For Vocational Education and Training (VET) Diploma students seeking a pathway to a promising career, Raihan’s story exemplifies the potential to advance in a meaningful field.
Raihan, a Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Programming) student, initially began his internship with Griffin Marine Services in March 2024, quickly proving his worth and transitioning to a graduate work placement within the organisation.
This achievement not only highlights his dedication and adaptability, but also showcases the opportunities available to VET students through industry partnerships such as the Defence Industry Internship and Graduate Scholarship Program (DIIGS).
Background: A bold move into Information Technology
Raihan was originally a science graduate, completing a Bachelor of Science with a double major in Genetics and Molecular Biology and Biomedical Science from Murdoch University in 2020.
However, after struggling to secure work in his field, he decided to pivot and enrolled at South Metro TAFE, where he studied a Certificate IV in Information Technology (Programming).
Inspired by the chance to gain valuable programming skills, he moved on to a Diploma – hoping to build a career in the competitive but rewarding field of technology.
“Enrolling in TAFE was one of the best decisions I’ve made,” Raihan said.
“Although software engineering is often considered a saturated field, studying part-time allowed me to work while also earning credentials.”
Exploring the Defence Industry with DIIGS
During his studies, Raihan learned about DIIGS from a classmate; although the defence industry wasn’t his initial focus, the chance to work within this essential field opened up new possibilities.
“The opportunity to connect with a defence contractor through DIIGS was an invaluable experience,” said Raihan.
“If I could stay in this field, it would mean a steady career – especially with defence initiatives like AUKUS on the horizon.”
Raihan’s placement at Griffin Marine Services introduced him to the real-world applications of his IT skills in the maritime sector.
Working alongside Griffin’s head office and operational teams, Raihan quickly adapted to the company’s technical and digital systems – making an impact on several key data initiatives that support Griffin’s operations.
His performance prompted Griffin Marine to extend an offer for a graduate position, allowing Raihan to continue his contributions to the defence marine sector.
Hands-On learning and mentorship at Griffin Marine
At Griffin Marine, Raihan had the chance to go beyond what he’d learned in the classroom.
“The amount of knowledge I gained through mentorship and my own work has been immeasurable,” he explains.
One of the highlights of his placement was seeing the vessels arriving at the workshop, adding a tangible connection to the vital work of the defence industry.
Through his work at Griffin, Raihan has developed a strong interest in advancing within the sector – aiming to gain more experience and move into senior roles.
He attributes much of his smooth transition into the defence industry to the support from Programmed Training Services, who assisted him with onboarding and provided guidance throughout his journey.
A word for aspiring VET Students and DIIGS Applicants
To any students considering the DIIGS program, Raihan’s message is straightforward: “Just apply.”
“You never know if DIIGS could be part of your career journey.
“I’m proof that even mature-aged students with a non-traditional path can find a place in the defence industry – it’s an opportunity worth taking.”
Why Griffin Marine supports DIIGS
Griffin Marine’s involvement with DIIGS reflects their commitment to nurturing future talent.
“DIIGS provides us with a valuable pipeline of skilled graduates who bring enthusiasm and innovation to the defence maritime industry,” Griffin Marine General Manager, Chris Stoll, explained.
“We are a national business engaged with a wide range of Defence Industry primes and are actively working on every class of surface vessel in the Navy and Border Force Fleets – this means our students get to experience a wide range of technical, commercial and personnel scenarios.
“We know it sounds cliched; however, people really are the key capability to the defence maritime industry.
“DIIGS allows us to engage with a far wider range of candidates than we would typically have access to, and allows curious candidates to experience an industry that is often not thought of as a career path.
“Programmed Training Services have been excellent in supporting both the candidates and Griffin throughout the process – from initial contact through to the screening process and then into onboarding, it’s been seamless.
“DIIGS offers a unique opportunity for employers to tap into a pool of highly skilled and motivated talent.
“By partnering with DIIGS, employers can access a pipeline of graduates and early-career professionals – like Raihan – who are passionate about the defence industry.
“This program provides a platform for employers to connect with future leaders, foster innovation and strengthen industry-academia collaborations.”
