The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Gina Emrich, Senior Manager, Customer Experience and Accessibility for American Airlines, as part of our Women in the Aviation series.

This series of interviews aims to shine a spotlight on notable women in the industry and the diverse career opportunities in the sector.

Gina spends her time focusing on the customer experience strategy for passengers who travel with any type of disability.

With more than 30 years’ experience working in aviation, Gina reveals what she loves most about the industry.

Gina, how long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“I’ve been working in aviation since 1987 when I joined American Airlines.”

How did you get into the industry?

“My dad is a pilot and I got my private pilot’s license when I was in college. American Airlines was recruiting on my campus and a friend signed me up to interview because he knew how much I loved aviation.”

“My favourite part of my career is the positive impact I’ve had on the people on my team.”

Gina Emrich

What is it about working in the aviation industry that appeals to you?

“Every day is different, everything that happens in the world affects the aviation industry. I love the opportunity to bring people together – connecting them and doing things to make their experience better.”

As a woman, how do you find working in such a male-dominated industry?

“It can be more difficult in this industry than others to find fellow women leaders who have multiple children and juggle both their family and their career. For those of us who do, the challenge is finding that community and building more support in the workplace for balancing those priorities.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“On and off through the years, I’ve seen peers and leaders who don’t always respect women. However, most typically improve their attitude if you are confident and capable.”

As a female senior leader, why do you think it’s important for companies to address the gender gap?

“The most important thing is to have a balanced set of leaders who bring diverse viewpoints to decision making and company direction.

If there are not enough women in senior leadership positions who are managing families, decisions can be one dimensional – focusing only on the operation or financial success and not enough on the wellbeing of employees or the experience of our customers.”

What do you believe has been the key to your success?

“The benefit of having women in leadership positions is that we bring a very different perspective than men so more balanced decisions can be made. I feel like I’ve been able to have an impact on the company by building tools for our employees and products for our customers that they need and want.

I also focus time and energy on my team so that they are developed and fulfilled at work, which improves their quality of life.”

What characteristics do you believe women need to survive in the aviation industry?

“Flexibility and humility.”

“Every day is different, everything that happens in the world affects the aviation industry.”

Gina Emrich

In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to women succeeding in the workplace?

“Having children and a family will always impact the availability of higher-level positions, partly because some women will make the choice to spend more time with their families.”

What would you say has been your career highlight to date?

“My favourite part of my career is the positive impact I’ve had on the people on my team. Developing skills, mentoring, and supporting people in their career, which in turn supports them in their personal life, is very rewarding.”

About Gina Emrich

Gina Emrich is Senior Manager, Customer Experience and Accessibility for American Airlines. She is responsible for the customer experience strategy for passengers who travel with any type of disability.

Collaborate with partner carriers, government affairs, vendors, and the disability community to develop a strategic vision for improving the customer experience for American Airlines passengers. She holds a BS in Information Systems from the University of Texas.

The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Mariya Stoyanova, Director of Product Development for JetBlue, as part of our Women in the Aviation series.

This series of interviews aims to shine a spotlight on notable women in the industry and the diverse career opportunities in the sector.

Mariya believes an open mind, confidence and being “comfortable with being uncomfortable” will carry women through any challenge the corporate aviation world can throw at them.

Read on to find out more about her journey in the industry.

How long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“I’ve been in the aviation industry for 15 years. I started my aviation career in the actual operation launching Aegean Airlines’ service in Sofia, Bulgaria where I am originally from. I joined JetBlue as an Analyst with our in-house consulting team working on cross functional projects 10 years ago.”

How did you get into the industry?

“Purely by chance. An airline recruiter came across my resume and called me up. Before that call I never imagined myself working in aviation. At the time I was working at an IT services company splitting my time between France and Bulgaria.

“Flying is no longer a privilege reserved for the wealthy.”

Mariya Stoyanova

As mentioned in my previous answer, I was asked to join Aegean Airlines and launch their operations in Sofia, Bulgaria. I had no idea what to expect but I was very curious about it and loved to travel so I gave it a shot.”

What is it about working in the aviation industry that appeals to you?

“It is the most dynamic and unpredictable industry I’ve ever worked in. No day is the same or like the one before. The best part about it is that you are connecting people, bringing them to new places or home to their loved ones.”

As a woman, how do you find working in such a male-dominated industry?

“I’ve always been laser focused on being good at my job and flying above any bias. Keeping an eye on the prize and being a team player pays off, and most importantly opens doors for more inclusion and diversity of thought.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“I have definitely experienced some challenges as a young female executive, but with an open mind, confidence and a sense of humour everything can be overcome and/or course corrected.”

What do you believe has been the key to your success?

“Patience – good things don’t ever come easily. Persistence – failure is a temporary state and you can only learn from it. Authenticity – staying true to yourself and being genuine is critical to establishing relationships and becoming a leader.”

In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to women succeeding in the workplace?

“Personally I have struggled finding the right voice for myself or more specifically the right tone. Often women can be perceived as aggressive when being confident. It took me a while to learn how apply the right amount and nuance of assertiveness while staying authentic and true to myself at the same time.”

What would you say has been your career highlight to date?

“Launching our award-winning Mint premium service (lie-flat seats, tapas-style artisanal dining, free entertainment and award-winning service on select coast-to-coast and Caribbean flights) and being part of its first test flight. We created a brand new and unique experience and until that very first flight we had no idea if what we had designed would ever work. It was epic!”

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“Don’t let a good crisis go to waste. There are always hidden opportunities when you are facing a challenging situation. It forces you to come up with creative solutions and think outside of the box and ultimately come out of it better off than initially planned.

“It is the most dynamic and unpredictable industry I’ve ever worked in.”

Mariya Stoyanova

Some of the best features of our award winning Mint product were invented as a result of some kind of “crisis” or challenge we faced. Become comfortable being uncomfortable…that’s the fastest way to learn and grow.”

What do you believe has been the biggest development in air travel over the past 25 years?

“Accessibility. Flying is no longer a privilege reserved for the wealthy. Over the past 25 years air travel has become accessible, affordable and inclusive, reaching remote parts of the world and people from all backgrounds that never imagined they’d be able to take advantage of and experience it.

“I had no idea what to expect but I was very curious about it and loved to travel so I gave it a shot.”

Mariya Stoyanova

Our next chapter has just begun and should be focused not only on accessibility but also on sustainability. Airlines should be connecting people and places in an environmentally responsible way, and passengers should be able to enjoy guilt-free travel.”

Who has been your biggest advocate/mentor in the workplace and why?

“My former boss, Jamie Perry. He really pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to grow and develop interest for areas that I didn’t even know existed before I started working with him.”

About Mariya Stoyanova

Mariya Stoyanova is the director of Product Development at JetBlue, where she oversees the customer experience from the ground to 35,000 feet. Her team is responsible for designing new customer products, including Mint, the airline’s award-winning premium cabin offering. Before joining JetBlue, she worked on process optimisation in the charter aviation business, where she focused on developing innovative ways of delivering services.

The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Melissa Raudebaugh, General Manager – Onboard Services, Fleet and Galley planning at Delta Air Lines, as part of our Women in the Aviation series.

This series of interviews aims to shine a spotlight on notable women in the industry and the diverse career opportunities in the sector.

Melissa wants to see more women working in the aviation industry. As a senior woman working at one of the United States’ major airlines, she’s not only a fantastic role model for the next generation of female executives but also heads up Delta’s women’s organisation – SHE.

Read on to find out more about Melissa’s journey in the industry.

How long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“I’ve been at Delta Air Lines for 22 years and prior to Delta, I worked at Rocketdyne, which at the time was a division of Rockwell – the maker of the space shuttle main engine. I guess you could also count that as aviation.”

How did you get into the industry?

“I majored in mechanical engineering and then started at Delta as an engineer in propulsion engineering – writing repairs for Pratt & Whitney JT8D engines. What is it about working in the aviation industry that appeals to you? I love the customer aspect.

“Show up fully – give every project your all.”

Melissa Raudebaugh

People love to travel and getting to their chosen destinations is such a big part of that. I love trying to find new ways to separate Delta from other airlines by enhancing our customer experience.”

As a woman, how do you find working in such a male-dominated industry?

“Honestly, I work with more women now than ever! There were very few women in engineering in college – very few women in propulsion engineering. I now work with many women in our in-flight organisation. Back in my engineering days, I was actually seated in the middle of the engine shop.

Everyone was extremely nice, but I did have to deal with people assuming that I didn’t know how many engines were on a particular aircraft! You have to have a good attitude, realise no harm was meant and continue to show you’re just as smart as the male engineers.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“Not that I know of! Only the basic adjustment for some men to have women doing what they perceive as a man’s job – nothing harmful and intentional – only the occasional surprise and doubt that women can also be engineers.”

As a female senior leader, why do you think it’s important for companies to address the gender gap?

“I think most companies have realised the value that a diverse workforce brings. Especially in the industry we’re in – the travel industry includes people of every gender, race and culture. I am President of Delta’s women’s organisation – SHE. This offers a great opportunity to positively impact women at Delta. In this role, I’ve enjoyed working on events, such as Whiskey & Women or the RBG documentary about the life and career of the female Supreme Court of the United States Associate, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

“What is it about working in the aviation industry that appeals to you? I love the customer aspect.”

Melissa Raudebaugh

We watched it on an aeroplane parked at the airport for a few hours! I am always looking for what we can do to really impact women at Delta. How we can close the gender gap, and how we can make further strides toward pay parity, for example.”

What do you believe has been the key to your success?

“Passion for the airline industry and specifically Delta – our people and our customers.”

What characteristics do you believe women need to survive in the aviation industry?

“Perseverance and passion.”

In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to women succeeding in the workplace?

“I think the biggest obstacle is a work/life balance. It sounds clichéd but is so true. My husband is very supportive of my career but there are things that just tend to fall to me with raising kids, and it’s primarily because I want to be there, such as doctors’ appointments, carpool, etc.”

What would you say has been your career highlight to date?

“Probably introducing successful products that are impactful to the customers and employees. Most recently we launched a new international main cabin service at Delta. Being part of the team that made that happen is special.”

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“Show up fully – give every project your all.”

“I am always looking for what we can do to really impact women at Delta.”

Melissa Raudebaugh

What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing the aviation industry?

“I think the aviation industry has really come a long way in the past decade. We’ve figured out how to avoid the big downturns and run the airlines to avoid them. I think sustainability is next. Regulations and costs drive some of the hurdles we need to overcome, with a focus on issues such as single-use plastics and fuel.”

What do you believe has been the biggest development in air travel over the past 25 years?

“Flatbed seats… they’re just the most comfortable! I would put inflight entertainment up there at the top though as it has really helped enhance the customer experience. Long-haul flights are so much more enjoyable with your favourite movie!”

About Melissa Raudebaugh

Melissa Raudebaugh is a member of Delta Air Lines’ Onboard Services team within the Inflight Organization and currently serves as General Manager – Fleet and Galley Planning. In her role, Melissa leads the team responsible for defining and developing new products directly related to the cabin interior as it relates to the flight attendant (and customer) workspace. Her team also designs the galley specifications.

During her 14 years at Delta, Melissa has held positions in Supply Chain, Interiors Engineering, Fleet Strategy Aircraft Acquisitions and Marketing. She has a Mechanical Engineering degree from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Master in Business Administration from Georgia State University.

Prior to joining Delta, Melissa served as a test engineer at Rocketdyne. Melissa also heads up Delta’s women’s organisation – SHE and is Chairwoman of the Hamburg Aviation Crystal Cabin Award Judging Panel since November 2014.

The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Wampie Kegel of Safran Cabin, as part of our Women in the Aviation series.

This series of interviews aims to shine a spotlight on notable women in the industry and the diverse career opportunities in the sector.

Having held positions at Zodiac Aerospace and now, Safran Cabin, Wampie Kegel has more than 20 years’ experience in the aviation industry.

Here, she addresses the personal challenges facing women today, and the cultural changes needed in the industry to improve diversity.

How long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“For more than 20 years. I started my career in aviation at Driessen, a Dutch manufacturer of galleys and trolleys, where I first took responsibility for internal communication and later on also for exhibitions and external communication.

Over the years my role has not changed significantly, but it does make quite a difference if you work for a family business of only 2,000 employees compared to a listed company with 95,000 employees. It’s fair to say I grew up with the job. As the companies I worked for got bigger, so I took the opportunities that were open to me.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“I’ve not experienced problems because of being a woman myself. On the contrary. I have been given many opportunities. However, I have seen many examples in our industry – and across other sectors – where women have difficulties in getting promoted in sectors that are traditionally outnumbered by men, and that women more often than not, run through the glass ceiling.

That has not changed much over the years, even though the number of women in our industry has increased in all job functions.”

In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to women succeeding in the workplace?

“What I have seen is that talented women are overlooked, and that female colleagues often lack the confidence to apply for higher-level positions compared to male colleagues. When there are job openings, I still hear that we are looking for the right ‘guy’ to fill the job.

“Having female role models is of great importance to attract and keep the new and next generation of women in our industry.”

Wampie Kegel

This is a culture that needs time to change. It also requires education to make people more aware. When you do not experience the issue personally, you may mistakenly think that this type of discrimination does not occur, as it shouldn’t. This lack of awareness makes it harder to change the culture.”

What advice would you give to female professionals interested in a career in aviation?

“To support each other in realising ambitions. I advise anyone interested in a career in aviation to take the opportunities as they arise and just go for it, even if you are not sure you are the best candidate for the job. Ask for coaching and look for a good mentor. Take part in networking and after-work events.

Men, in general, are much better in investing time in building their network, whereas many women, including me, struggle with the work and private life balance. After work, we run back home to take care of our families, and often decline network opportunities even though we know these would benefit our career.”

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“Just go for it, and enjoy it.”

What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing the aviation industry?

“Providing all the people in the world the opportunity to fly and connect with each other worldwide. At the same time, reducing the carbon footprint and making the aviation industry more sustainable.”

Who has been your biggest advocate/mentor in the workplace and why?

“Paul Verheul, CEO of Driessen and Zodiac Galley Equipment, encouraged me to be more ambitious and take up new challenges. Today at Safran I have a few great female role models in executive positions that inspire me and from who I can learn. For instance, Pascale Dubois and Helene Moreau Leroy, who are also two of the initiators of the women@safran network, promoting mutual support among the women in the group.

“Take the opportunities as they arise and just go for it.”

Wampie Kegel

Having female role models is of great importance to attract and keep the new and next generation of women in our industry, and even more important: we as women should be encouraging and supporting other women in realising their ambitions. That is one of my personal objectives on the job.”

About Wampie Kegel

With more than 22 years at Zodiac Aerospace, Wampie Kegel joined Safran Cabin, the world’s leading supplier of cabin interiors for regional, narrow and wide-body, business and military aircraft in 2018. As Communication Director, she is responsible for managing the organisation’s internal and external communications.

The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Fadimatou Noutchemo Simo, founder – Young African Aviation Professional Association, as part of our Women in the Aviation series.

This series of interviews aims to shine a spotlight on notable women in the industry and the diverse career opportunities in the sector.

Fadimatou is an aviation industry pioneer and leading role model, in particular for young African women who would like to work in the industry. In recognition of her success, she recently won a High Flyer Award at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) AGM in Seoul, South Korea.

Read on to find out what inspires her.

Fadimatou, how long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“2020 will be the 10th year I have worked in the aviation industry. I was Director of Strategy and Business Development at Cronos Airline Group and my principal role was to design strategies to explore new markets as well as build partnerships to help grow the activities in the sub-region.”

How did you get into the industry?

“I was headhunted and recruited as the Administration Manager for the relaunch of Cameroon Airlines Corporation and was its first female member of staff. It was very challenging as at the beginning I had no idea about the whole industry and was just doing the administration work, but at the same time, I was curious about the industry not having role models that could directly guide me at that time.”

“We find more and more women getting into all fields of aviation.”

Fadimatou Noutchemo Simo

What is it about working in the aviation industry that appeals to you?

“It was a completely new industry for me, and it had never crossed my mind to even think about careers in aviation having studied in a boarding school in a rural area. Today I am proud to be able to get more young people – especially girls – interested in joining the industry and believe this growth will enable us to have a sustainable aviation industry in Africa very soon.”

As a woman, how do you find working in such a male-dominated industry?

“It is not an easy task to work in such a male dominated industry because you are always faced with challenges. Firstly, some men believe certain jobs are just for them and refuse to collaborate, and others just do their best to discourage you.

I understand this belief is cultural because they have been made to understand that they are the ones to lead and women just have to follow, but today we are trying to make them see that we can succeed better by working side by side.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“Yes, I have more than once been discriminated because of my gender. I have worked in an environment where my male colleagues received support from the line manager and as a woman, it was almost impossible for my ideas, suggestions or opinion to be taken into consideration too.

“This growth will enable us to have a sustainable aviation industry in Africa very soon.”

Fadimatou Noutchemo Simo

At another company, where I had been recruited for a regional position, I was often overlooked and only given basic tasks, which was very frustrating as it only had a negative impact on my performance.”

As a female senior leader, why do you think it’s important for companies to address the gender gap?

“We find more and more women getting into all fields of aviation. The industry itself needs to grow and stand out to set an example to other industries. For this reason, I encourage men to inspire, mentor and empower the women working with them to ensure we get competent and qualified professionals to meet the demands of this fast-growing industry.”

What do you believe has been the key to your success?

“Constant perseverance and determination.”

What characteristics do you believe women need to survive in the aviation industry?

“They need to have trust in their ability and capacity to manage and be persistently determined to achieve great results from their hard work.”

In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to women succeeding in the workplace?

“Gender discrimination is one of the main factors. Until mindsets are changed to give equal opportunities, women will not succeed in the workplace.”

What would you say has been your career highlight to date?

“My ability as a quick learner, as well as my adaptability, creativity and flexibility. I started as Administration Manager and shortly became Logistics and Procurement Manager in maintenance and engineering.

“The growth in connectivity across the world is for me the biggest development in air travel.”

Fadimatou Noutchemo Simo

I had to do on the job training to be able to master and properly do my job with my team. My biggest achievement has been to get all the qualifying certificates that I need for the different roles that later on led me to inspire the next generation across Africa.”

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“Never give up and to continue working hard for the passion I have for my job.”

What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing the aviation industry?

“That it varies from region to region but in Africa, the aviation industry still faces great challenges with human capital development, funding and management because it’s still generally a sector that is run by individual nation states.”

What do you believe has been the biggest development in air travel over the past 25 years?

“The growth in connectivity across the world is for me the biggest development in air travel. Technology and innovation have also greatly contributed.”

If you could change one thing in the aviation industry, what would it be?

“Making it more accessible to those interested in joining, but who cannot because of the high cost of training.”

About Fadimatou Noutchemo Simo

Fadimatou Noutchemo Simo founded the Young African Aviation Professional Association (YAAPA) in July 2014 and since then has made it her mission to raise awareness of aviation as a potential career in communities that might not otherwise consider it as an option.

The YAAPA has also been key in establishing a community centre in Cameroon, which aims to introduce a Youth Activation Tech Programme for Africa by matching interested young people with aviation professional mentors.

The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Alina Nassar, a member and past president of the board of directors of the International Aviation Women’s Association, as part of our Women in the Aviation series.

This series of interviews aims to shine a spotlight on notable women in the industry and the diverse career opportunities in the sector.

As a lawyer specialising in aviation, Alina’s in the perfect position to take a balanced view of how it’s responding to the challenge of creating greater gender diversity across all aspects of the industry.

Alina, how long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“I have worked in the aviation industry for 20 years as a practising attorney, and another four years or so before that as a paralegal working with attorneys in that practice area.”

How did you get into the industry?

“The law firm I am with has a historical practice in transportation. When I joined as a law student, I was working with the senior and founding partner and focused on aviation law. I immediately fell in love with the subject and the industry!”

What is it about working in the aviation industry that appeals to you?

“It’s a dynamic and global practice, capable of influencing development and fostering progress for individuals and societies. At the same time, it’s so interconnected that it’s also highly sensitive to what happens in other industries. In aviation, no day is the same and there’s no routine or boredom, at all.

“Women identified the progression of other women in their organisations as the single most important enabler of their own advancement.”

Alina Nassar, IAWA 2019 Study

Technological innovation is happening daily in the industry, which also challenges the regulatory framework; as an attorney in the field, you’re also challenged to innovate, create and provide solutions to your clients while the legislation catches up.”

As a woman, how do you find working in such a male-dominated industry?

“I have been fortunate to have a very supportive boss, who always encouraged my learning and professional development, including my participation in the International Aviation Women’s Association (IAWA). This provided a platform for networking, connections and further progress and is encouraged and supported by both women and men.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“I cannot say that I have. However, as a woman, sometimes I’ve had to work harder to gain the credibility and respect I deserve.”

As a female senior leader, why do you think it’s important for companies to address the gender gap?

“Hundreds of studies from private corporations, recruiters, business strategists and international organisations – such as the OECD and UN to name only two – have proved the business case for gender parity. Bringing more women into the formal economy not only benefits individuals and society, but diverse teams also boost a corporation’s performance.

“I do not think the aviation industry requires a separate set of skills from any other industry.”

Alina Nassar

Diverse teams, not only in terms of gender but also with regards to background, culture, nationality, etc. favour innovation and different perspectives in decision-making processes. Corporations with a firm commitment to inclusion generate greater opportunities for employees and have higher retention, to name only some of the benefits.”

What do you believe has been the key to your success?

“I’d say a strong set of values, commitment, perseverance and undoubtedly the many people who have selflessly helped me, supported me and provided guidance throughout my career.”

What characteristics do you believe women need to survive in the aviation industry?

“I do not think the aviation industry requires a separate set of skills from any other industry. You must establish a clear set of goals, be flexible to adapt to different events and outcomes and surround yourself with an extensive network. Finding a mentor is key in the process.”

In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to women succeeding in the workplace?

“In December 2019, IAWA launched the results of a global study conducted with six other relevant organisations in the industry (Korn Ferry, A4A, ACI, AIA, CANSO and IATA) called “Soaring Through the Glass Ceiling”. It aimed to determine the root causes that may be preventing women’s advancement into leadership positions in the airline and aerospace industry.

“Technological innovation is happening daily in the industry.”

Alina Nassar

In our study, women identified the progression of other women in their organisations as the single most important enabler of their own advancement. Corporations including women in their leadership teams send a clear message to other women within those organisations about the possibilities to succeed.

Conversely, when women don’t see female leaders, there’s a sense of a lack of opportunity that discourages progression.”

About Alina Nassar

Alina Nassar has been a member of the Board of Directors of the International Aviation Women’s Association (IAWA) since 2010 and is its most immediate Past President (2018-1019). She is also Chair of her law firm’s regional aviation practice and Co-Chair of the competition practice advising international airlines and corporations on legal matters in Central America, among them aviation, corporate, competition.

She has also directed administrative procedures representing several companies before the Competition Agency and the Commission for the Protection of Consumers in Costa Rica and advised on aircraft financing transactions and application of the Cape Town Convention on International Interests on Mobile Equipment and its Protocol on Matters Specific to Aircraft Equipment. Alina also actively participates as a speaker and panellist at international conferences on air transport.

The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Zuzana Hrnkova, Vice President of Marketing at ATR, as part of our Women in the Aviation series.

This series of interviews aims to shine a spotlight on notable women in the industry and the diverse career opportunities in the sector.

Zuzana believes aviation is in her DNA. With a private pilots license and Aeronautical Engineering degree, Zuzana brings an innate understanding of aviation to her role at ATR.

Here, she reveals her career highlights and why she believes the evolution of the passenger experience is key for further industry success.

Zuzana, how long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“I started in 1994 with Airbus, so I have 26 years’ experience in the aviation industry.”

How did you get into the industry?

“Planes are in my DNA. My grandfather was a pilot, my uncle is a pilot, I received my glider licence when I was 18 and PPL when I was 22. This passion for aviation led me to study Aeronautical Engineering in Slovakia and then also in France. I was then hired by Airbus just after my diploma training.”

What is it about working in the aviation industry that appeals to you?

“The possibility to connect people and places, bringing the world closer and making it more accessible. Also continuous innovation, not only on the technological side but also in terms of customer experience.”

“More diversity enriches both the working environment and our capacity to innovate.”

Zuzana Hrnkova

As a woman, how do you find working in such a male-dominated industry?

“Well, I’ve never felt strange, as I’ve been used to the low percentage of women since University. I followed a degree in Aeronautical Engineering, and it seems that this branch tends to attract men. Then I was used to a ratio where about 10-15% were women.

The good news is that this is improving these days and at ATR as a company, we talk about greater than 25% female representation. In my team of 20 people, I’ve achieved 40%!”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“Based on my own experience, during my study and working/professional life, I’ve never had any bad experiences. I think it is very important to understand that no matter which gender, we all have a value to add to this industry. As an employee, I have two “diversity hats”; I’m Slovakian and female, and honestly, I believe that my contribution coming from a different cultural background and point of view has continuously contributed to enriching my working environment.”

“Being transparent and being yourself is your big strength!”

Zuzana Hrnkova

As a female senior leader, why do you think it’s important for companies to address the gender gap?

“More diversity enriches both the working environment and our capacity to innovate. What do you believe has been the key to your success? I’ve always tried to create the value, use my differences positively and stay true to myself, following my fundamentals and values.”

What characteristics do you believe women need to survive in the aviation industry?

“Be passionate, know how to exploit your unique features, never give up and don’t lose sight of the lesson.”

In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to women succeeding in the workplace?

“There seems to be a pressure where women try to be ‘superwomen’ in terms of their work/life balance and then feel guilty for wanting both… It is important to ask for help when needed!”

What would you say has been your career highlight to date?

“Working on the development of the A350XWB as it was a chance to work on clean sheet design aircraft. Moving to ATR has also been a highlight. It has encouraged me to push myself out of my comfort zone and create a fantastic team, as well as implementing new tools and ways of working.”

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“Don’t try to hide your emotions. Being transparent and being yourself is your big strength!”

What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing the aviation industry?

“Climate change is a concern for each and every one of us, and all transport modes produce external environmental impacts, including noise, pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. As air traffic grows, especially to power the emerging economies of the world, aviation needs to balance that growth to control our impact on the climate.”

What do you believe has been the biggest development in air travel over the past 25 years?

“For me, the biggest development in air travel has been seen in the passenger experience domain, by shifting from engineering-driven design criteria to passenger experience-driven criteria.

“Planes are in my DNA.”

Zuzana Hrnkova

The main quantum leap was done in the high yield segment, where the passenger experience is comparable with private jets while maintaining reasonable space efficiency and airline economics.”

If you could change one thing in the aviation industry, what would it be?

“Improve the pre-flight experience by improving all stressful and time-consuming steps before you finally board the aircraft.”

About Zuzana Hrnkova

Zuzana Hrnkova has 26 years’ experience in the aviation business and joined ATR, the European turboprop manufacturer and the world leader in the regional aviation market in 2015 as Vice President Marketing.

She leads the team responsible for market strategy, airline marketing and product development and continues to extend her long-lasting experience in aircraft interiors to the regional segment. Previously Zuzana worked at Airbus and her last assignment was Head of Aircraft Interiors Marketing, where she led the Aircraft Interiors Marketing team, covering all current and future Airbus cabins.

One of her main tasks was to guide new cabin product developments ensuring that cabin design fulfils all passengers’ and airlines’ expectations.

The Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) team sat down with Nicole Noack, Head of Independent Aircraft Modifier Alliance (IAMA) at Lufthansa Technik AG, as part of our Women in the Aviation series.

This series of interviews aims to shine a spotlight on notable women in the industry and the diverse career opportunities in the sector.

Nicole, how long have you worked in the aviation industry?

“I have been working in aviation since 2003 across multiple functions in heavy and base maintenance as well as aircraft modification at Lufthansa Technik AG.”

How did you get into the industry?

“I graduated in Computer Science, so my personal skills and interests have always been technical. After a few exciting years being part of the so-called dotcom era in the late nineties/early 2000s, I was looking for a challenging position in a very technical environment.

Living in Hamburg, the aviation industry was not only an obvious option but also a personal passion, which up until that point was purely a fascination for aircraft from a passenger point of view.”

What is it about working in the aviation industry that appeals to you?

“The physics used to enable a multi-tonne aircraft to take off safely and move people through the air over oceans and continents is just fascinating. Knowing the efforts required to design an aircraft, maintain and operate it, modify it and adapt it to the latest safety regulations – and passenger demands – is a life-time’s work with very different nuances. Working with any aircraft brings huge responsibility and I am always proud to see it taking off knowing I might have touched it in one way or another.”

As a woman, how do you find working in such a male-dominated industry?

“I have always felt very comfortable working in a so-called “man’s world”. When I started with Lufthansa Technik, I soon switched to a position close to aircraft technics, leading a team of highly qualified inspectors in heavy maintenance. I never felt I was judged as a woman, but as a person and by my knowledge and ability to learn. I have always worked with incredible colleagues in my respective departments and I am still very much enjoying it.”

Have you encountered any gender discrimination in your career?

“I have always brought my own skills and beliefs to my job and while they might not always fit into the environment, I have personally never had to deal seriously with gender discrimination by myself. I have always been lucky to have very supportive superiors, especially during the time I started my family.

“However, women in aviation, at least in the technical field, are still not very common.”

Nicole Noack

It was a balanced give-and-take set-up and I am still grateful I got the chance to go into a management position back then. That said, I do encounter gender discrimination around me, particularly when it comes to stereotypes and prejudices; there’s always the feeling that as a woman you first have to prove people wrong before being taken seriously.”

As a female senior leader, why do you think it’s important for companies to address the gender gap?

“I deeply believe in the concept of diversity as a whole. Different genders, cultures, nationalities etc all bring their own unique ways of thinking based upon the experiences they’ve had in life. To give everyone a voice and acknowledge them means to see the business through a wider lens – and to develop it in a more successful way.

Beyond that, I think it is a prerequisite to build on the concept of diversity, not only as a business but within society as a whole.”

What do you believe has been the key to your success?

“I believe in people and their individual strengths and needs, regardless of whether they are male or female. As a leader, I have found that celebrating diversity has always brought success as well as an acknowledgement from more senior management.

“No matter how fast technologies develop or how fast the run is to lead a new market, safety must always come first.”

Nicole Noack

Once given the opportunity, I felt it was in my hands to develop my career. But I still believe gaining that first trust was the key to moving forward professionally.”

What characteristics do you believe women need to survive in the aviation industry?

“I don’t think there is a general answer to this. There are so many different job roles in aviation, and each requires a different set of characteristics. When it comes to a career in aviation, my advice would be to be aware of your own strengths and boundaries, be confident about them, develop a certain degree of stamina and learn to be comfortable with feeling uncomfortable sometimes.”

In your opinion, what is the biggest obstacle to women succeeding in the workplace?

“Usually, people feel comfortable when they are surrounded by colleagues similar to them, particularly when they are in a situation they consider to be ‘the norm’. However, women in aviation, at least in the technical field, are still not very common. It is still unusual, simply because there are fewer women than men in the business. So for me, I would say the biggest obstacle is not being visible enough.”

What would you say has been your career highlight to date?

There hasn’t been just one, there have been many highlights throughout my career -from the first heavy maintenance of an A346 with lower deck facility to the B747 maintenance check flight in Manila that my team accompanied.

“Working with any aircraft brings huge responsibility.”

Nicole Noack

I also worked with a senior Lufthansa captain in Beijing, integrating people into teams that no one believed in before. The most recent highlight certainly was the moment we officially launched the Independent Aircraft Modifier Alliance (IAMA) with four very different partners at AIX in Hamburg 2019.”

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

“Self-empowerment; belief in the knowledge that you always have a choice. You might not like it, but it’s your choice.”

What advice would you give to female professionals interested in a career in aviation?

“Go for it, do not hesitate.”

What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing the aviation industry?

“No matter how fast technologies develop or how fast the run is to lead a new market, safety must always come first. I’d say this is built into the DNA of the aviation industry but not necessarily their shareholders.”

What do you believe has been the biggest development in air travel over the past 25 years?

“Digitalisation – from fly-by-wire up to predictive maintenance and the digital processing for the passenger. But maybe that’s my slightly biased opinion coming from a computer science background!”

If you could change one thing in the aviation industry, what would it be?

“I wish the aviation industry together with other mobility providers would invest more in integrated mobile concepts, rather than inventing the next “individual” solution for transport.”

About Nicole Noack

Nicole Noack, Head of Independent Aircraft Modifier Alliance (IAMA) at Lufthansa Technik AG, is a passionate and experienced leader with a demonstrated history of working in the aviation and aerospace industry. Nicole has held several positions at Lufthansa Technik AG, including Project Manager / Contract Manager Heavy Maintenance; Manager Design Engineering Electrical and Communication Systems; Aircraft Modification – Strategic Partnerships; and most recently Head of IAMA.

Nicole is enthusiastic about disruptive approaches in industrial environments bringing people together to enact change for good. Skilled in cross-functional collaborations and situative leadership, Nicole has a strong sense for both individual and business needs. She is a strong believer in networks, cooperation and combining the strengths of individuals and companies.

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