Inclusive skies - elevating aerospace through neurodiversity

This morning in Canberra, Celebrating Aerospace Downunder (CAD2025) hosted the Embracing Neurodiversity Breakfast.

With the theme “Transforming the Workplace for Innovation and Inclusion,” the event explored how organisations can create environments that are inclusive and supportive of neurodivergent individuals.

A guest panel was moderated by Lt. Gen. Larry James, USAF (Ret.), Strategic Advisor at SmartSat CRC and Professor of Practice, Space Innovation at Monash Engineering.

Panellists included James Davis, participating as a leader and individual with personal experience of neurodiversity; Mat Jones, Head of Future Business – Defence Delivery, BAE Systems Australia; Lieutenant Colonel Philippa Cleary, SO1 Culture and Capability, Army G1; and Melanie Kovacs Safer Communities, Precincts Delivery Manager, UNSW ADFA Campus.

The discussion delved into practical ways to recruit, support and empower neurodivergent talent from rethinking hiring processes and workplace adjustments, to building cultures of genuine acceptance and understanding.

Speakers also reflected on how education can better prepare neurodiverse individuals for the workforce, and how embracing neurodiversity ultimately drives creativity, innovation and performance.

Learn more about CAD2025 here.