Meet Merve

Define your job title in one sentence

As an aircraft technician at Airbus I am responsible for installing electronic and avionic systems that ensure the safety of the aircraft.

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

One thing that makes my job exciting and special is knowing that everything I install directly contributes to making air travel safe and reliable. As well as knowing that I am one small part why people get to travel from A to B to see their family and friends.

What inspired you to join Airbus?

Aviation has always fascinated me and I used to watch every documentary on YouTube and I'd always wanna learn more about the behind the scenes of flying. What is behind it all, and who are the people that make all this happen. My dad knew off my passion and signed me up for a placement programme, which then led to me starting my vocational training back in 2018 at 16 years. I even wrote in a friend's book as a kid (I was 13 back then) that my biggest dream was to work at Airbus and now I'm living that dream.

Is there something that surprised you about working for Airbus?

It's the human connections that mostly stand out for me, the support behind every challenge we are facing, experienced colleagues who are willing to share their knowledge with you, teams that lift and support each other up. Seeing all of that combined is truly something special for me and I cherish that a lot.

Explain what you do in simple terms

I work in the forward section of the A350. My main responsibility is to install the electrical systems that help the aircraft operate safely. This means I connect wiring harnesses, which are like bundles of cables that carry electricity and signals between different parts of the plane. I also install antennas that allow the airplane to communicate with air traffic control and navigate during flight. 

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

My and my team's work ensures that the aircraft can operate safely, which is a big milestone for all of us. It makes us proud to build such complex components daily.

How has Airbus supported your career growth or personal development?

My first line manager gradually gave me more responsibilities to help me smoothly become one of the team leaders. Now, I am a team leader for my group, responsible for distributing tasks within the team and acting as the main interface between shopfloor and management. Looking back to when I first started after my vocational training, I feel much more confident today.

In January this year, I began my Industrial Master training for Aviation (Industriemeister für Luftfahrttechnik). To fully focus on my education, I took a six-month break from work. During this time, I received a lot of support from my team and first line manager, for which I am very grateful. Their encouragement allowed me to concentrate 100% on my career development.

How has your career evolved since you joined Airbus?

I started my career at Airbus in 2018 as an apprentice, completing a 3,5 year training program. Right after that, I began working in the A350 equipment Installation department. After one year, I was chosen to become one of the team leaders. Since then, I have been co-leading my team alongside my colleague, and I really enjoy the challenges that have helped me grow personally and continue to develop.

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

I got chosen by Airbus Germany to take part in the official recruitment video for my job, where I had the opportunity to portray my job. The video was even published on YouTube. I'm especially proud to represent my role as a woman in this field, as it’s something truly special in an industry like aviation.

Is there a specific project or moment you’re particularly proud of? Why?

Being a small part building the first and new A350 freighter section was a truly special and meaningful experience in my career. Watching all support functions collaborate to overcome this new challenge reminded me once again why I’m so passionate about working in production.

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in aerospace?

Don’t hesitate to ask questions, especially in our industry where everything is so complex and things can feel overwhelming at first, feel free to ask as many questions. Every detail matters, and every role counts. Learn from those around you, work as a team, and believe in yourself. You’re part of something so unique and rare. Keep pushing, keep learning, and enjoy the journey, because we make it fly!

What advice would you give to someone considering a career at Airbus?

There’s truly a place for everyone here. Aviation is such a big field, from engineering, manufacturing to logistics, IT etc. No matter your skills or interests, you can find a role that fits you and will help you grow. Stay curious, be open to learning, and embrace the opportunity to work on something that literally changes the world.

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

What matters most is your passion, willingness to learn, and how you bring your unique skills to the team. You belong here :)

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

Starting so young in such a big environment wasn't easy at first so don’t be afraid to seek help, admit what you don’t know, and learn from every experience. That mindset has been key in my personal journey and can help anyone grow and succeed in this amazing industry.

What do you appreciate most about Airbus as a workplace?

I love how people from so many different countries and cultures come together to build such an incredible product. Meeting colleagues from all over the world and seeing everyone connect and collaborate to build aircraft has been one of my most favorite things of working at Airbus.

Which Airbus value resonates with you, and why?

Respect -  Growing up my parents always taught me to treat everyone with respect and kindness. In a workplace like Airbus, where so many cultures come together, it’s even more important to live by these values every day. Respect builds trust and helps a positive and safe environment.

What motivates you to keep growing in your career?

What motivates me to keep growing in my career is the constant challenge and opportunity to learn something new every day.

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

Each and every one of you counts, and you all have your own dreams and goals. Never let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve what you set your mind to.

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

“Es gibt keine Probleme, nur Lösungen”  meaning there are no problems, only solutions. An elderly man told me this during my placement back in 2016, and it has stuck with me ever since. Whenever I face challenges or doubts, I remind myself of this, it helps me stay focused on finding a way forward instead of getting stuck.