Meet Eldridge

What made you choose Airbus as the start of your career?

I wanted to start my career somewhere my work would have a tangible, global impact. Knowing that the data models I work on help connect people all over the world is incredibly rewarding. Airbus offered the perfect runway to merge my love for data with real-world, high-stakes problem solving.

How has your career evolved since you joined Airbus?

It has been a fantastic journey of continuous growth! Diving deep into analytics as a Data Analyst. As I grew more comfortable navigating our complex data landscapes, my focus shifted toward designing broader data structures. Now, I am stepping into a Data Architect role coming July - evolving from analysing the data to actually designing the blueprint for how we store, integrate, and utilise it across our day to day operations.

What piece of advice would you give to a new intern or graduate joining Airbus?

Don't be afraid of the unknown! The aerospace industry is incredibly complex, and you won't know everything on day one - and that is perfectly okay. My biggest professional growth came from the moments I was most challenged by a tough dataset or an unfamiliar system. Embrace the learning curve, ask a million questions, and remember that every problem you solve builds your resilience.

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

Hands down, it has been serving as a mentor for the Airbus Fly Your Ideas (FYI) competition 2026. Being able to guide brilliant, enthusiastic students as they tackle real-world aerospace challenges is beyond inspiring. Seeing their "Aha!" moments when we crack a tough problem together reminds me exactly why working in Airbus has produced many unforgettable experiences.

What would you say to someone who doesn’t think they “fit” in aerospace?

Aerospace isn't just for aeronautical engineers! 

It takes a massive, diverse city to build and maintain aircraft. Whether your background is in data science (like me!), finance, design, or HR, there is absolutely a place for you here. We need diverse perspectives and out-of-the-box thinkers to drive innovation. Bring your unique skills to the table - you'll be surprised at how well you fit.

Which Airbus value resonates with you, and why?

"Teamwork". 

In a multinational company such as Airbus, you simply cannot succeed in a silo. It takes seamless collaboration across engineering, supply chain, and data teams to keep our planes flying. I see this exact same collaborative spirit when mentoring for the Fly Your Ideas competition - watching students from totally different backgrounds team up to hack complex challenges proves that the best innovations happen when we work together. This value perfectly reflects the supportive and inclusive environment at Airbus, where everyone’s unique contribution is valued to achieve our shared mission.

What’s one message you’d like to share with the next generation of aerospace professionals?

The future of flight is highly data-driven and more advanced than ever before, and you have the power to shape how the next generation travels. 

The sky isn’t the limit - it’s just your starting point!

Do you have a favourite quote or mantra that inspires you in your work?

"Everyone is a programmer now. You just have to say something to the computer." — Jensen Huang

Do you think "Fly Your Ideas" is a good way to find out more about Airbus?

Absolutely! It’s an incredible backstage pass. You get to interact directly with Airbus experts, understand the actual, pressing challenges the industry is facing today, and experience our collaborative culture firsthand. It is so much more valuable than just reading a brochure or anything off a website.

What do you enjoy most about being a FYI mentor?

I love the raw energy and fresh perspectives the students bring. As professionals, it's easy to get stuck in our usual ways of doing things, but mentees constantly ask "Why not?" questions that challenge my own perspective. It’s truly a two-way experience for learning.

Do you have any interesting/funny facts you shared with a mentee? 

People are usually shocked to learn that the Airbus Asia Training Centre (AATC) right here in Singapore is actually the largest Airbus-operated flight crew training facility in the world! It is a massive operation, and it happens right in our backyard.