Meet Alexandra

What’s one thing that makes your job exciting or special?

My role is about keeping the big picture in view and identifying levers to strengthen our future. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities, which keeps things dynamic and exciting. I focus on how different projects and decisions fit together, and work towards ensuring our efforts turn ambition into reality. That mix of perspective, insight, and long-term thinking is what makes it so rewarding!

What inspired you to join Airbus? 

I was drawn to Airbus ever since I was a little girl aspiring to become a pilot. That fascination grew into a passion for the technology that makes flying possible, leading me to pursue an aeronautical engineering degree. 

Today, I feel immense pride knowing my work contributes to making the world safer, while being part of an organisation that sets the standard for excellence and innovation. Working at Airbus fulfills my childhood dream, and it inspires me every day to push boundaries, overcome challenges, and make a real difference!

How does your role contribute to Airbus’ mission or the success of its products?

I connect strategy and people to deliver solutions that advance the Airbus mission and product success. Recently, I led the deployment of the AI-based Autonomy Hub in Backnang, aiming at leveraging data-driven development techniques from autonomous driving to enhance our flight and mission systems. Coordinating this internal initiative across teams and aligning it with our strategic goals is an example of how I contribute to the big picture, turning innovative ideas into reality.

How has your career evolved since you joined Airbus?

I started my journey in Toulouse on the Airbus DISCO (Disruptive Cockpit) project, designing and testing autopilot functions to enable single-pilot operations on the A350. I later joined Airbus Defence and Space in Manching, continuing to deepen my expertise in Flight Control Systems as a systems engineer for major programmes like Eurofighter and FCAS, as well as research projects such as A3R (Automatic Air-to-Air Refuelling).

Over time, I became curious about the bigger picture — how decisions are made, how teams coordinate, and how innovation comes together. That curiosity led me to accept a role beyond my comfort zone as the Executive Assistant to the Head of Engineering for Air Power* , broadening my perspective to a helicopter view of the organisation. 

Recently, I was able to bring together my technical experience and organisational insights, taking on my current role as Strategy & Integration Manager for Air Power Engineering.

*Air Power is the part of Airbus responsible for the design, manufacture, and support of all military aircraft.

What’s your most memorable experience at Airbus? Why does it stand out?

I still recall stepping onto the Hamburg site for a students event, wide-eyed and taking it all in. Years later, I found myself leading the organisation of a student event in Manching, shaping the experience of dozens of participants. I also remember being selected for our Women’s Talent Programme, and later joining its coordination team, helping design the programme for others. Or contributing to project teams early in my career, and later leading work packages, steering contributions across teams and even companies.

This feeling — of growing and being able to “pay it forward” — is always emotional, reminding me of the challenges I’d faced, the moments I’d doubted myself, and the trust of every manager who believed in me. Looking back, these experiences leave me with an unforgettable sense of gratitude, pride, and purpose.

If you could give one piece of advice, what would it be?

It’s good to expect a lot from yourself — focus on what’s within your control, and remember you’re allowed to grow into the person you’re striving to become. High standards push you forward; self-compassion keeps you moving.

Which Airbus value resonates with you, and why?

Reliability resonates with me most because I take pride in delivering work that others can depend on. Knowing that my actions contribute to the safety, success, and reputation of Airbus drives me to hold myself accountable and maintain high standards, every day. Reliability, for me, isn’t only about consistency — it’s about building trust and enabling my team and our company to succeed!

What motivates you to keep growing in your career?

I’m motivated by making a difference — by work that has a positive impact on our teams, projects, and the products we deliver. Motivation comes when I see the results of my efforts, when my contributions matter beyond completing a task, and when I feel that what I do is more than just a job. For me, it’s the sense of purpose, responsibility, and real impact that keep me pushing forward.