Midwife helicopter pilot, career changer graduate from University of Sunshine Coast

A midwife who is also a helicopter pilot and a mum-of-two were among more than 500 students to celebrate their graduation from a Sunshine Coast university.

Captain Jan Becker (left) and Ruth Duong (right) graduated from the University of the Sunshine Coast this week.

A midwife who is a helicopter pilot and a single mother turned biomedical scientist are among hundreds of students who graduated from a Sunshine Coast university this week.

Captain Jan Becker and Ruth Duong were among more than 500 graduates who celebrated their graduation from the University of the Sunshine Coast at the Sippy Downs campus. 

Mrs Becker is a clinical midwife and educator who runs Midwife Vision Global, an organisation dedicated to neonatal resuscitation in Tanzania.

She is also the CEO of Sunshine Coast Airport-based Becker Helicopters Pilot Academy.

Her PhD investigates the “silent voice” of the midwife in limited clinical settings.

Midwife and helicopter pilot Captain Jan Becker graduated from the University of the Sunshine Coast this week.

“The essence of my research is that we must ensure life-saving measures are always given to babies who are born not breathing but with a heart rate,” she said.

“It takes an extraordinarily long time to change old habits but Hands On Training is helping provide vital new habits and skills to keep more babies alive.”

Another inspiring graduate, Ms Duong is a proud single mother who is changing careers from earthworks to Biomedical Science and bone biology research.

Ms Duong, who graduated with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science and University Medal for Academic Excellence, delivered the graduand address in front of her two children at the ceremony on Friday.

Ruth Duong (centre) celebrates at the University of the Sunshine Coast graduation ceremony.

“It is my great honour to share with you this special moment, I am deeply honoured and humbled,” she said.

“The idea of returning to university after completing my first degree in 2006, seemed distant and challenging.

“What I learned from my time at USC is the sense of belonging, friendship, supporting one another and most of all, something I didn’t have at the time.

“Instead of solely focusing on my own future, I’ve discovered that contributing to the community brings fulfillment and satisfaction.

“For that, I can’t thank you enough.”

USC Chancellor Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK, AFC congratulated the graduating cohort on their success, many of whom started their studies during COVID-19 lockdowns.

“I’d like to start by congratulating the graduates on their achievement and success,” Sir Houston said.

“It’s a very special occasion for you, I’m just delighted to be part of it.

“You have just joined the international community of scholars whose contributions knowledge, skills, and ideas are the foundation of our world‘s future.”