From bench clutter to quick fix with EDGY

A common workplace annoyance in the EDGY Lab at RAAF Base Williamtown sparked a fast and practical innovation by FLTLT Michael Joubert.

After joining the Williamtown EDGY Lab early last year, FLTLT Joubert was keen to contribute beyond his role as a local EDGY Champion, where he supports innovators, facilitates access to the lab and helps units bring ideas to life.

“Our local EDGY Lab Ambassador Flight Lieutenant Loretta Jolly pointed out the clutter associated with some personal protective equipment (PPE) around a workbench, so I set about finding a solution,” FLTLT Joubert said.

“I drew on a design I’d previously created for storing garden tools at home, and adapted the concept for the lab's pegboard system. Using the EDGY Lab's in-house design and manufacturing capability, I redesigned the storage pegs and 3D printed them on site.

“The solution was designed, printed and put into use within a single day, providing an organised storage option for PPE at a cost of only a few cents per peg,” FLTLT Joubert said.

EDGY Program Director WGCDR Kylie Cimen said the project showcased the value of local innovation capability across Air Force.

“Michael’s project highlights how local EDGY Labs empower Air Force members to rapidly develop and manufacture practical solutions to everyday challenges,” WGCDR Cimen said.

“It demonstrates how a simple idea can be transformed into an immediate outcome, improving the workplace and delivering value where it is needed most.”

WGCDR Cimen encouraged aviators to explore how EDGY can help them turn their own ideas into reality.

“I encourage aviators across Air Force to visit the EDGY intranet page to learn more about how the program is supporting units to innovate on their bases,” she said.

“Get involved, connect with fellow innovators and discover how EDGY can help you turn challenges into opportunities.”