When employees at ARTS Group talk about their careers, it becomes clear how diverse and technically challenging the aviation industry can be. In this article, one of our colleagues shares how he joined ARTS Group and what his day-to-day work at Diehl Aviation Gilching GmbH looks like.
From Renewable Energy to Aviation Engineering
What was your background before joining ARTS Group?
My original plan was to become a pilot. That ambition started in the early 90s when my father and I used to pick up my mother from the airport. I was fascinated by the aircraft and everything around them. But the cost of pilot training ultimately pushed me in a different direction.
I completed an apprenticeship as a process mechanic in the metallurgical and semi-finished products sector at Bayer Solar GmbH and later studied industrial engineering through a dual program. I moved through several roles, from production employee to department head, and focused increasingly on process optimisation and cost-efficiency projects. For nearly two decades I worked in the solar industry, until the insolvency of SolarWorld in 2017 forced a change. That’s when I transitioned into aviation, starting in Dresden.
Project Management in Aircraft Equipment Development
Diehl Aviation Gilching GmbH develops equipment for commercial aircraft manufactured by companies such as Airbus, Boeing, Gulfstream and Embraer. Their focus includes kitchen systems and water systems – both fresh water and waste water. ARTS Group supports Diehl with highly qualified specialists across Europe.
What were the biggest challenges at the beginning?
As someone entering the aviation sector from another industry, I had to adjust quickly. For example, I was surprised at how long development cycles can be – even for relatively small components. But that’s because aviation is highly regulated. Every product, every design change, goes through extensive testing and certification. Safety and reliability are non-negotiable. Once that was clear to me, it made sense why even minor changes can take years to implement.
What are your current responsibilities?
I manage several development projects, primarily for the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777X programs. Each project typically includes a team of five to six specialists from different technical areas. The goals are focused: meet deadlines, stay within budget, and deliver products that improve aircraft efficiency. That often means reducing component weight and cost – challenges I was already familiar with from my previous work in solar manufacturing.
One project I temporarily took over involved the development of lightweight toilets – a completely new product that was already well advanced when I joined. Stepping into a lead role mid-project, especially in a new industry, was demanding. But it gave me the chance to grow quickly and gain hands-on experience with aviation development cycles.
Aviation as a Long-Term Career Path
Do you regret moving into aviation?
Not at all. Joining ARTS Group and working with Diehl was the right move. The learning curve was steep, but the experience has been incredibly rewarding. A few years ago, I wouldn’t have imagined I’d be involved in projects for Airbus or Boeing. Now it’s part of my daily routine. That’s something I’m proud of.
There’s still a certain fascination that aviation holds for me, and it hasn’t faded. I look forward to continuing my work in this field – and to contributing to projects that are shaping the future of air travel.
At ARTS Group, we combine technical expertise with a hands-on approach. Our teams work on-site with OEMs and MROs across Europe, supporting the full aircraft lifecycle – from development and production to maintenance and end-of-life solutions. For professionals looking to build a career in aviation, we offer opportunities that are both challenging and meaningful.
Interested in joining the team?