportunities and maximising UK export success. In March 2022, Steve was re-appointed as Co-Chair of the DGP, alongside the Minister for Defence Procurement and Minister for Exports, DIT.

Steve is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society, the Institution of Engineering and Technology and the Royal Academy of Engineering. In 2013 he was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Science by Cranfield University.

Steve graduated from Cardiff University with a first class honours degree in Electrical and Electronic engineering and commenced his career with British Aerospace in1989. He enjoys spending time with his wife and three children.

Professor Alan Duffy

Pro Vice Chancellor
Flagship Initiatives at Swinburne University of Technology

James Tennant

BOKA Holdings
Army Reservist and ASPI Fellow

James Tennant, currently residing in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, is a seasoned investor and corporate leader with deep interests and investments in diverse fields such as Quantum, Artificial Intelligence, Space, CyberSec, Machine Learning, Internet of Things, Drones, Enterprise Infrastructure, and Autonomous Vehicles. His professional journey, spanning across different continents and industries, uniquely positions him at the intersection of finance, defence, and technology including artificial intelligence.

James is an Partner at BOKA Holdings, a leading AUKUS Investment House in London, Sydney and New York. His key role at BOKA is complemented by his service as an Officer in the Australian Army, where he specialises in Capability Development. He is also a Senior Partner at Gilmour Space Technologies, an Australian-based rocket company innovating in the field of low-cost small satellite launch vehicles.

James holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a specialisation in International Business from the University of Sydney, is a Graduate of Applied Finance at Macquarie University, and holds management courses in Private Equity and Venture Capital from Harvard Business School. He has also completed the Company Directors Course at the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

​Suraj Sethi

Director
Markforged

Suraj Sethi Markforged's director across Australia and New Zealand. He has an extensive background in the engineering, design and manufacturing sectors having been in the industry for almost 15 years.

Ben Sorensen

Director
EPE Trusted to Protect

Ben works with EPE Oceania and is Consortium Director of ELO2, a 22 member industry-research collaboration to design and build Australia's first lunar rover and to undertake a lunar mission for the Australian Space Agency with NASA. His focus is leadership of industry-research collaborations to secure and grow prosperity for Australia, and he works closely with Defence and Space organisations and technical experts to develop and operationalise novel capabilities in cyber security, AI/ML, robotics & autonomous systems, and other critical technologies in the national interest.

He has held board and committee roles for public and private companies, was Board member for the Cybersecurity CRC, and was CSIRO Data61 Commercial Director. While at CSIRO he led Enterprise, Defence & National Security collaborations, led research collaborations with Defence Primes, led the CSIRO-DARPA relationship, the CSIRO and DSTG collaboration, and held committee roles for Defence and National Security. In 2021 Ben and his team were awarded a Eureka Price for Safeguarding Australia.

Ben chairs a Board Committee for Netball Queensland and has been a judge for the Brisbane Lord Mayor's Business Awards since 2014.

Judd McCann

Program Director
The Akana Group Inc.

An accomplished strategic and operational leader, Judd has over 20 years’ experience in complex, high-risk program management focused in the defence, mining and engineering sectors. Having served multiple tours in conflict regions Judd has worked internationally across North America, the Middle East and Australasia and is currently focused on Federal (USA) programs in the Indo-Pacific region. Judd’s core skill is designing new programs and building them for the ground up, with recent success in securing new Federal (USA) prime contracts and previously establishing and growing successful specialized engineering companies. Judd is a well-regarded leader and industry expert and is a regular speaker at key defence events.

Abhineet Jain

Heads the Sales & Business Development for Asia Pacific
Blacksky

Abhineet Jain, Heads the Sales & Business Development for Asia Pacific at Blacksky and is based in Singapore. Abhineet has been active in the Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry Industry for the last 28 years and has served various roles in technical, sales and business development. Before joining Blacksky, he was APAC lead for the Enterprise Global Business Development at Maxar. He has done his Post Graduate Research in the field of Climate Change and Forest Productivity from Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), DehraDun, Department of Space, India. Forestry, Environment and Disaster Management are among his favourite areas where he has been promoting the use of Remote Sensing.

BlackSky is a leading provider of real-time geospatial intelligence, satellite imagery and related data analytic products, services, and mission systems. We monitor activities and facilities worldwide by harnessing the world’s emerging sensor networks and by leveraging our own constellation of small optical imaging satellites (“smallsats”). Since 2014, BlackSky has been processing millions of observations from our own smallsat constellation, as well as a variety of space, Internet of Things (IoT), and terrestrial based sensors and data feeds.

Sam Kirkwood

Research and Development Engineer
HEO

Sam graduated from UNSW in 2021 with a double degree in physics and computer science. She began her career at HEO as a graduate research engineer, quickly gaining valuable experience in Australia's space industry and the dynamic environment of a startup. Sam has enjoyed contributing to innovative research projects at HEO, helping shape the future of commercial non-Earth imagery.

In her current role as a Research and Development Engineer, Sam is focused on analysing non-Earth imagery to derive valuable data for HEO's customers and developing new methods to gain insights from this data. She is involved in creating cutting-edge software tools that enhance our understanding of satellites and other space objects such as attitude estimation. Additionally, Sam has honed skills in 3D modelling and data analysis.

Looking ahead, Sam aims to deepen her expertise in remote sensing and explore the numerous applications of this data. She is passionate about contributing to projects that promote space sustainability, as she believes in the importance of taking care of our planet and the space surrounding it.

Philip Citowicki

Strategy & Business Development Lead for Space
Lockheed Martin Australia

Philip Citowicki is the Strategy & Business Development Lead for Space at Lockheed Martin Australia. He was previously the Executive Officer of the Space Industry Association of Australia (SIAA). Philip was previously employed as an adviser to Australia’s Foreign Minister and as the Personal Political Aide to Australia’s High Commissioner in the United Kingdom.

An acknowledged thought leader in the public and foreign policy space, Philip has contributed to and featured in respected tier one publications, television programs, and academic institutions. He was a Non-Resident Fellow with US think tank Pacific Forum and is a regular participant in global seminars and development courses hosted by international organizations and government agencies including the U.S. State Department, Australian American Leadership Dialogue, the Hoover Institute and more. Philip maintains comprehensive networks in federal and state politics, the public service, and industry. He has a track record of successful policy development, robust advocacy to government, and building industry relationships.

Nicole Seils

Manager Government Relations and Legislative Affairs
Northrop Grumman Australia

Nicole is an experienced senior executive with more than two and a half decades of prolific activity in the public and private sector in both Australia and the USA. She has depth in specialty areas such as deep-tech, quantum, cyber, defence and space. Nicole brings a wealth of legal, policy and reform campaign expertise.

Some of the notable senior and executive positions Nicole has held are: Head of Government Relations, Lockheed Martin Australia & New Zealand; Chief of Staff and Senior policy advisor to a variety of senior government Cabinet Ministers; Deputy Director-General, Innovation at ACT Health; Co-Chair and Founder of the Women in Defence and Security Network based at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute; Non-Executive Director roles for East Coast Traffic Control (logistics) and Graham Lusty Trailers (advanced manufacturing); and Director on the Australian Rail Track Corporation and Lockheed Martin Partnership Board (relating to technology for train cargo logistics and safe track spacing of trains).

Nicole was also involved in the ASX listed Private Equity company TeamInvest Private Group and sat on their Board level Risk and Compliance Committee, and Investment Committee. She was the Chair of their former Governance Committee and Member of the Allocations Committee for TeamInvest Diversified Growth Fund a private equity arm. Nicole is a longstanding member of the philanthropic group NEXUS.org and held leadership membership on the Organisations Australian Committee for five years (2017-2021). She was the Chair of the NEXUS Australia COVID-19 Action Team in 2020 as well as being a founding member of the New York based NEXUS Global, Space Braintrust, which is currently working closely with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs on the new Space Economy agenda.

Nicole is a credentialed graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, has dual degrees in Law and Commerce and is an admitted Legal Practitioner. She also completed an Internship in the US Senate in 2007, in the Office of Senior lawmaker Senator Christopher J. Dodd (CT-Dem), were she worked on the Foreign Relations Committee and Environmental Reforms agenda. Her legal focus is primarily on constitutional, contract, commercial and intellectual property law, with a growing interest in space law. In 2022, Nicole completed to a HD standard the Competitive Strategy and Innovation course at the London School of Economics. Nicole is also current Chair of the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) - Space Committee.

A lifelong ‘policy wonk’, Nicole is a passionate leader and advocate for Australian innovation and works consistently in support of building Australia’s competitive edge into beneficial, economy-wide export opportunities and sustained growth in her lifetime of service of the continuance and resilience of peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and opportunity creation for all Australians to continue to prosper.

Northrop Grumman solves the toughest problems in space, aeronautics, defence and cyberspace to meet the ever-evolving needs of our customers worldwide. Our 97,000 employees define possible every day using science, technology and engineering to create and deliver advanced systems, products and services.

David Nockels

First Assistant Secretary Defence Trade, Regulation and Industrial Collaboration
Australian Department of Defence

David is the First Assistant Secretary, Defence Trade, Regulation and Industrial Collaboration, in the Australian Department of Defence (formerly Defence Industry Policy Division) and is responsible for Defence Industry International Policy and Defence Export Controls. The Division shapes Defence’s international engagement with industry, supporting deterrence by denial through industrial collaboration. It drives and implements the Government’s policies to expand international industrial engagement, and regulates the export of military and dual-use goods and technologies consistent with Australia’s national interests and international obligations.

David previously held the role of First Assistant Secretary People Policy and Culture. In this role, David was responsible for people policy and employment conditions for both APS and ADF, entry level and graduate recruitment programs, cultural reform, indigenous affairs, diversity and inclusion and learning and development strategies.

Prior to Defence, David worked in the Department of Home Affairs in several areas including identity and biometrics, major procurement activity and contracts related to supporting Regional Processing Centres in Papua New Guinea and Nauru.

David spent a number of years with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on postings including in Washington D.C. and Bangkok.

David also has extensive private sector experience working for multinational companies such as Fujitsu, PA Consulting and Accenture in delivering change management and project management outcomes.

David holds an Executive MBA from the Australian Graduate School of Management, University of New South Wales, a Masters in Security Policy Studies from the George Washington University in the United States, and a Bachelor of Arts from the Australian National University in Canberra.

Air Marshal Leon Phillips OAM

Chief of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO)

As an engineer and program manager, Air Marshal Leon Phillips has over 36 years of extensive experience across Defence, with a proven reputation for establishing highly effective teams to deliver complex aerospace projects and manage their in-service support. In May 2023, on promotion to Air Marshal, he was appointed the inaugural Chief to head the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Group.

His junior appointments spanned a range of materiel support, engineering and staff roles supporting the F-111, Classic Hornet and Headquarters Northern Command. In 2008, Air Marshal Phillips was posted to the Airborne Early Warning and Control Program as Engineering Manager in Seattle USA, culminating in him accepting the first two E-7 Wedgetail aircraft.

Promoted to Group Captain in 2012, he was appointed as the Project Director responsible for the $8 billion portfolio of Maritime Surveillance projects, where he guided the Air Force’s P-8A acquisition through Government approval and established the initial procurements. Air Marshal Leon Phillips was then appointed as Officer Commanding, Surveillance and Control Systems Program Office, responsible for the acquisition and sustainment of assigned airspace surveillance, control, and communications systems for the Australian Defence Force.

In 2017 he was promoted to Air Commodore and given responsibility for the acquisition and sustainment of Air Force’s maritime patrol, airborne surveillance and aircrew training capabilities as well as fleetwide-enabling aerospace materiel.

In 2019, Air Marshal Leon Phillips joined the Chief Information Officer Group and was responsible for connecting Defence Groups and Services with ICT solutions, and subsequently involved in integrating major weapon systems into the strategic ICT network.

In 2022, he was promoted to Air Vice-Marshal and appointed as the Head of Aerospace Systems Division within Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, responsible for the materiel acquisition and sustainment for all of Air Force’s airborne air combat, surveillance and air mobility capabilities.

Air Marshal Leon Phillips has a degree in Electronic Engineering, Masters in Project Management and an Executive Masters in Business. He is also a Master Project Director with the Australian Institute of Project Management and a Fellow of Engineers Australia. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2018 for his work in complex acquisition projects and for mentoring staff.

Air Marshal Leon Phillips is married to his best friend and mentor Air Commodore (retired) Angie Castner, and has four adult children. His interests include a lifelong obsession with field hockey, having played in Australia’s National Hockey League and competing for Australia at the Masters level. In his spare time he also enjoys cycling and cooking.

Daniel Fankhauser

First Assistant Secretary of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO)
Manufacturing Division

Dan Fankhauser is a defence acquisition specialist, with extensive experience in program management, international cooperation, industry engagement, contracting, export licensing and policy implementation.

As First Assistant Secretary of the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Manufacturing Division, Dan is responsible for sponsorship and delivery of domestic missile and munitions production.

As First Assistant Secretary Infrastructure since May 2021, Dan managed the development, construction, leasing, licensing and disposal of the Defence estate – the largest real estate portfolio in the Australian Government. In this capacity, Dan supported an independent audit of the Defence estate in 2023 and the implementation of priorities stemming from the Defence Strategic Review.

Dan has held a range of senior and representational roles within Defence, assisting Australian businesses through the global COVID-19 pandemic and in establishing the early foundations of Australia’s national naval shipbuilding enterprise.

Dan previously held diplomatic accreditation to represent Australia’s acquisition and sustainment interests with the United States and Canada from the Australian Embassy in Washington DC from 2011-16. This coincided with a period of unprecedented growth in Foreign Military Sales and armaments cooperation programs with the United States, as part of the recapitalisation of the Royal Australian Air Force and rapid acquisitions to support operational deployments. During his tenure, Dan established the successful G’Day USA: US- Australian Dialogue on Defence Industries and facilitated significant new export opportunities for Australian industry.

Dan has extensive experience providing strategic advice to Government, including as Senior Capability & Industry Advisor to the Minister for Defence during the development and release of the 2009 Defence White Paper and as Chief of Staff to the Minister for Defence Materiel in 2010-11.

Dan served for more than a decade as an officer in the Royal Australian Navy, qualifying as a mine warfare specialist in 2003. Dan is a graduate of the Australian Defence Force Academy and holds a Bachelor of Arts (Politics) and Master of Management (Governance) from the University of New South Wales.

Air Vice Marshal Colin Thorne AO

Acting Head of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO)
Systems Division

Air Vice-Marshal Colin (Col) Thorne AO (Retd) has temporarily returned to full-time duty to maintain the momentum of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Division while Air Vice-Marshal Gerry van Leeuwen is overseas on professional development.

Since retiring as a Partner of KPMG in late 2021 where he established and grew a successful Engineering, Project Delivery and Asset Management advisory practice serving the defence & national security, transport, mining, oil & gas, power and social infrastructure sectors, Col has maintained a portfolio of advisory roles as a either consultant, board member or Air Force Reservist, specialising in business strategy and governance, and business growth.   He is experienced in defence procurement, sustainment and systems engineering and is often called upon to lead commercial negotiations and to facilitate or advise on commercial dispute resolution.

Prior to taking up a KPMG Partnership in 2015, Col held the role of General Manager Land and Maritime (GMLM) (SES3) in the then Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), responsible for shipbuilding, the acquisition and sustainment of maritime systems, vehicles and weapons, and the procurement of explosive ordnance, fuel, uniforms and soldier systems.

Col’s Air Force career culminated with nearly 5 years as Head Aerospace Systems (AVM) at a time of unprecedented recapitalisation of Air Force for which he was recognised with an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2014.  Most of his Air Force career centred on his professional passion for airborne surveillance and Electronic Warfare.  He was involved from inception in the development of the E-7 Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft (and earlier attempts) for which he was recognised with a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2001.

Col has a degree in Electronic Engineering (RMIT University) and a Master of Science in Military Electronic Systems Engineering (Cranfield University, UK).  He is an Engineer Executive and Fellow of Engineers Australia in the College of Leadership and Management.

Col was born in Atherton in far north Queensland but spent his school years on the Redcliffe Peninsula north of Brisbane. Col now lives near Canberra with his wife of 38 years, Helen, and has an accomplished adult daughter and son spread across Australia.  He is a Rugby Union tragic (Brumbies) but his upbringing also ensures a passion for Rugby League, the Queensland Maroons and the Dolphins.  His happy place is on any estuary or lake on NSW far south coast on his Hobie kayak with fishing rod in hand.

Natalie Bell

Executive Director of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO)
Headquarters

As Executive Director for Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Headquarters, Natalie is responsible for the coordination, and corporate enabling services across GWEO Group. Natalie also leads major organisational reform to ensure GWEO Group’s reprioritised and reallocated workforce meets the priorities outlined in the National Defence Strategy. 

Natalie has held a range of key executive roles in multiple Federal Government agencies. As a Director at the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) she managed a team that delivered Preparation Activities for the Federal Election in 2010. During her eight year tenure at the Department of Home Affairs she was the driving force behind improvements that maximised effectiveness of the ABF in process, equipment and services. As Director in the ABF’s Enforcement Technologies & Logistics (ET&L) team she lead teams across Australia who provided a range of operational capabilities used by the ABF such as the upgrade to the container x-ray screening capability located at Australia’s major sea ports. As the Transition Project Manager for the ABF of a multibillion dollar procurement process, she consolidated four programmes consisting of multiple contracts into a single integrated programme to support approximately 28,000 recipients in resolving their immigration status.

Natalie has a Masters in Internet Communication from the University of Canberra and enjoys spending time with her family, attending sporting activities and travelling.

Air Commodore Mark Scougall CSC

Director General of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO)
Explosive Materiel Branch

Air Commodore Scougall enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force in 1985, and graduated from Engineer Cadet Squadron (RAAF Frognall) in 1988 with a Bachelor Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. During his early Air Force career, Air Commodore Scougall served in a variety of aircraft maintenance, engineering, and integrated logistics management roles.

In 2006, Air Commodore Scougall was appointed as the inaugural Commanding Officer within the RAAF’s C-17A Globemaster III acquisition project, working with the US Air Force to acquire, and establish the sustainment management system for Australia’s new fleet of C-17A aircraft. Upon return to Australia in 2010, he was promoted to Group Captain within Capability Development Group. Since 2017, he has served in several senior capability development, acquisition and sustainment Program Office roles, including as the Air Domain’s Director of Program Performance and Reporting within Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG); and as Chief of Staff to the Head of Air Force Capability within Air Force Headquarters. Air Commodore Scougall was promoted into the CASG Director-General Explosive Materiel role in 2023.

Affectionately known as ‘Scougs’, Air Commodore Scougall and his wife Mary are proud parents to three adult daughters.

Brigadier Andrew Langford AM

Director General of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO)
Capability Branch

Brigadier Andrew Langford is Director General Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Capability Branch, where he is responsible for the GWEO Roadmap, Warstock uplift, Test and Evaluation, Training and Education, Storage and Distribution, and Disposal and Demilitarisation for the GWEO Enterprise.  

Over the course of his career, Brigadier Langford has held an array of regimental appointments within the Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery (RAA). He is an experienced technical officer, with a background in Capability Management (AHQ) and Delivery (CASG). He was appointed OC P&EE in 2007 and CO JPEU in 2013. Prior to taking up his appointment as CO, he deployed to the Middle East and Afghanistan.

As the SO1 Joint Fires – Army and Director Land Combat Support Program (from 2019), within AHQ, he developed the Artillery Modernisation Plan which led to the most significant reinvestment to date in Defence’s artillery capabilities. As Director, he was responsible for the approval and oversight of 20 major projects across the Joint Fires, Air and Missile defence, and Engineering domains.

In 2023, BRIG Langford was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for exceptional service as Commanding Officer Joint Proof and Experimental Unit, and Deputy Director then Director Land Combat Support Program.

Brigadier James Hunter CSC

Director General of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO)
Manufacturing Development Branch

Brigadier Hunter is an experienced leader, operational planner and capability developer with proficiency across a range of demanding military and Defence enterprise portfolios.

Brigadier Hunter graduated from the Australian Defence Force Academy and subsequently the Royal Military College – Duntroon to the Royal Australian Infantry Corps. He has completed an array of Infantry Regimental appointments commanding at every level from Platoon to Battle-Group. Brigadier Hunter has served in staff and instructional appointments at unit, formation, Combined-Joint Task Force and ADF Headquarters levels. He is a qualified Technical Staff Officer and has completed technical appointments in weapons and equipment test and evaluation programs. He has also served as a Director in the ADF Headquarters’ Force Design Division.

Brigadier Hunter has extensive operational experience in command and staff appointments including humanitarian and disaster relief operations in Australia, and peace-keeping and peace support operations in Timor Leste. He has served as an embedded staff officer in US-led multinational headquarters commanding combat and partner force development operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Coan Harvey

Assistant Secretary of Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO)
Strategy and Plans

Coan has worked across both state and commonwealth departments on matters related to defence, industry, infrastructure and other policy areas. He has previously had experience in budget strategy, communications and advising on the management of the Integrated Investment Program. 

Recently, Coan has joined GWEO Group to head the Strategy and Plans Branch. His responsibilities include industry and international engagement, commercial matters, program management and overall planning for GWEO’s investment program. He was previously Assistant Secretary of the Capability Advice and Analytics Branch within the Defence Finance Group for over four years. 

Coan has a bachelor’s degree in commerce, honours degree in accounting and finance, alongside a master’s degree in public administration. He also is a CPA and has been studying a double degree in computer science and mathematics (on hold this year while managing a busy life).

Originally from Western Australia, Coan makes frequent visits to Perth in order to visit family.

Ha Young Seok

Team Leader
KRIT

Ha Young Seok is a seasoned engineer with over two decades of experience in developing and managing UAV communication systems. He holds a doctorate in electronic engineering from Hanyang University.

Currently serving as the Team Leader and Principal Researcher at the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT), Dr. Seok specializes in C4ISR Systems Technology Planning. His expertise extends to tactical communication technologies, including 5G, satellite communication, and electronic warfare. Dr. Seok's career highlights include leading the UAV development team at Korea Aerospace Industries Co., Ltd., where he successfully developed and deployed an unmanned aerial vehicle data link system from 2002 to 2006. His current role at KRIT involves planning, managing, and conducting international joint research in defense technology improvement.

Lokman Limbu

Ex Gurkha soldier

Lokman served in the Australian Defence Force from 1990 to 1998 as a Mechanized Platoon Sergeant and Store Manager. Prior to this, he served in the British Gurkha Regiment (10 GR) from 1970 to 1989, holding roles as Platoon Commander, Company Sergeant Major, Company Quartermaster, and Soldier.

Gab Navuni

Ex Fijian soldier

Gab began his military career in 2000 with the 1st Battalion Irish Guards, training at Pirbright and Catterick before being stationed at Munster Barracks in Germany. After serving in Number One Company, he moved to the Reconnaissance and Sniper Platoons, operating the L115A3 sniper rifle and SA80. His deployments included training in Poland, Canada, Oman, and Belize, and tours in Iraq.

Returning to England, Gab undertook ceremonial duties, including the Queen’s Guard and Trooping the Colour, before further deployments to Northern Ireland, Sinai, and Afghanistan.

Simon O’Connel

Association Director SME, Vic/Tas
B. Bus, Banking and Finance & B. Bus International Trade

With over 20 years’ experience, Simon provides tailored financial solutions to support a company’s growth aspiration when expanding offshore, and winning export or export related contracts. Prior to joining Export Finance Australia, he held a variety of positions in the corporate and commercial banking businesses at Westpac, Bankwest, and NAB.

Brigadier Kurt Brown CSC

Australian Army

Brigadier Kurt Brown grew up in the country New South Wales town of Dubbo. He attended the Australian Defence Force Academy and Royal Military College before graduating into the Royal Australian Corps of Signals. He is the current Director General Systems and Integration within Army Headquarters.

Brigadier Brown has had a diverse range of appointments throughout his career ranging from command, staff and joint, to inter-agency roles. Career highlights include command of the 7th Combat Signal Regiment, appointment as the Australian Defence Adviser to Canada and on exchange with the United States 11th Signal Brigade.

Operationally, Brigadier Brown has served on multiple tours to Afghanistan, Iraq and Timor Leste. He was the Officer Commanding Afghanistan Signal Squadron and the Officer Commanding the Signal Element in Timor Leste. Brigadier Brown was a lead planner in the Multi-National Corp-Iraq communications plan whilst posted as the Engineering Officer for the United States 11th Signal Brigade.

Academically, Brigadier Brown is a graduate from the University of New South Wales Master of Electrical Engineering program. He is a graduate of the Defence Strategic Studies Course and Australian Command and Staff College, attaining a Master of Military Studies from the Australian National University. He is a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Executive Program on Leadership and Innovation. Brigadier Brown is currently undertaking a doctorate on the convergence of physical and electronic manoeuvre on the battlespace.

Brigadier Brown has a keen interest in most sports, particularly Australian Rules football being a passionate St Kilda supporter, and outdoor pursuits such as skiing and running. He is married and has two children.

Kenneth Johnston

Missile Solutions Strategy Development Lead for the Aerojet Rocketdyne segment
L3Harris Technologies

Kenneth Johnston is the Missile Solutions Strategy Development Lead for the Aerojet Rocketdyne segment of L3Harris Technologies. In this position, he is responsible for leading growth strategies and initiatives that enhance Aerojet Rocketdyne’s competitive posture. L3Harris provides a full range of propulsion and power systems for strategic missiles; missile defense; and tactical systems and armaments. Prior to joining Aerojet, Kenneth held similar roles with Dynetics, now part of Leidos, and General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems.