The Royal New Zealand Air Force – with Briarna Blackmore (Air Force)

In this honest and inspiring kōrero, we hear from Aircraftman Briarna Blackmore, who left school early and launched into a bold new path with the Royal New Zealand Air Force. From excelling academically and fast-tracking NCEA levels to deciding that the traditional school route wasn’t for her, Briarna shares the why and how behind making her own way.💥 We cover:Choosing to leave school early and what led to that decisionLife lessons from juggling work, study, and adult responsibilities at 17Applying for the Defence Force—how long it takes and what’s involvedWhat basic training really looks like: uniforms, early wake-ups, punishments, and polishBeing a young woman in a male-dominated fieldHow the military teaches life skills, structure, and disciplineThe camaraderie and chaos of barracks livingHer current role as an Aircraft Technician under training (earning while learning!)Why she’s proud of her path—and why it might be right for you, too✈️ Plus, a heads-up for young wāhine in Aotearoa: the Schools to Skies programme offers Year 13 girls a fully-funded immersive STEM experience in the RNZAF. If Briarna’s story resonates, this could be your next step.🔧 Whether you’re questioning university, seeking structure, or just want a fresh perspective on non-traditional paths—this one’s for you.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your pods.