For Sharon Kent, life as an Army Reservist in the Pilbara Regiment is a bit of a balancing act but the Piara Waters local knows the importance of loving what you do. Sharon initially joined the Army Reserve in 1988 and has worked in the Signals Corps, as well as Public Relations. After a seven year break from service, the Lance Corporal re-joined in 2007 because she missed life as a Reservist and hasn’t looked back since.
It’s crucial to stay enthusiastic and motivate those around you to see the overall benefits in all that we do.
- Sharon Kent
Now a Squadron Transport Supervisor at Pilbara Regiment, Sharon sees transferrable qualities from her civilian job with the Department of Corrective Services and her military job with the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
“You gain a high level of integrity, confidentiality and ethical standards. You also gain the ability to work as a team member and to contribute to the overall effectiveness of a team,” Sharon said.
“There have been many memorable moments during my service, but the stand out would be participating in the ‘Soldiers Race’ in the ’89 Military tattoo. I was a member of the only all-female team to participate throughout Australia.”
Sharon has received two awards during her time in the Army Reserve, including the Australian Defence Medal and the Soldiers Medallion, and sees her regiment like a surrogate family.
“Having to balance a civilian career, family and a part-time Army Reserve job takes commitment, flexibility, communication and love. As strange as that may sound, if you don’t love doing those extra things it would be easy to give up. It’s crucial to stay enthusiastic and motivate those around you to see the overall benefits in all that we do,” Sharon said.
The Army Reserve is made up of everyday Aussies ready to step up to the challenge. Reservists help local communities around Australia and abroad, and play an important part in providing the additional officers and soldiers the Australian Army needs.
The Army Reserve is currently recruiting. For further information on the range of roles available in your local area visit:
defencejobs.gov.au or call 13 19 01
