Vanessa Stothart

Flight Lieutenant Vanessa Stothart graduated in 2018 with a Graduate Diploma in Psychology which has enhanced her senior leadership skills for her role as an Air Traffic Controller.

What was your UNE qualification/s?

Grad Dip Psychology.

Online or on-campus study?

Online.

How was your experience with UNE lecturers?

Fantastic, they were very accommodating and reasonable people.

What was your reason for studying at UNE?

I liked the University and the ability to conduct study online.

Your current job?

Air Traffic Controller, Air Force Officer.

The personal qualities needed to do your job?

Determination, Dynamic, Decisive.

If you weren’t in this line of work, what do you think you’d be doing instead?

Psychologist or Electrician.

Your advice for anyone interested in pursuing this type of career?

It’s a great career, it’s definitely a lifestyle choice which could take you anywhere in Australia, or around the world.

The biggest challenge and biggest achievement you’ve experienced in your work or life in general?

Work achievement – Awarded a Bronze Commendation from the Commander of the Joint Task Force for my work and contributions on an overseas operation.

How has your UNE qualification aided you in your career?

Yes, it has enhanced my senior leadership skills and provided background and knowledge for my position as an Aviation Safety Officer when undertaking investigations.

What inspires you inside work and outside work?

My family, my children, the junior officers I am in charge of and how brilliant they are as people and controllers.

Do you volunteer your time for a community project or organisation?

Not at the moment. I have just returned back to work after maternity leave.

In this time of Covid-19, how has the virus impacted your work?

It has slowed down the pace of operations, ability to travel interstate for work.