Meet Ashwin

Explain what you do in simple terms

I'm responsible for the design and approval of repairs on fuselage and doors of Airbus aircraft to ensure their safety and airworthiness. 

What motivated you to pursue a Master’s degree at IIT Madras while continuing your role?

My motivation stems from a strong belief in continuous learning. The Airbus-sponsored Master’s in Aerospace Engineering at IIT Madras was the ideal path to gain critical insights beyond my mechanical background and keep my expertise relevant and valuable. 

What were your biggest challenges with balancing both, and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge was switching daily from a high-demand, target-driven environment to immediate academic study. I overcame this with commitment and a strict routine. When a critical delegation interview collided with term exams, I focused strictly on high-value tasks: personal time went to interview prep, while my daily study habit carried me through the exams. 

What was the most significant shift in perspective you gained at IIT Madras for your engineering career?

Coming from a mechanical background, my focus was purely on structural analysis. The Master's programme opened my eyes to the broader aerospace system, covering flight mechanics, aerodynamics, and control systems.This expanded view lets me approach my work at Airbus with a comprehensive perspective and lays the groundwork for tackling interdisciplinary challenges. 

Looking back, how did the programme serve as a personal stepping stone, translating your individual growth at Airbus?

It gave me a huge confidence boost. Defending my thesis sharpened my communication skills that I immediately used when presenting at Airbus India.

Juggling high stakes built the time-management needed to step into a technical leadership role in Fatigue & Damage Tolerance in India. Ultimately, it pushed me past my comfort zone, opening the door for my move to Hamburg. 

How did the work environment and culture help you navigate this balance? 

Airbus provided the ideal platform for my development. When my thesis required cross-department collaboration, stakeholders across different teams welcomed me and gave immediate support.

My team's culture was key: they enabled me to take time off for critical academic deadlines without the weight of operational pressure. That flexibility became a real pillar of strength for me. Ultimately, the department's support for my relocation to Hamburg truly demonstrates the nurturing, growth-oriented culture here.

How would you sum up your journey from Bangalore to your current role in Hamburg?

Over seven years at Airbus in Bangalore, I grew from handling day-to-day structural repairs to becoming a technical lead and lead certifier for critical aircraft components. Earning my Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering during that time grounded my hands-on experience in advanced theory. Today, I bring that exact mix of practical expertise and academic background to my current role in Hamburg, supporting global engineering projects. 

Finally, what advice would you share with colleagues who are inspired by your journey and are considering how to pursue their own growth and development at Airbus?

It’s demanding, but worth every bit of effort. My advice would be to stay curious and push through the tough weeks. The skills you gain won't just advance your career, they immediately bring value to your team. Airbus truly invests in people who want to grow, so if the opportunity is there, take it. I'm deeply grateful I did.