As a program manager in the Eurodrone Programme, Darío takes decisions that will unfold their impact in the future.

“When I was a boy, I enjoyed to disassemble electronic household devices – and if I was lucky, I was able to put them back together.” Darío’s interest in how things work dates back to his childhood – his ability to assemble complex machines has come a long way since then. His passion for technology and aviation led him to a degree in aeronautical engineering. After starting his career as a trainee at Airbus, he set out to discover other parts of the industry, managing a wide variety of aerospace projects for a Spanish defense company, making his return to Airbus several years later. “We participated in the Eurofighter programme as suppliers… and at one point I was contacted by Airbus. They asked me if I wanted to join them for a new challenge: the A400M.” Darío agreed – and this time, he stayed longer. “I have to admit that I thought I would be working for Airbus for three to five years before moving somewhere else. That was almost 20 years ago. And I hope there are many more to come in the Eurodrone programme.”

“Every day is different and brings new challenges. We are working with great dedication to ensure we are ready to start! This is quite motivating, isn’t it?”

One reason for him staying at Airbus is the possibility to constantly develop his career inside the company. As the Integrated Logistic Support Programme Manager, Darío makes sure that the Eurodrone programme is future-proof. “If you have a car, it is designed and supported – so that it delivers the service you buy it for. In our programme it’s the same. In ILS we ensure that supportability aspects are considered during the design, development and production. We will manage the in-service support of the Eurodrone to ensure the customers can focus on their missions.” What sounds simple is actually quite complex: every decision that is taken today has implications for the future operational success of the platform. “Eurodrone is still in an early phase. That means that we have the possibility to capitalize on all that we have learned in the past. I can apply all my experience from the A400M programme to make sure that we take the smartest decision for the future.”

What is especially exciting for Dario is the fact that Eurodrone might use technologies that don’t even exist today. In this complex environment, people with diverse skillsets and academic backgrounds closely collaborate in this complex environment.

“Are you a pioneer? Do you have an entrepreneurial spirit? Would you like to innovate? If the answer to any of the question is yes, then Eurodrone is your program.”

“Digital technology is not only part of our products but also defines how we work together. With Digital Design, Manufacturing & Services (DDMS), Airbus is implementing its own digital-first approach to the design, manufacture and operation of aerospace products.” Darío invites anyone to bring their skills to the programme, to experience that unique environment and have a real impact. “Eurodrone will develop technological capacities that don’t exist today.” Dario is confident that the right decisions are taken to make it a reality – and leaves little reason for doubt.” Dario is confident that the right decisions are taken to make it a reality – and leaves little reason for doubt.