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Over 90 finalists have been announced for the 2026 Defence Connect Defence & National Security Workforce Awards, recognising the sector’s top-performing up-and-comers and the groundbreaking workforce programs that have transformed industry.
Presented in partnership with Atturra, the annual awards celebrate the next generation of defence and national security professionals while also shining a light on innovative programs that are strengthening the sector’s workforce capability.
The awards acknowledge excellence across a broad cross-section of the industry, from high-performing technical, operations and communications specialists under 35 to leading reserve support and training development programs making a tangible impact nationwide.
Organiser Defence Connect confirmed finalists were selected across 17 submission-based categories, spanning both individual and group honours. Entrants competed across six individual and 11 group categories in what organisers described as one of the sector’s most comprehensive workforce recognition programs.
Among the finalists are Douglas De Souza of Lockheed Martin Australia for Best Aerospace Technical Specialist Under 35, William Dayman of DroneShield for Best Project Manager Under 35, and Danielle Harris of BAE Systems Australia for Best Female Technical Specialist Under 35.
Defence and Aerospace Lead at Momentum Markets, Steve Kuper, congratulated this year’s finalists, saying they represent the depth of talent across Australia’s defence industrial base.
“The finalists represent the best and brightest in the nation’s defence industry, and I wish you all the very best of luck,” he said.
Group finalists include Boeing Defence Australia for Best Reservist/Volunteer Support Program, Aurecon for Best Diversity and Inclusion Program or Initiative, and Soldier On for Best Veteran Support Program.
The Defence & National Security Workforce Awards 2026 will culminate in a black-tie and military mess dress ceremony on Thursday, 23 April 2026 at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth.
The event is expected to bring together senior defence leaders, industry executives, academics and innovators, offering attendees the opportunity to network and collaborate with peers from across the sector.
Kuper said the strength of this year’s field reflects the continued growth and maturation of Australia’s defence industry.
“We’re thrilled to see the ongoing development of Australia’s defence sector, and that’s clearly reflected in the calibre of finalists in this year’s awards,” he said.
Finalists were selected through a rigorous judging process incorporating both quantitative and qualitative criteria, including growth, business development, diversity, leadership, innovation, business excellence and contributions to Australia’s defence and national security capability.
The independent judging panel features former senior Australian Defence Force leaders, academics, business executives, entrepreneurs and industry innovators, ensuring entrants receive peer-reviewed recognition of their achievements.
The full list of finalists is available here.
Defence Connect congratulates all finalists and said it looks forward to celebrating their achievements at next year’s ceremony.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
