Meet Markus

Define your job title in one sentence

I manage and coordinate the production of the H160 structure with 75 employees.

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

I am excited by the fact that through targeted action as a team, we can make things possible that were previously thought impossible. Finding a technical solution that makes helicopter delivery possible at the end of the day is a great success.

What inspired you to join Airbus? 

Airbus has been my great passion for almost 20 years now. Even as a teenager, it was always clear to me that I would find my passion in helicopter assembly.

Is there something that surprised you about working for Airbus?

Everyone can and does participate in the company's progress and they can make their own contribution with their own ideas.

Explain what you do in simple terms

In my department, I ensure that all occupational safety rules and principles are adhered to. I am also responsible for the timely delivery of the helicopter models and preparing the necessary personnel planning. Of course, this must also be done within the budget, which I also check on a regular basis. The further development and training of employees is also one of my core tasks, because compliance with the extensive quality specifications and standards must always be adhered to by everyone. Through active contact with the team and the group leaders, I ensure an open and good working atmosphere.

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

I help to ensure that the Donauwörth site remains a leader in structural assembly work.

How has Airbus supported your career growth or personal development?

From my first day as a skilled worker, Airbus gave me the best possible support in my development as a manager. My tasks were expanded step by step and I was able to complete further training to become an industrial foreman. My management skills were extensively developed both in-house and external training courses.

How has your career evolved since you joined Airbus?

I started as an apprentice at Airbus and was trained as an aircraft mechanic. After a few years as a skilled worker, I was appointed a team leader in production and had maintenance assignments for customers. I began my First Line Manager training and was also supported internally to be able to advance to foreman. I have been working as a line manager since the end of 2017 and lead a team of 75 people.

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

I was able to disassemble a complete Airbus A320 emergency exit door into all its individual parts in order to then check the quality of the suppliers.

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

A certain type of rivet could not meet the quality and safety requirements. I escalated this issue and worked on the problem with the design team. The assembly  documents were changed and this connection is now no longer riveted but screwed.

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

It is important to learn and understand the processes completely from day one in order to be able to understand and meet the quality requirements in the long term.

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

It is of great personal benefit for anyone to work in aviation at Airbus, as over time a whole new understanding of precision and quality develops. You can often benefit from this in your personal life through the technical understanding that images are also all work in your own home can be performed.

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

I think any uncertainty is no longer relevant, once there is the will to learn something new.

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

It is important not to be overly proud, our goal is always to produce a safe product together.

What do you appreciate most about Airbus as a workplace?

Working with colleagues on a very human basis and, as part of Airbus Helicopters, still being able to actively shape the future of the company.

Which Airbus value resonates with you, and why?

Creativity based thinking is for me the most important thing to advance Airbus Helicopters.

How does Airbus support you in maintaining work-life balance?

Private appointments and problems are always taken into consideration

What motivates you to keep growing in your career?

The will to contribute my own skills to the company in a way that is as efficient and beneficical as possible.

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

We do not want to look for our own or other people's mistakes and point them out, but we should, and then we  find a solution together.

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

If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go with your team.

Career path at Airbus

2005-2009 Trainee aircraft mechanic

Airbus Helicopters, Donauwörth

2009-2015 Aircraft mechanic and group leader CH53

Airbus Helicopters, Donauwörth

2015-2017 Supervisor/ Foreman CH53

Airbus Helicopters, Donauwörth

2017- now First line Manager H160 Airframe 

Airbus Helicopters, Donauwörth