CMDR Simon McCowan joined the Royal Australian Navy in 2006, from Melbourne. He finished his Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) in 2007, whilst on exchange to the University of Strathclyde, Scotland.

Following initial engineering training in HMAS Toowoomba, Simon transferred to Submarines in 2010. He attained his Submarine Qualification in 2011. He has served as the Marine Engineer Officer in HMA Submarines Waller and Dechaineux.

Between submarine postings, CMDR McCowan instructed Marine Engineering at the Engineering Officer Training Faculty. His subsequent shore postings have included Staff Officer – Submarine Engineering within Navy Headquarters, Personal Staff

Officer to Head of Navy Engineering and the SEA1450 Collins Life of Type Extension Engineering Manager.

CMDR McCowan is a graduate of the Capability and Technology Management Program and the UCL Submarine Design and Acquisition Course. He is the proud husband to Rowan, and enjoys exploring the outdoors with their children Catriona and Anna.