In order to keep pace with digital transformation, we need a mechanism for growth. Skills development is key to the continuous development of global defence and space ecosystems, and it starts with leadership.
We need to nurture dual capabilities in both thinking and working, and with the space sector projected to expand, being adaptive leaders is no longer voluntary, it’s a must.
According to Adelaide University’s Dean of the School of Management, Professor Andrew Beer, the space industry is projected to grow at an annual rate of 7.1% over the next five years.
“The Australian Space Agency aims to triple the size of the Australian space economy from $4bn to $12bn by 2030, targeting the creation of 20,000 new jobs,” he says.
“Defence and space industries need people with the right skills and knowledge if they are to grow.
“These are some of the most complex and ambitious projects in our economy, and the demand for highly qualified people able to contribute to the space and defence sectors is white hot.”
Adelaide University’s GEMBA prepares leaders to tackle sector challenges with confidence. With a curated defence and space curriculum, the 18-month program has a strong practical focus on executive leadership and senior-level decision-making, underpinned by the latest defence and space management research.
Developed and delivered in partnership with the University of Exeter (UK) and Carnegie Mellon University (US), and led by internationally recognised academics and industry speakers, GEMBA is a dynamic leadership program.
It’s designed to advance the careers of specialist leaders and redefine the future of defence and space, a blend that’s earning strong support from industry.
Steven Henry, a senior officer and space professional in Defence, agrees the program plays a vital role in helping participants advance to the next level of leadership.
“At its core, the program is an executive MBA, not a specialised course in defence or space,” Henry says.
“While it includes subjects on space and geopolitics, these are framed within the broader goal of developing participants into business leaders with a Master’s-level understanding.
“Innovation doesn’t just magically happen, it requires intention, creativity, and commitment – it’s a process that demands real investment of time and effort.”
A range of organisations have engaged with the program including Boeing Defence, BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin, Space Command, Raytheon, Fleet Space Technologies, the Royal Australian Navy, and Amentum.
Expanding leadership collaboration, enhancing workforce mobility across borders, and building a connected community of professionals is key to strengthening the sector’s supply chain.
The global industry network that students create through GEMBA is an enduring asset that will sustain their careers and impact on the defence and space sectors. That depth of networking is complimented by the breadth achieved from authentically experiencing the perspectives of Australia, the UK and the US through three immersive two-week in-country residentials.
Professor Beer has witnessed firsthand how building a peer network of senior professionals can deeply enrich the student experience.
“It’s through networking and establishing deep connections with others that business leaders achieve their greatest impact, and that is very evident in the defence and space sectors,” he says.
“GEMBA provides a platform for building those high-quality relationships that will sustain industry impact for years to come.”
In addition to learning directly from defence and space experts, students have the chance to meet with the likes of senior legislators, diplomats and defence advisors, as well as senior defence and space industry personnel internationally. Highly engaging online courses are also delivered throughout the program.
GEMBA is designed for uniformed and non-uniformed personnel from small to large defence companies, government and adjacent industries from AUKUS, “Five Eyes” and other allied nations.
Applications are now open to study in 2026. To book a 1:1 appointment or to find out more, visit the Global Executive MBA (Defence and Space) webpage.