Beth Moreton
Head of Engineering for Hydrogen Systems, Airbus
Engineer Beth Moreton is part of the team involved in developing the world’s first hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft. She explains why it’s such an exciting place to be.
When she was studying for her mechanical engineering degree, Beth Moreton never dreamed that she would end up working on cutting-edge aviation technology for aerospace company Airbus. As Head of Engineering for Hydrogen Systems, she is involved in developing the world’s first hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft.
Sustainable aviation with hydrogen-powered aircraft
“We plan to have a hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft with entry in service by 2035,” explains Beth. “That’s an ambitious target. Yet, the amount of investment Airbus has made, the technical knowledge we’ve developed and the number of talented people working on this project underlines just how serious we are about making decarbonised aviation a reality.”
This is not to say every day is straightforward because breaking new ground never is. “It can be frustrating sometimes; the level of challenge we’re dealing with is so high,” admits Beth. “But everyone on the team is enthusiastic and committed because we all know we’re involved in something significant and positive.”
We plan to have a hydrogen-powered commercial
aircraft with entry in service by 2035.
Best ways to start exploring an engineering career
Beth started working for Airbus during her degree. “I completed a one-year industry placement with the company,” she explains. “After I finished university, a contact of mine at Airbus saw a role they thought I would be right for and encouraged me to apply for it.” She joined full-time as a Fuel Systems Engineer in 2008 and worked on the A320 and A380 before moving into the world of hydrogen power.
“It makes me proud to see more women entering as graduates and apprentices. The message that we belong in engineering is obviously filtering through,” she says.
Anyone interested in a high-flying engineering career should investigate the range of training schemes, mentorships, apprenticeships and graduate programmes offered across the sector, insists Beth. “I’d encourage anyone to go for it. I’ve always found engineering to be an interesting and fulfilling career option. The people I work with are so inspiring, with a real ‘can do’ attitude.”