Susan Partridge (engineer)
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Sue Partridge | |
|---|---|
| Born | Susan Partridge |
| Nationality | British |
| Education | University of Cambridge |
| Occupation | Engineer |
| Engineering career | |
| Discipline | Aviation |
| Employer(s) | Airbus Wing of Tomorrow |
Sue Partridge is an aerospace engineer and businesswoman, who currently serves as the Airbus Commercial Aircraft UK Country Manager and is Head of the Wing of Tomorrow programme. Having spent three decades with Airbus, Partridge has played a crucial role in advancing wing technology and promoting sustainable aviation.
Education
[edit]Partridge earned her primary degree, an MA in Engineering, from the University of Cambridge. Furthering her expertise, Partridge obtained an MSc in Aerospace Manufacturing and Management with Distinction from the University of Bristol. She also completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management with Distinction from the Open University.[1]
Career
[edit]Partridge's journey with Airbus began in 1989 when she joined the company as an undergraduate engineering apprentice. In 2010, Partridge took on a significant role leading wing development activities for the A320neo and A330neo programmes. Her leadership was instrumental in delivering crucial upgrades to Airbus' wings, ensuring the timely entry into service of these aircraft.[2]
In 2017, Partridge was appointed Head of the Wing of Tomorrow (WoT) programme, marking a pivotal point in her career. The WoT programme is Airbus' largest research and technology initiative, focused on developing advanced wing technologies for future aircraft generations. Under Partridge's leadership, the programme has received substantial funding from the Aerospace Technology Institute, with £117 million awarded since 2014, highlighting its importance to the UK's aerospace industry.[3]
Most recently, she has frequently spoken on the research Wing of Tomorrow is conducting into zero emission flights.[4] Her work in the field has led to numerous industry awards, including becoming a fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering in 2024.[5]
References
[edit]- ^ "Wing of Tomorrow Program". Aeosociety.
- ^ Pfeifer, Sylvia (July 4, 2023). "Airbus moves ahead with UK lightweight wing programme". Financial Times.
- ^ Arthur, Andrew. "The only woman apprentice to head of site - Airbus' Filton boss on diversity in engineering". Business Live.
- ^ "Zero carbon flight 'as big a challenge as Concorde'". BBC. November 24, 2023.
- ^ "Sue Partridge". Royal Academy of Engineering.