In celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, we’re highlighting some amazing women making a difference in our region’s Defence community. First up, meet Air Trooper Mclean, a dedicated Reservist with 6 Army Air Corps (6AAC).
Could you tell us a little about yourself and your journey? What inspired you to join the 6AAC, and what led you to become an Air Trooper. Could you also tell us what you do as your ‘day job’?
I was first exposed to Army life when my older brother joined the Royal Engineers after leaving school in the 90s. A number of my friends also went on to join the Armed Forces when we finished school. I was always incredibly proud of them and I saw the tough moments they faced, but also the incredible opportunities that came their way. Joining the Armed Forces was always something I held in the back of my mind.
In 2009, I took part in the Army Officer Selection Board (AOSB) at Westbury, but for various reasons I chose not to pursue an Army career at that time. Then, in 2020/21, I went through the RAF Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre (OASC). The impact of COVID-19 meant the process became long and during that time I had settled into a new civilian role which I was enjoying. When the offer eventually came, I made the difficult decision to turn it down. Still, the Armed Forces remained an itch I’d never quite scratched.
My civilian career is in the education sector, where I work as a programme project manager. I work closely with the Department for Education to design and deliver continuous professional development for teachers and leaders in further education. It’s a role I enjoy, but it’s very desk‑based, and I found myself craving something more active, more hands‑on, and completely different from my day‑to‑day work.
That’s when the Army Reserves became the perfect opportunity.
With the flexibility of my job, I was finally able to take the step I’d always considered. I chose the AAC because I wanted something that would challenge me in a completely different way. Learning how to refuel and re‑arm the Apache helicopter to support ground forces felt like exactly the kind of hands‑on, purposeful role I’d been looking for. That’s why I chose to become an Aviation Groundcrew Specialist, and it’s a decision I’m hugely proud of.
What does International Women’s Day 2026 mean to you and why do you think it’s important to mark it within 6AAC?
It’s a moment for me personally to reflect and recognise my own individual journey, plus the strength, resilience and achievements of others. It’s an opportunity to remind myself of the individual progress I have made, progress I’m proud of. It also reminds me how far women have come, and how important it is that we continue to create opportunities for women to lead and succeed.
Within the AAC, marking the day matters because visibility and representation help inspire change. I’m just one of five females in our squadron. Women bring skill, resilience and a perspective that helps to strengthen the wider organisation. Celebrating our achievements across the Corps helps challenge old assumptions, highlights the added-value we bring, and shows future generations that there is a place for them here.
Have you had any female role models—within the military, or elsewhere—who have inspired or supported your career journey?
I’ve had several female role models who have inspired and supported me throughout my career – from my Mum, to senior leaders I’ve worked with, to colleagues and friends, including some serving in the Army.
My mum set the foundation for my work ethic and approach to challenges from a young age. Her resilience, determination, and ability to stay grounded taught me to approach challenges with integrity and persistence.
I’ve also been influenced by senior female leaders who showed me what confident, compassionate leadership looks like. Their clear decision making, clarity, ability to communicate with confidence, high standards, and supportive approach have shaped the way I lead and work with others.
Finally, colleagues and friends, including those in the Army—many embody resilience, adaptability and a calm approach under pressure. Watching how they navigate uncertainty and manage competing demands with professionalism has influenced how I approach complex programme work, respond to challenges and maintain a steady, solution‑focused mindset.
Together, these women have played a significant role in shaping my confidence, my leadership style, and the kind of professional I aim to be.
What would you say to encourage other women to consider becoming a reservist?
I’d say, just go for it. Becoming a reservist is one of the most empowering decisions you can make. It gives you the chance to push yourself, build confidence, and discover strengths you didn’t even know you had.
And you’re not choosing it instead of your civilian career; you’re able to do it alongside. Yes, there will be military training, but it’s far more than that. You’ll join a community that values teamwork, resilience and personal growth. You’ll learn skills that will be transferable to your civilian role such as leadership, adaptability, resilience and discipline—plus you’ll no doubt have skills that you can bring into the military. Something that makes the Army Reserves unique is the wide range of experiences civilians bring.
If you’re looking for challenge, purpose, and a sense of belonging, the Reserves can give you all of that and more. The Army Reserves offers a wider range of opportunities that go beyond military training, offering personal development, financial benefits, adventure, and experiences you simply don’t get in civilian life.
One of the standout opportunities the Army Reserves has given me is the chance to represent the Army in golf. It’s opened doors I never expected, playing incredible courses and competing alongside people from all walks of life who share the same drive, discipline and love of the sport.
Those experiences have been genuinely unforgettable and I look forward to more. They’ve pushed me, inspired me, and connected me with an amazing community I wouldn’t have met anywhere else – some of whom are now my best friends. It’s one of the many reasons I’m proud to wear the uniform and why I encourage more women to explore what the Reserves can offer.
Thanks to Air Trooper McLean for talking to us for International Women’s Day 2026. To find out more about becoming a #Reservist, visit the Army website.
