MEDIA RELEASE 11 March 2024 

Celebrating Women in Defence: Nola Pearce, Founder of TraumaSim, awarded Sarah Taylor Award for driving diversity in Defence Industry.

Nola Pearce, Founder and Director of TraumaSim, a pioneering force in global healthcare simulation, has been awarded the inaugural Sarah Taylor Award by the Women in Defence Association — the Award recognises individuals that are driving diversity outcomes in the WA Defence Industry. 

Challenging gender biases and fostering a culture of inclusivity, Ms Pearce, is a female entrepreneur in a predominantly male-dominated sector, with her remarkable journey exemplifying resilience, innovation, and dedication to gender equity. 

Rachel Falzon, Founder and President of Women in Defence Association said the committee recognised Ms Pearce for her leadership and commitment to diversity which was prevalent in her actions, which extend to how she leads TraumaSim and engages with Defence industry. 

“Her commitment was demonstrated through TraumaSim’s high female workforce participation, flexibility offered to female workforce across all levels, and clear career progression opportunities,” she said. 

Founded 15 years ago by Ms Pearce, a former intensive care nurse, TraumaSim is a small Perth-based business specialising in designing and manufacturing realistic training aids for military and civilian healthcare applications. 

As a casualty realism expert, Ms Pearce has provided casualty realism training for Defence personnel, earning her the reputation as the leading trainer in her field globally, with her military casualty simulation training courses available in the United States, Middle East, South East Asia, and Australia. 

Leaders in simulation and innovation, TraumaSim’s products are now exported to over 30 countries and 20 militaries worldwide, with a focus on improving the skills and emotional resilience of soldiers and medics, preparing them for real-life situations where emergency trauma application is required. 

Ms Pearce said it was incredibly humbling to be recognised for her contributions as a female leader in the male-dominated Defence industry. 

“I hope that my own journey and development of a globally recognised business serves as inspiration for all women, proving that innovation and leadership is not defined by gender, “My passion is helping human life — TraumaSim’s training prepares and equips defence and healthcare professionals worldwide — I’m immensely proud that my products and training have real life impact, saving lives,” she said. 

TraumaSim: Empowering Through Innovation and Inclusivity.