Our new series on 'women in aviation', highlights the achievements of women excelling in the industry and showcases their work environments. Our first story features Maximiliane Pissinger, a trailblazer in air freight security with seven years of experience and five years at Swissport Stuttgart. Maximiliane's journey exemplifies passion, dedication, and breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. 

Maximiliane’s path to Swissport began somewhat unexpectedly. "I didn't explicitly apply to join Swissport," she recalls. "I was already part of the team when my previous company was acquired by Swissport." This transition opened new doors for Maximiliane, allowing her to expand her expertise in air freight security. In February 2023, she earned an additional qualification as Head of Security (Luftfrachtsicherheitsbeauftragte), a role that underscores her dedication and skill. 

Swissport's commitment to training and mentorship has been pivotal in Maximiliane’s career. "Swissport regularly provides training and ensures that experienced mentors are available to answer all my questions regarding my new responsibilities," she says. This support has been crucial, particularly in a sector where women are often unrepresented. 

In her role, Maximiliane engages in tasks traditionally seen as male-dominated. "At Swissport, women are included in tasks such as driving forklifts and screening freight boxes to prevent prohibited materials from being transported by air," she explains. 

Maximiliane encourages women to stand firm in their ambitions. "To thrive in this sector, it's important to stand up for yourself, ask for help when needed, and keep a clear head in stressful situations," she advises. She emphasizes that having thick skin can be beneficial but is not the only key to success. 

Reflecting on her experiences, Maximiliane shares that proving women's capabilities in traditionally male roles remains a challenge. "One of the main challenges is demonstrating that women can handle tasks typically reserved for men, like operating heavy machinery and performing intensive security checks," she notes. She therefore advocates for more women in leadership positions within airfreight security. "We need female leaders who understand the unique challenges we face and who can empathize with our experiences," she says. She believes that more women in leadership roles will help create a more inclusive and supportive industry. 

Maximiliane Pissinger’s story exemplifies overcoming obstacles in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her journey at Swissport highlights the importance of support, mentorship, and determination in achieving professional success.