World Space Week 2021 - Women in Space

Inspiring the next generation?

I’m always happy when World Space Week kicks off. It’s a great occasion to reflect on all the benefits that this sector brings to our daily lives, while getting young people excited about this topic and inspiring them to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths). This year’s theme is ‘Women in Space’, which is a topic particularly close to my heart.

From my own experience, aerospace is an incredibly exciting sector at the cutting edge of Industry 4.0. And we find ourselves in truly inspiring times right now as the Artemis human spaceflight programme, in which Airbus technology is playing a significant role, prepares to return us to the Moon. I’ve always seen the Moon landing as symbolic of the great power of technology to literally reach the stars – and this renewed effort underlines the fact that we are again in a time of great technological progress which we can use to the benefit of humanity.

In this week to inspire the next generation, I’ve also taken a moment to consider what has driven me during my own career and what guidance I would offer my younger self if I were embarking on that journey today. Here, in no particular order, are my top five pieces of advice.

1. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and see the world – or the industry you work in – from a different perspective

Before joining Airbus, I had worked in the automotive industry for over 25 years. I’ve now been on a nearly three-year journey within the aerospace sector, and this has further shaped the person I am today. I think it’s very beneficial for people who have seen another sector in depth to come into a new industry and ask different questions, using their knowledge to help transform their new area of work. What attracted me to aerospace? Developing and producing satellites, drones or aircraft is a unique experience and requires a combination of labour-intensive manufacturing and precision assembly of ultra-complex products. And everything we produce must meet the highest regulatory and safety standards. I wanted to face new challenges such as these and I’m also driven by being able to bring the advantages of digitalisation and automation to this sector. And when it comes to Airbus, specifically: I was very motivated to join this technology leader by the international environment, open and diverse culture and value-driven approach.?

2. Find what interests you and look for ways to bring this into your professional life – the ultimate goal is to find a career that inspires you every day

During my studies in business administration, I focused on the area of computer science – so, in many ways, the potential of digital technology to shape our world has always interested me. Now, in my day-to-day role, I’m inspired to see how cutting-edge technologies are helping build the factories of the future – both on the ground and in space. For example, Europe’s very first fully automated solar-array production facility went into operation this very summer. Here, 18 robots are building solar arrays for Airbus satellites. I’m excited to see how automation and robotics are combining to positive effect – such as increasing productivity and quality while freeing up human team members for more creative tasks such as focusing on innovation. This is really bringing Industry 4.0 to life! Robotics will also play a significant role in bringing the factory of the future to space. Studies into satellite assembly and manufacturing in orbit have begun as part of the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 Programme – and these are the very first exciting steps towards major changes in the way space systems could be designed, built and operated.?

3. Don’t stop developing yourself – this is only possible by facing challenges and being open to the unexpected

This is what I love about the world of operations – it’s always full of challenges, in the best possible way. For example, we have so many satellites in production right now that with parts arriving from around the world within and outside Airbus, the task of scheduling is certainly a big one. But it’s so inspiring to work on such amazing projects as JUICE, EarthCare and Orion that I wouldn’t have it any other way. Here, the need to deliver on time is paramount – as is the challenge to remain constantly competitive. We have to be clear that we aren’t digitalising for “digitalisation’s sake”, but to optimise our processes and ultimately increase our competitiveness. And alongside production and processes, we have our most valuable asset: our people. Even after holding several leadership roles, I’m still continually impressed, surprised and delighted not only by their achievements but also by the individual – and sometimes unexpected – stories that they share with me.?

4. Do what you can to break down stereotypes – not only is it OK to be diverse, this is exactly what we want and need in our industry

During my computer science classes, I was one of only two women. I then chose a career in what was at the time a very male-dominated industry. This is why the theme of ‘Women in Space’ is so important, both to me personally and in general. I’m happy to support an event that increases the visibility of female role models for young women and girls and encourages them to study STEM topics. It is also a great opportunity to celebrate the contributions of incredible women – including our own employees – to the sciences and space sector. Let’s just consider for a moment that only 11% of the 500+ people who have flown into space are women; we’re still listing female firsts despite the fact that the first man stepped on the Moon over 50 years ago. World Space Week helps increase diversity in the space sector – as does one of the Artemis programme’s aims: to land the first woman and the first person of colour on the Moon. But why is diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) important? At Airbus, we believe that DE&I helps us advance innovation by including a range of perspectives, and it allows us to reflect the breadth of all our global customers and their needs. I personally believe that collectively, each one of us can help create a diverse and balanced world. We can actively choose to challenge stereotypes, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate the achievements of women and all minorities.

5. And finally: be true to yourself and don’t stand in your own way

We are often our own worst enemies and sometimes it takes a “push” from outside to make us believe in ourselves. This is the advice that I would not only give my younger self but everyone in the next generation: be true to yourself and your values. For example, I don’t believe that women in the workplace have to adopt stereotypically “male” attributes: we can show compassion and warmth, ambition, expertise and emotional intelligence. I am a strong believer in people and like to lead my teams with trust, respect and team spirit, and these are values I have stuck to throughout my entire leadership career. And finally: don’t stand in your own way. When I was offered my first leadership role, I found myself underestimating my own abilities and it was my (male) superior who supported and encouraged me. Women in particular often feel the need to constantly demonstrate that they deserve a leadership position. To anyone who lacks confidence in their own capabilities: don’t put obstacles in the path of your own progress and trust yourself!?