Women of Aviation - Meet Eva Lederhilger
Interview / March 3, 2022
Every year on March 8th we are celebrating the social, economic and political achievements of women worldwide. At the same time, women are still excluded or simply underrepresented in various parts of the society. Gladly things are – slowly but surely – changing.
Female leadership and prospects of women in the aviation industry - an interview with our COO
The number of women working in the aviation sector has continually increased over the last centuries. While a few decades ago women were mainly found in the cabin crew sector, they are now present in almost all aviation professions today.
Due to our commitment for the aviation industry and the promotion of women, we want to dedicate a whole month to all the remarkable women worldwide. We want to spotlight six women and talk to them about their professional career, female leadership and their journey into the aviation and IT industry.
We are starting with ASQS Chief Operating Officer Eva Lederhilger, who is working for ASQS from the very beginning.
- Hello Eva! Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up in a rather small town in Upper Austria, but realized pretty soon, that I wanted to see what else was out there which led me abroad already during my early adult life. I was very fortunate to have had the opportunity to live abroad and experience different cultures at that stage, as it helped to shape my career path, including my background in Spanish and business administration, and ultimately led me to ASQS.
- Your biggest achievements?
Well, one thing that sticks out and that I am proud of is that I am being part of and instrumental in the growth of what was initially a very small company (I was the first employee at ASQS) into a renowned global player for safety and quality solutions in aviation. - What do you love the most about your job?
That no two days are the same. I find it really exciting to tackle new challenges on a daily basis and get to work with a great team of people.
Eva Lederhilger
Chief Operating Officer ASQS
Chief Operating Officer ASQS
”If you are determined to succeed at something, don’t let a male-dominated environment intimidate you”
Eva Lederhilger, COO ASQS
- What 5 personal characteristics describe you the best?
I am goal oriented, analytical, compassionate, versatile and not easily rattled. - Someone you look up to?
Someone I admire is Estée Lauder. She was a pioneer in the cosmetic industry. Her unbridled business determination and drive to succeed in an already highly competitive business was just inspiring. Her marketing ideas were very innovative and unique for the time. - How would you describe your leadership style?
I would like to think that my style is generally collaborative but firm when needed. - What is important to you when recruiting new employees?
A critical function of a well performing business is having synergy amongst the team, on a professional and personal level. We want people who enjoy working with and for each other.
Women in Aviation
- What advice would you give to the next generation of women considering a career in a male-dominated industry?
Don´t waiver in your passion or ambition. If you are determined to succeed at something, don´t let a male-dominated environment intimidate you. Stay committed and confident and you will have given yourself the best chance to succeed. - Returning to the aviation industry: How has it changed for women during your career?
Well, one thing that I have noticed is there being significantly more women in the industry in general. For example, when I first started going to conferences, I was one of the few women. Recently there have been a greater number of women attending aviation events, including our yearly organized IQSMS User Conference.