Securing Australia’s Sovereign Capability
At REDARC Defence & Space, our greatest asset is our people. The advanced electronics and sovereign capabilities we deliver from our Lonsdale Advanced Manufacturing & Technologies Hub are built on decades of hands-on expertise and a relentless pursuit of quality.
Next month, we bid a fond farewell to Mike Cleaver-Smith, one of our most experienced Senior Electronics Technicians, as he begins a well-deserved retirement. While Mike prepares for his next chapter, his final weeks are focused on two critical missions: delivering the final components for the BAE Systems Ship 1 marine lighting project, and the vital transfer of his knowledge.
The Flinders University Degree Apprenticeship Program
Mike is currently working side-by-side with Christian Turner, a member of our inaugural Electrical / Electronics Degree Apprenticeship cohort. In partnership with Flinders University, this innovative five-year program allows apprentices like Christian to bridge the gap between academic theory and high-tech manufacturing practice.
Their current workbench focus is the final assembly of the marine lighting units for BAE Systems’ Ship 1 (Hunter Class Frigate Program) – a major milestone for REDARC.
“Starting my career at REDARC while studying at Flinders University has been incredible. Bridging the gap between a university lecture and a live assembly floor is exactly what I was looking for.
Having someone like Mike take the time to mentor me while we work on something as significant as the BAE Systems Ship 1 marine lighting is an absolute privilege. He doesn’t just teach the ‘how’, he explains the ‘why’ behind every mission-critical component we build.”
– Christian Turner, Degree Apprentice
A recent Reynella East High School graduate with a passion for robotics, Christian is completing his first rotation in Assembly while simultaneously studying for his Bachelor of Engineering.
“Flinders is enormously proud of this nation-leading program, and our role working with employers central to SA’s defence capabilities.
With many defence industries facing skills shortages, it’s great to see employers like REDARC getting on board and taking the opportunity to develop our future leaders”.
– Professor Chris Brebner, Pro Vice Chancellor, Flinders University
Learn more about Flinders University’s Engineering Apprenticeships
Building a Skilled Defence Workforce in South Australia
This dynamic, decades of hard-earned industry experience meeting the fresh perspective of the next generation, is the heartbeat of modern Australian manufacturing.
Building resilient sovereign industrial capabilities relies entirely on this transfer of specialised skills. By mentoring Christian through the complexities of the Ship 1 marine lighting build, Mike is ensuring that the mastery required for mission-critical defence technology remains right here in South Australia.
REDARC Defence & Space is partnering with MARL International (A Glamox Company) to manufacture and supply 79 different types of lights for each Hunter Class frigate, including bunk and flood lights, weather deck and step lights, general purpose and emergency lights.
A Legacy of Excellence
While we will miss Mike’s presence and unmatched problem-solving skills, we are proud to see him pass the torch. His legacy lives on through the high standards he has instilled in our production team and the physical components currently making their way to BAE Systems.
“I’ve seen how much precision goes into every board we produce. Wrapping up the BAE Systems Ship 1 marine lighting project with Christian by my side has been a fantastic way to finish.
Passing those ‘tricks of the trade’ to him isn’t just about showing him where to solder; it’s about passing on the standard of excellence that defines our sovereign capability. Seeing his passion for robotics and his eagerness to learn gives me great confidence that the future of Australian manufacturing is in safe hands.”
– Mike Cleaver-Smith, Senior Electronics Technician
Please join us in thanking Mike Cleaver-Smith for his outstanding contribution to REDARC and in wishing him the best for his retirement. We also warmly welcome Christian to the team.
The future of sovereign electronics manufacturing is in very capable hands.