ARTS Group provides technical specialists for leading aerospace manufacturers, supporting complex projects in civil aviation, defence, and space. One of these professionals works as a Product Assurance Manager at Airbus Defence and Space, contributing to major missions such as HTV, MetOp-SG, and EUCLID. His role illustrates the level of expertise and responsibility ARTS Group brings into international aerospace programs.
From Air Force Technician to Space Programmes
His aerospace career began in the German Air Force, where he trained as an aircraft technician on the F-104G Starfighter. After roles with regional airlines and Zeppelin Luftschifftechnik, he helped build the first series-produced airship LZ NT07. This project stood out for its technical complexity and unconventional engineering challenges.
After a short detour into web development, he returned to the aviation sector. Over the years, he held positions as certified inspector, onboard technician, engineering manager, and head of quality assurance. Today, he is deployed by ARTS Group at Airbus Defence and Space as a Product Assurance Manager.
Quality Oversight for ISS Modules, Satellites, and Space Telescopes
As part of his current assignment, he supervises three international space projects:
- HTV (H-II Transfer Vehicle): Developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for JAXA, this unmanned spacecraft supplies the ISS with cargo and returns waste by controlled atmospheric reentry. Airbus Defence and Space produces essential components like Power Control Units (PCU) and Heater Control Units (HCU). All completed missions have been delivered successfully.
- MetOp-SG: A European Space Agency (ESA) weather satellite programme. The first launch is planned for 2025. Airbus is responsible for the High Power Amplifiers (HPA) used in these polar-orbiting satellites.
- EUCLID: A space telescope launched in July 2023 to study dark energy and dark matter. Airbus developed the Mass Memory Unit (MMU) used on board. EUCLID is now in orbit around Lagrange Point 2 (L2) in the Earth-Sun system.
As Product Assurance Manager, his responsibility is to ensure compliance with quality standards during production, documentation, and pre-delivery phases. This includes working directly with interdisciplinary teams, suppliers, and international customers.
Cross-border Teams, Tight Schedules, High Standards
Project teams are international, and English is the working language. “The teams are lean and collaborative. Everyone contributes specific expertise and works toward a shared result,” he explains.
Time pressure is a constant factor. Launch dates are fixed, and delays in procurement or production often require rescheduling and prioritisation. Quality requirements leave no room for compromise—non-conformities must be resolved and documented in close alignment with the customer. The work is technically demanding and process-driven.
ARTS Group: Technical Services for the Aerospace Industry
This case illustrates how ARTS Group integrates highly qualified professionals into high-impact aerospace projects across Europe. We support aerospace OEMs and suppliers throughout the aircraft and spacecraft lifecycle—from production and quality assurance to asset management and consulting.
Beyond individual placements, ARTS Group delivers integrated workforce solutions: project-based support, outsourced work packages, and on-site teams adapted to specific customer needs. All services are aligned with international quality standards such as ISO 9001 and EN 9100.
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