Meet Wei Chih

Material Planner
Airbus Helicopters
Taiwan

Meet Wei Chih

What is your current role and where are you based?

I am currently a Material Planner at Airbus Helicopters in Taiwan, and will soon be moving to a procurement role. As a Material Planner, my responsibilities are both challenging and fulfilling, involving the management of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) orders, preparation and coordination of parts, discussions on parts availability, and overseeing lease management of parts. I appreciate my supervisor who recognised my potential for expanded responsibilities: with the increasing demand in general procurement, this transition became a natural next step in my career.

What inspired you to be a part of the aerospace sector?

Before joining the aviation industry, I had yet to explore this fascinating realm, rich with opportunities and possibilities. I was captivated by the idea of witnessing a product’s journey from initial concept to final assembly, evolving from a mere idea into a fully functional aircraft. Playing a role in such a significant process fills me with immense satisfaction and fuels my passion for my work.

Concerning the beginning of your career path at Airbus, what was the main drive that led you to apply and be part of this company?

After nearly a decade in international sales, I realized it was time to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new challenges. Around this time, I discovered an exciting opportunity at Airbus Helicopters in Taiwan. Motivated by a desire to broaden my expertise and grow professionally, I was inspired to pursue this role at Airbus.

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

One of the most enriching aspects of my role is the cultural diversity at our workplace. Every team member brings a unique set of experiences and perspectives that enrich our collective efforts and drive our success. Despite our varied approaches, we find common ground that strengthens collaboration and sparks innovation. And working in Taiwan for Airbus - a global multinational corporation - provides an ideal environment to refine my English communication skills in a professional setting, enhancing my ability to communicate effectively across different cultures.

Tell us about one of the most memorable experiences from your career at Airbus. What made it so special and unforgettable?

Upon joining Airbus, I was assigned to a project that was well underway. My task was to sift through extensive records to extract essential information about spare parts – a challenging assignment, especially to a newcomer to aviation. I was still familiarising myself with the technical terminology and the specific requirements of our customer, making the work initially daunting. 
However, I committed myself to understanding the components involved and gradually uncovered key insights that proved invaluable to the project. Successfully completing this task not only boosted my confidence but also gave me a deep sense of accomplishment and a solid foundation in my new role.

What is the most important advice you have been given, and is there any advice you would like to give?

Growing up in Taiwan I was taught to respect rules and procedures, but working at Airbus taught me the value of advocating for improvements. During one project, I identified a workflow enhancement that could be achieved with additional equipment. After carefully analysing the potential benefits, I presented a well-structured case to my manager to secure the necessary tools. This experience highlighted Airbus' ‘speak up’ culture, where constructive feedback is valued and actively considered to drive continuous improvement.

What has been one of the most empowering moments at Airbus?

A particularly empowering moment for me was when a project deadline was looming, and overtime seemed likely. My manager sought my input, and I confidently shared my belief that we could meet the deadline without extra hours. Not only did my manager listen, he also trusted my judgment enough to relay it to senior management. This experience left me feeling truly valued and respected, strengthening my commitment to delivering high-quality work.

What are the benefits of working at Airbus?

The most significant benefit of working at Airbus is the cultural diversity that enriches our workplace, bringing together unique perspectives and ideas. I also deeply appreciate the supportive environment fostered by both managers and colleagues, which creates a collaborative atmosphere. Furthermore, Airbus’ strong commitment to personal and professional growth makes it an ideal place to develop and thrive.

In what way do the values of Airbus relate to your own?

Airbus’ values strongly align with my personal beliefs. The company fosters a culture of continuous learning and self-improvement, providing a wealth of online courses and resources that empower employees to explore new areas and enhance their skills. Airbus promotes internal mobility, motivating employees to seek new opportunities and advance in their careers, inspiring me to embrace new challenges.

Do you have any hobbies? How do you enjoy spending your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy a variety of activities that help me unwind and rejuvenate. Reading lets me dive into new ideas and perspectives, while swimming and badminton keep me active and energised. I also make time for the gym. Above all, I cherish the moments spent with my family and my dog!