Women in Maintenance and Engineering: Much has Changed, but There’s Still a way to go
20 years ago, Brussels Airlines proudly welcomed its first fully licensed female technician to its maintenance facilities. Carolien Sterckx began her career in the early 2000s and officially became licensed in August, 2005. Today, Brussels Airlines employs 28 women in its Maintenance and Engineering department, which still represents only 8% of the total workforce in that area.
Diversity and Inclusion at the core
Brussels Airlines values diversity and inclusion. A diverse workforce brings a wide range of skills, perspectives, and experiences, making the company more flexible and creative. These qualities are essential for innovation and adaptability. This diversity also enables a deeper understanding of customer needs, contributing to the development of more customer-focused products and services.
Overall, 52% of Brussels Airlines employees are women. Female representation is also strong at the executive level, where 9 out of 20 (47%) top managers are women. However, gender representation varies significantly across departments.
Ground Operations (including check-in, gate, and lounges) has the highest proportion of female employees at 76%, followed by Cabin Crew at 72%. Departments with the lowest representation of women include IT (26%), Cockpit (10%), and Maintenance and Engineering (8%).
A milestone in evolution
Exactly 20 years ago, the first woman became a fully licensed aircraft technician at Brussels Airlines. Carolien Sterckx, who is still at the company today, has transitioned from technician to a supervisory role.
“As a little girl, I was fascinated by airplanes, and even after 20 years in the industry, that fascination is still there. My job has changed over the years, but I still come to work with pleasure. And I’m happy I’m no longer the only woman in Maintenance and Engineering, and I’m looking forward to welcome even more female colleauges.”
– Carolien Sterckx, Maintenance Control Center Engineer, Brussels Airlines
Today, Carolien is joined by 27 other talented women in the Maintenance and Engineering department.
“I spent most of my career in administrative roles, but at one point I realized I wanted to work with my hands. That’s when I became a cabin technician at Brussels Airlines, and I haven’t regretted it since. It’s important to challenge stereotypes—women are just as capable as men in technical roles. Anyone who’s passionate about aviation and enjoys hands-on work is more than welcome.”
– Pascale Slootmans, Cabin Repair Technician, Brussels Airlines
Currently, Brussels Airlines has 24 open positions, 16 of which are in the Maintenance and Engineering department. All vacancies can be found on the careers page of the Brussels Airlines website.
