Head of Comms Systems Architecture
Airbus Defence and Space
Spain

Veronica Puertas

Veronica Puertas

What is your name, job title, and where are you based?

My name is Veronica Puertas, working at Airbus Defence and Space in Getafe, as Head of Comms Systems Architecture Team.

Define your job title in one sentence

I lead a team of product managers focused on aircraft communications and connectivity engineering. Together, we build our technologies roadmap and work closely with Chief Engineers and Programme Offices to agree exactly what our customers need - offering them the most suitable solutions based on synergies and experience across platforms.

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

My job has this amazing mix of two things: real impact on people and a real impact on the business. I am very proud of the team we have built here—we have managed to find that balance between values and technical skills.

That is exactly what it takes to shape the future of Connectivity at Air Power; we are developing innovative products that improve how our customers operate, all while empowering the next generation of professionals and leaders. It is rewarding and exciting to be a part of this every day. 

What inspired you to join Airbus?

The moment I walked into the Getafe site and saw the scale of the place, I knew I had to be a part of it. It just felt so unique. Being a Telecommunications Engineer, I found my fit right in the Comms engineering team. Since then, I have developed a strong sense of ownership over my work, contributing to push the Airbus mission forward. 

Explain what you do in simple terms

Leading a technical team really comes down to two main jobs.

Half the time, I am focused on our customers, listening to their aircraft comms needs, advising them, and making sure our engineering team delivers high-quality solutions on time and within budget.

The other half is all about our people. I share the day-to-day work with our product managers, system architects, experts and certification specialists, while taking care of their wellbeing and development. We work closely to identify their strengths and growth opportunities.  

How has your career evolved since you joined Airbus?

Over these 20 years at Airbus, I have moved from being a COMMS Systems Engineer to leading an engineering team. My path included an international chapter in the UK, leading technical work for avionics on combat and transport platforms, and responsibility for our communications products.

I have truly grown both as a person and a professional here. The time overseas opened my eyes to working in multicultural teams, and the technical and leadership roles along the way have really shaped the manager I am today.

Which Airbus value resonates with you, and why?

Respect and Integrity are my fundamental ones at Airbus. I see them as the foundation that holds everything together.

It is not possible to have great teamwork or creativity without respecting your colleagues and their ideas. Likewise, being reliable and customer-focused requires a lot of respect and integrity. I do my best to live these values in my day-to-day work. 

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

I feel deeply committed to delivering real value to our customers and meeting their expectations. For me, it is important to take care of the people who make it possible, because at the end of the day people really make the difference.

Our employees are our best ambassadors