Women In
Technical Aviation
at STS
Q&A with Chantel Spiteri
Chantel Spiteri
Head of Airworthiness (HoA) at Part 21 Design International Limited (Part of STS)
Role and Background
Can you tell us about your role at STS and your journey in aviation so far?
I currently work as Head of Airworthiness within the Part 21 Design International which is now part of the Shannon Technical Services (STS) group. I’ve been working in aviation since 2018, having started my career in the MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Operations) sector with Lufthansa Technik Malta before moving into a Part 21 design organisation.
I joined the company at a very early stage, before it even held its design approval, so I was involved not only as a design engineer but also in the approval process itself. That exposure gave me a deep understanding of how a Part 21 design organisation operates beyond the day to day engineering work.
As the organisation grew, I progressed into a Compliance Verification Engineer role, specialising in cabin safety, before being promoted to Head of Airworthiness. Today, I have overall responsibility for closing projects, ensuring technical compliance and safety, and managing the day to day operation of the team.
Understanding Part 21 Design
For those less familiar with Part 21, what does your work typically involve?
Our current approval focuses on minor modifications and repairs, primarily within the aircraft cabin. This includes items such as carpets, curtains, placards and other cabin configuration changes that require design approval.
We also support external work such as paint schemes, liveries and aircraft markings. The work is very varied and fast paced, often driven by last minute operational needs from customers. Alongside this, we are actively working towards expanding our approval to include major modifications.
Career Inspiration
What inspired you to pursue a career in technical aviation?
Aviation and engineering have always been passions of mine. While studying engineering at university, I was also completing my private pilot’s licence. I enjoy flying, but I wanted to keep it as a hobby and combine my two interests through an engineering career in aviation.
My inspiration for engineering came from my grandfather, who worked in a shipyard and was extremely hands on and technical. Spending time in his workshop had a big influence on me, and aviation felt like a natural extension of that interest.
Proud Moments
Is there a particular achievement you are most proud of?
Every project is different, and it’s always rewarding to see your work installed on an aircraft. However, my latest achievement is being appointed as the Head of Airworthiness. It’s an EASA approved position that requires a rigorous interview process and a strong technical and regulatory background.
Being involved in audits, approvals and organisational setup from the very start of my career played a big part in preparing me for that responsibility.
Key Skills
What skills are most important in your role?
A strong technical and regulatory foundation is essential, but communication is just as important. As you progress into leadership roles, you work with many different stakeholders, including customers, regulators and internal teams across different locations.
Clear communication helps ensure expectations are aligned, risks are managed and projects are delivered efficiently, especially when teams are not co-located.
Industry Outlook
How do you see the aviation industry evolving in your field?
The industry is evolving rapidly, particularly in terms of safety, innovation and sustainability. Recent updates to Part 21 have introduced formal safety management systems, reinforcing the importance of safety from the earliest design stages.
We are also seeing increased use of new technologies and a growing focus on sustainable materials and practices, even down to cabin components. These developments will continue to shape how aircraft are designed and modified.
Women in Technical Aviation
What has your experience been like as a woman in this sector?
Aviation and engineering have traditionally been male dominated, so I’ve always been used to that environment. While gender based perceptions still exist to some extent, I believe the industry has made significant progress.
Diverse teams bring broader perspectives and better ideas, and at STS we see a strong and growing representation of women across technical roles.
Advice for Future Talent
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in aviation?
I would encourage anyone with a genuine passion for aviation to pursue it, regardless of gender. It’s a global, dynamic and rewarding industry that offers enormous opportunities for development.
There can be pressure and responsibility, but if you have interest, determination and the right skills, aviation offers an incredibly fulfilling career with endless possibilities.
Outside of Work
What keeps you motivated outside of the workplace?
Aviation is still a big part of my life outside work. I’m passionate about airshows and military aviation, and I’m involved with the Malta Airshow media team, interviewing pilots and supporting research.
Outside of aviation, I enjoy motorcycling, painting, running and going to the gym. Having creative and physical outlets helps keep me balanced and inspired.
Final Thoughts
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’ve been very fortunate in my career so far, and while I’ve worked hard, timing and opportunity also play a role. I feel grateful to work in an industry I’m passionate about, and I would encourage anyone with a similar interest to take the leap and explore what aviation has to offer.
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