"The course was really cool. There were some hard days – especially the first nine weeks, which was military induction training, but most days I had to pinch myself and think, 'I can't believe I'm here'," Pilot Officer Upton says.
"I may not have made it as a pilot but my hard work paid off and I proved myself during the selection process and was instead offered a place as an air warfare officer, an opportunity I am proud to have been offered."
She is about to begin training with No. 5 Squadron and will be one of the first to learn the air warfare role in the RNZAF's new P-8A Poseidon aircraft, arriving at RNZAF Base Ohakea late next year.
"It will be really exciting to be working on a brand new aircraft."
Pilot Officer Upton joined the RNZAF out of a desire for a challenging career that would also allow her to help people.
"I loved that the Air Force challenges you in terms of your trade skills but also your personal growth through the unique challenges and leadership opportunities. It sounded like a really exciting career which provides really unique experiences."
If Pilot Officer Upton had an opportunity to speak with other aspiring aviator 12-year-olds, she would tell them the Air Force is an amazing opportunity and to go for it.
"Follow your dreams. Don't let anyone tell you it's not achievable, because it is.
"There hasn't been a day yet where I have regretted or even questioned joining the Air Force. The recruitment process can seem long and perhaps a bit intimidating but it is worth it.
"If you are thinking about joining the best thing you can do is talk to people who are in or have been in the Air Force. It is one thing to read recruitment brochures and info but actually talking to people about what you can do in the Air Force will give you way better insight into what the Air Force is like and what's available."
