The Future Through Collaboration (TFTC) is a cross-industry mentoring program founded, managed and delivered by Kinexus.
TFTC was established in 2014 in partnership with a group of Defence industry organisations (Kinexus, Airservices, BAE, Raytheon, Royal Australian Navy, and the Department of Defence) that recognised a shared issue: the attraction, retention, and promotion of women across the sector. The program was created to address that gap through collaboration rather than isolated organisational efforts.
Over a 12-month period, TFTC pairs women with experienced mentors outside their direct workplace. This cross-organisational structure is intentional. It creates a safe, neutral space for honest conversation, perspective and growth, without organisational pressure or performance agendas.
The structured program supports women working across Defence and defence industry roles, including engineering, ICT, cyber, project management and technical disciplines, at different career stages.
Kinexus manages all program design, matching, and administration, ensuring consistency, care and independence across cohorts.
To date, the program has supported over 650 participants across industry.
TFTC is a long-running, industry-supported program focused on retention and progression, not a one-off intervention.
What makes the program different:
Cross-organisational mentoring relationships
Independent program management by Kinexus
A focus on long-term career sustainability
Facilitated sessions, induction training and continual support throughout the 12 months to prevent fizzle and achieve personal goals
A growing alumni community that remains connected
In 2017, TFTC was recognised for its contribution to the Defence industry, receiving the Support / Services - Essington Lewis Award.
GET INVOLVED WITH TFTC
Kinexus is incredibly proud to manage, support, and deliver TFTC, and of the impact it continues to have through the commitment of participants, mentors, and partner organisations. The program reflects a genuine industry effort to strengthen capabilities by supporting women in building sustainable careers.
Reach out to program manager Sophie Wright or program coordinator Alarna Chivers.
If you would like more information or to get involved with TFTC, visit our website.