ATC Graduates Rise Up to Join the New Zealand Defence Force

The decision to embark on this journey with the NZDF varies for these graduates. Some are driven by a deep-seated desire to serve their country, while others aim to proudly represent their Pacific and Maori heritage. For many, such as 18 year-old NZSE graduate Jackson Nichol, supporting their families and seeking personal growth are also significant factors:

“What does joining the NZDF mean to me? Serving my country and giving back to my family and the people that raised me,” says Jackson, who in 2023 completed NZSE’s NZ Certificate in Security (Level 3) along with Study Career Preparation – Uniformed Services (Level 3).

When asked about how they’re feeling about the journey ahead, many expressed their excitement as well as feeling nervous.
“I’m probably most excited for being on the field with some of the guys – just bonding together,” says Jackson,