Jason’s sea change from the navy to business

DATE: 07.03.07   ISSUE 1, 2007

Mr von Stieglitz is the inaugural winner of the Academy Graduates Association (AGA) scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to academically and professionally outstanding members of the AGA, who are graduates of the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA).

“I began my career in the navy as an officer in 1998 and spent three years in the ADFA studying physics. I specialised as a Seaman Officer upon graduation, and spent the next four years on tours of duty to places such as the Solomon Islands and the Middle East,” he said.

Jason von Stieglitz is the inaugural recipient of the Academy Graduates Association (AGA) scholarship.

Photo: Jason von Stieglitz

Mr von Stieglitz’s last 18 months in the navy were spent in Newcastle as an instructor in aircraft control. He is keen to explore the business world outside a military environment – the key reason behind his decision to enrol in the AGSM MBA program.

“My first few weeks at AGSM repositioned my view of organisations from the inside out, a change from the usual external view as a consumer,” he said.

“The AGA scholarship presents a wonderful opportunity for people in the military seeking a career change. It makes the transition out of the military a little bit easier, and encourages ADFA graduates to combine their military expertise with business skills,” he said.

Mr von Stieglitz is considering a career in technology and innovation upon completing his AGSM MBA. He also has an interest in the finance, electronics and telecommunications industries.

“I want to apply my MBA knowledge and management skills to emerging businesses,” he said.

Mr von Stieglitz said he wanted to be an active contributor to company growth.