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Volocopter is proud of its innovative electric propulsion systems. After all, this is the technology that enables our electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to fly sustainably. Volocopter is also very proud of its team – bright minds who work relentlessly to ensure our technology complies with aviation’s highest performance and safety standards. Jagriti Kumari, a Battery Systems Engineer on Volocopter’s Propulsion team, is one of them. With a passion for sustainable mobility solutions and a tech-savvy mindset, Jagriti is pushing the boundaries of innovation to make battery-electric aviation safe. Keep reading to explore Jagriti’s work at Volocopter, her thoughts on gender diversity in aviation, and one or two pieces of advice she has for young women keen to join the industry.
Jagriti, can you summarize your role at Volocopter?
As a Battery Systems Engineer in Volocopter’s propulsion team, I oversee all battery certification-related tasks and requirements. This includes collaborating closely with the battery design team to define, integrate, optimize, and ensure the safety and performance of the battery to fulfill aircraft needs and requirements for type certification with the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
This role is very challenging, but since I thrive on challenges and am fortunate to have a fantastic team to rely on, I also find my role highly motivating. I can easily say that my work as a part of the propulsion team directly impacts Volocopter’s mission to make battery-electric aviation safe and a reality.
You previously worked in the automotive industry before transitioning to aviation. What prompted this switch?
I worked in the automotive industry for most of my career. During this time, I lived in Bangalore, India. For the readers that do not know, Bangalore is one of the most congested cities in the world; it has a population of around 8 million. One day, stuck in traffic and trying to move from one part of the city to another, I caught myself thinking about how Bangalore needs a new mobility concept powered by sustainable batteries, something that would allow people to travel in 10-15 minutes within the city environment, not limited to the ground infrastructure because the streets are already fully packed.
Following developments in battery engineering across different industries, I came across Volocopter’s eVTOL aircraft and its air taxi use case. While numerous entities worldwide are engaged in electric aviation, the company’s dynamic start-up culture and the potential for growth in the aviation sector were evident from the outset. This was the lightbulb moment where I thought, “That’s something I would love to work on.” Volocopter’s mission to bring sustainable air mobility to life perfectly matched my personal vision for a new mode of mobility and passion for developing sustainable batteries. Then, one thing led to another, and I received a job offer from Volocopter, enabling me to switch to the aviation industry.
Was transitioning to the aviation industry a challenge for you?
Of course, I experienced challenges in the first few months. However, I never felt alone in addressing these challenges because my colleagues were always incredibly supportive. They provided me with the knowledge and space to learn more, reinforcing the “can do” mindset I already had. While these industries are different, the priority on safety remains the same. This resonated with what I believe and helped me quickly adapt my skillset to Volocopter.
Speaking about Volocopter, you moved to Germany from India over a year ago to join the company. How was your transition to the new workplace?
My move from India to Germany for Volocopter was a significant change in my life (as I had never even visited Germany before), but now that I look back, I realize the transition felt surprisingly easy. For this, I must give credit to my colleagues. From the start, everyone here was highly accommodating, answering all my questions about relocation, documentation, work, and private life in Germany.
Once I moved to Germany and started work, I had the chance to immerse myself in the world of air mobility with other new joiners. During the extensive two weeks of onboarding, we met team members from different departments as they shared insights into their roles, how their departments operate, tips and tricks, and even how to use the coffee machine! Nonetheless, one of the highlights of these exchanges came during a small hangar tour, the place where our team usually conducts flight tests. There, I saw the VoloCity aircraft for the first time. Seeing it in real life made me realize the project's scale and Volocopter's pioneering role in sustainable air mobility.
On the topic of #WomeninAviation, let’s discuss gender diversity. Do you think more women are finding their way into the industry?
Having joined the aviation industry only a year ago, I cannot speak about whether more women are entering the industry. However, one thing I do know for sure is that very few women pursue careers in Battery Systems Engineering.
Social norms often suggest that working with batteries is unsuitable for women due to the safety risks involved, making women feel more cautious about taking on this career path. While safety concerns exist, with the right knowledge and proper handling, I think both women and men can equally pursue this profession.
For example, consider the rigorous safety training programs that all battery systems engineers must undergo. These programs are designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, is equipped with the skills and knowledge to handle batteries safely. Furthermore, technological advancements have made working with batteries safer than ever, with automated systems and protective gear reducing the risk of accidents. There are inspiring examples of women who have excelled in this field, demonstrating that "batteries do not discriminate" if you're a woman or a man. Anyone can thrive in this industry!
What are the most significant opportunities and challenges for women in aviation in the upcoming years?
The biggest opportunities for women in aviation lie in the continuous advancement of technology (like eVTOLs) and the increasing demand for skilled professionals. This will give women more opportunities to test their skills and be seen. When it comes to challenges, I wouldn’t say there will be specific challenges solely for women in the industry. As new technologies emerge, all genders must focus on learning and upskilling themselves. In other words, to remain relevant and enhance our careers, all of us must continuously stay updated.
Have you drawn inspiration from other women working in aviation?
Oftentimes, I look up to and get inspired by women outside of my expertise. One of them is Amelia Earhart. She was incredibly determined and demonstrated that you can break gender stereotypes through hard work, persistence, constant effort, and a passion for what you do. Her many records, including her solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean, opened a new chapter for women in aviation. Additionally, women at Volocopter from other departments, including female members of the senior management team, also inspire me. They bring both empathy and leadership to the table, something that encourages me to aim higher as a woman.
What’s the most memorable advice you have ever received?
My mentor in my first Battery job once advised, "Keep learning and ensure you continuously upskill yourself before you ask for anything. Strive to be your best, and you will find numerous opportunities and doors opening for you." This advice stayed with me the most. For instance, new technical skills can be acquired online, and I took this opportunity for my self-improvement. Thanks to these new skills, I contributed more effectively to my team and gained recognition from my managers and peers, eventually leading to a promotion.
On this note, what advice would you give young women considering a career in aviation?
Break away from the existing gender stereotypes. Believe in yourself, and put your mind, soul, and heart into whatever you do. In time, you will see everything aligning with your goals. The only limitation is yourself!
Anything else you’d like to add?
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone I have worked with so far for always treating me with equality and respect. A special thanks to my Volocopter team for giving me the opportunity to work on such an incredible project and for their unwavering support and encouragement. Your continued support has been instrumental in my growth and success. Lastly, I sincerely thank you for the opportunity to share my journey and experiences with you! Thank you, Jagriti, for your time and thoughts! We hope your story reaches and inspires many women, especially those who may be hesitant about pursuing a career in Battery Systems Engineering.
If you find this story inspiring and wish to learn more about career opportunities at Volocopter, don’t hesitate to visit our career site.
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