Meet Lawane Glover, a Payroll Manager for Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, based in Arlington, Virginia.

She recently celebrated 16 years with the company in February 2026, and has been a steady force behind the scenes, ensuring that one of the most important parts of any organization runs smoothly: taking care of its people.

In her role, Lawane processes payroll for approximately 300 employees every two weeks, a responsibility that requires precision, reliability, and a keen eye for detail.

“My analytical mindset and strong attention to detail help ensure accuracy and consistency in every payroll cycle,” she said.

Before joining Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Lawane worked in a variety of sectors, including the federal government, law, education, telecommunications, medical, and nonprofit organizations. That breadth of experience prepared her to manage the complexities of payroll in a dynamic aerospace and defense environment.

Interestingly, aviation wasn’t originally part of Lawane’s career plan. When she saw an open payroll position at Airbus, she decided to explore a new industry – and it proved to be the start of a rewarding 16-year journey.

Over the years, one of Lawane’s favorite aspects of the role has been working on system implementations and upgrades that improve efficiency in payroll processing.

“These projects not only streamline operations but also help ensure employees are supported with modern, reliable systems,” she said.

Among Lawane’s proudest professional accomplishments was helping stand up and process payroll for the Merritt Island facility in Florida.

“Being part of building that capability from the ground up was both challenging and rewarding,” she said.

Throughout her career, one lesson has remained constant: always deliver on time.

“In payroll, reliability matters, and her commitment to meeting deadlines has helped maintain trust across the organization,” she said.

Outside of work, Lawane enjoys volunteering with young children. It’s a passion that reflects the same dedication and care she brings to her work each day.

Meet Keith Kenne, Director of Government Contracts. Based in Columbus, Mississippi, home of the Lakota UH-72 military helicopter, Keith has worked at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense since October 17, 2020.

In his role, Keith oversees a multi-billion-dollar portfolio supporting contracts for military helicopter and uncrewed aircraft programs, including the U.S. Army Lakota Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) Contract, Production Contract, USMC OTA Logistics Connector (MQ-72C), and various Flexrotor UAS contracts.

Before joining Airbus, Keith served as a Director of Contracts at Airbus Helicopters, Inc. (AHI) for eight years. Prior to that, he retired from the United States Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel after more than two decades of active- duty service.

Keith’s military career began as a Nuclear Missile Launch Officer for the Minuteman III weapon system. Recognizing the importance of transferable expertise, Keith became interested in contracts and acquisitions, spending most of his career developing expertise in government contracting, command, and leadership roles, experience that transitioned seamlessly into a private sector.

When asked what advice he would give someone starting out in the field, Keith emphasized ownership and visibility.

“Become an expert in your discipline and recognize that much of career progression is tied to visibility,” he said. “Lead from the front. Be an active contributor producing results that advance the company and support leadership objectives. Don’t isolate yourself; take initiatives or lead.”

Outside of work, Keith is deeply committed to his faith. He participates in foreign missions’ trips to Kenya to help build churches and Christian schools, and conducts weekly Bible studies at the local county jail in Mississippi.

As a younger man, he even appeared on the cover of a romance novel, a fun fact many colleagues may not know.

A key life-lesson Keith learned throughout his career is rooted in faith.

“All knowledge and wisdom come from God,” he shared. “If you lack wisdom, ask God, who gives generously. Any successes I’ve achieved or helped the company accomplish are credited to Him. When you’re challenged with something beyond your knowledge or experience, go to the source of all wisdom.”

As he looks ahead to retirement in July 2026, Keith reflects in a career shaped by service, leadership, faith, and purpose, both professionally and personally.

Melbourne, FL (February 3, 2026) – This school year, Viera Middle kicked off its student’s learning with an innovative STEM curriculum donated by Airbus U.S. Space & Defense.

Under the guidance of Aerospace Exploration and Science Research teacher Lori Reinhardt, students will engage in a unique, hands-on learning experience that mirrors a professional nine-to-five workday.

The We Build It Better Program, an 18-week educational journey, will immerse middle school students in advanced manufacturing and STEM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) disciplines, opening their eyes to a wide range of tech career opportunities.

“This course prepares students for their future careers in the STEM field, such as jobs in aviation, automotive, electrical, and manufacturing,” said Reinhardt. “The program is very robust and an amazing opportunity for students to work with technologies they might not normally be exposed to in the classroom.”

Airbus has generously provided Brevard Public Schools with the We Build It Better kits and curriculum for the 2025-2026 academic year.

“At Airbus U.S., we believe that cultivating a strong, skilled workforce starts with early education. By engaging students with hands-on learning experiences in a program like We Build It Better, we are helping build a knowledgeable and innovative team for our operations across the U.S. and worldwide,” said Robert Geckle, Chairman and CEO of Airbus U.S. Space and Defense.

Developed through a partnership between Airbus, Amazon, Flight Works Alabama, and Snap-on Tools, the We Build It Better Program aims to inspire students at a pivotal age, broadening their career horizons.

The program equips educators with a comprehensive curriculum and support materials, including seven innovation kits filled with high-end tools and equipment. Over 18 weeks, students will learn essential technical and soft skills, such as measurement, product design, electrical wiring, fiber optics, and coding, through extensive hands-on activities. The curriculum meets federal, state, and local STEM standards and is eligible for various funding sources.

“I believe that We Build It Better will have a tremendous impact on the students and allow them to start to think freely again, challenge their thoughts and ideas, and motivate them in the classroom,” said Reinhardt.

About Airbus U.S. Space & Defense

Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, a trusted U.S. government partner, delivers industry-leading solutions for satellite, geospatial intelligence, cybersecurity, secure communications, space exploration, military helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, and fixed-wing aircraft. We offer state-of-the-art technologies, extensive research and development, and subject matter expertise to provide the U.S. Department of Defense, National Security Agencies, and Space-focused partners with optimal solutions for their critical missions.

Meet Chris Rose, a Sr. Executive Affairs Manager at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, who plays an integral role ensuring cross-coordination across the company and supporting leadership.

In her position, Chris partners with executives across the company to plan and coordinate board and committee meetings.

Chris has been with Airbus U.S. Space & Defense for 18 years, bringing deep experience and continuity to the role.

“A lot of what I do happens behind the scenes making sure everything is prepared, organized, and ready so our leadership can focus on moving the business forward,” she said.

A piece of advice Chris would give to someone starting their career is to be agile and have a willingness to learn.

“I’d tell them to remain in a rigid state of flexibility,” she said. “In this field, structure, discipline, and organization are essential, but so is the ability to pivot quickly when priorities shift – and they always do.”

One of Chris’ favorite parts of working at Airbus is the collaborative culture and shared sense of mission across teams.

“There’s a strong sense of teamwork here,” she said. “Everyone understands the mission and works together to support it, which makes work meaningful.”

Outside of work, Chris values time spent recharging with people and activities that matter most to her

“Spending time with my family, living my faith and making space for creativity and fun helps me stay balanced,” she said. “That balance is important to bringing my best self to work.”

Meet Harolyn Smith, a Material Specialist supporting the Component Shop in Mobile, Ala. In her role, Harolyn tracks parts status reports, shipments, and movements of needed parts.

Harolyn has worked at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense for 19 years. Before joining the company, she served as a material clerk and purchasing agent at ST Aerospace and Engineering.

A love of airplanes drew Harolyn to the aviation industry and continues to fuel her passion.

“My love and interest of airplanes drew me to this field,” Harolyn said. “I started by learning how to identify parts, read drawings and illustrated parts catalogs. Then I began purchasing them.”

Over the years, Harolyn has enjoyed being part of the evolving space and defense industry.

“I love the people and innovative ideas that help keep us moving forward as things continue to evolve.”

Harolyn finds motivation in the women she works alongside and sees growth in the industry.

“I am motivated to keep showing up and giving a 110% when I see these women,” she said. “The women who work in manufacturing and aviation are the reason I never give up.”

A piece of advice Harolyn would give to anyone starting their career is to not be afraid of saying yes.

“Don’t be afraid to take on a new project or task,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Never be complacent and always try to find ways to improve. Be teachable and trainable, even if you have a license or degree in a specific field.”

Harolyn’s favorite memory from Airbus U.S. was volunteering with Habitat for Humanity.

“Volunteering with the company for ‘A Day for Caring’ with Habitat for Humanity was incredible,” she said. “The event was sponsored by United Way, and it allowed us to help build homes for those in need.”

Outside work, Harolyn enjoys expressing her voice both literally and figuratively.

“Outside of work I am a church choir director as well as the director of the women’s ministry,” she said. “I love singing and listening to music, especially watching the sunrise at the beach.”

WASHINGTON (December 11, 2025) – Airbus U.S. Space and Defense announced the UH-72 Lakota fleet at Fort Rucker surpassed one million flight hours supporting the Initial Entry Rotary Wing (IERW) training program for new Army aviators.

“Our aircraft continues to prove its value to the U.S. Army and achieving this milestone reinforces why the Army chose the Lakota – superior safety, training versatility, highest availability across the fleet and lowest cost to maintain,” said Didier Cormary, Vice President and Head of Military Helicopter and Uncrewed Systems for Airbus U.S Space and Defense. “Our success is a testament to the many U.S. military veterans who built the helicopter and take pride in supporting the aviators who serve our nation at home and abroad.”

Lakota became the primary training aircraft in 2015 at Fort Rucker when the Army decided to move from the single-engine trainer to a modern, twin-engine aircraft that more closely resembles the flight characteristics of an operational aircraft.

Airbus’ partnership with the Army has produced more than 10,000 IERW graduates while also providing the U.S. National Guard with a versatile rotary-wing capability suitable for counter- narcotic, border security, and disaster response missions. Currently, there are 225 Lakota aircraft assigned to at Fort Rucker in support of IERW training.

The Army’s $2.2B investment in the Lakota fleet has yielded significant safety achievements.

According to a FY24 U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center five-year Army Aviation Class A Mishap Review, the UH-72 has the best safety record per 100,000 flight hours across the Army fleet.

Currently, the Army, Navy, and Army National Guard units use Lakota helicopters to perform essential training and real-world missions year-round across 49 U.S. states and territories.

About Airbus U.S. Space & Defense

Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, a trusted U.S. government partner, delivers industry-leading solutions for satellite, geospatial intelligence, cybersecurity, secure communications, space exploration, military helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, and fixed-wing aircraft. We offer state-of-the-art technologies, extensive research and development, and subject matter expertise to provide the U.S. Department of Defense, National Security Agencies, and Space-focused partners with optimal solutions for their critical missions.

Meet Kelsey Schooler, a Procurement Specialist supporting the Airbus U.S. Space & Defense Supply Chain team.

Kelsey brings a strong background in defense operations and administrative coordination and has been at the company for nearly eight months.

In her current role Kelsey plays an important part in ensuring purchasing, approvals, and invoices run smoothly across departments.

“I assist with processing purchase requisitions,” she said. “I also route documentation for administrative approvals and partner with Accounts Payable on invoice processing.”

Kelsey finds pride and purpose in knowing her work is making an impact.

“I’m proud to support processes that keep our operations running smoothly,” she said. “I enjoy being behind the scenes to make sure our products are mission ready.”

Before Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Kelsey worked Assistant to the Director of Operations at Patriort3, Inc., which is a Military Defense Company.

“I enjoy being part of a team that works together to support the missions behind every program.”

Outside of work, Kelsey enjoys being detailed oriented in a different way.

“When I’m outside of work, I enjoy event planning and design.”

Meet Cody Stanley, a team lead supporting the MRO Component Shop in Mobile, Ala., who plays a key role overseeing the repair and overhaul of landing gear systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and avionics.

Cody has worked at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense for ten years and started his journey as an avionics intern before working his way up into a leadership position.

Before joining Airbus, Cody served as a Submariner in the U.S. Navy.

“I spent time in ship rigging,” he said. “I then moved around to a few other different jobs and industries. Then, while working as an HVAC installer, I started going to school for my A&P certificate.”

An A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certificate, issued by the FAA, certifies a mechanic to inspect, repair, and maintain both the airframe (structure) and powerplant (engine) of an aircraft.

Cody finds drive in his work by knowing he is making an impact.

“The biggest reward for me is knowing my work, in some small way, is contributing to the mission of the U.S. Coast Guard.”

He finds motivation in the tight-knit team around him.

“In a small group, everyone wears many hats in order to achieve success,” he said. “Through my peers, I see all the ways we work together, grow together, and achieve victories together.”

A piece of advice Cody would give to anyone starting their career is to never quit learning.

“The minute you think you know it all, you’ve quit learning,” he said. “Always be accepting of the views and experiences of others, and don’t let the fear of failure be the enemy of your professional growth.”

Outside the shop, Cody likes to stay busy with varies activities.

“I try to get out as often as I can,” he said. “I go on motorcycles rides, hiking, scuba diving, camping, and just enjoying nature.”

Meet Ana Brito, a Sr. Financial System Manager supporting our Financial and Controlling team. Prior to joining the company, Ana worked fifteen years as a SAP Consultant for several different industries throughout North and South America.

Ana has worked at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense for five years, and experienced many milestones at the company.

“Being a part of the Arrow150 satellite completion was incredible,” she said. “I not only worked on the program but got to attend the VIP launch for our final satellites.”

Ana often finds inspiration simply by looking outside her office.

“Working so close to Kennedy Space Center is incredible,” she said. “There are countless opportunities to see launches from the office. It is amazing to see what humans can achieve with passion and purpose.”

Ana’s advice for future finance professionals is to always lead with integrity.

“Do the right thing even when no one is watching,” she said. “Stay true to who you are, and the right opportunities will find you.”

Five years in, Ana is still proud to call Airbus U.S. Space & Defense home and be part of an incredible team.

“This company is achieving things that have never been done before,” she said. “The people I work with help to motivate me every day.”

An important lesson Ana learned early in her career is the value of embracing change.

“Change is the only constant,” she said. “Fear it and you stall; embrace it and you will grow. I’ve learned to see change not as an ending but as a new opportunity.”

Being close to the ocean is something Ana considers essential to her happiness.

“I am from the Caribbean, so being close to the beach is something I enjoy,” she said. “Even if I don’t go that often.”

Meet Ye Naung Win, an Audit and Quality Improvement Manager supporting our MRO facility. In this role, Ye Naung leads and executes internal audits for the facility, as well as product safety.

Ye Naung has worked at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense for one year. Prior to joining the company, he worked for Airbus commercial and JetBlue.

Ye Naung is passionate about his career and the aviation industry.

“I was a Mechanical engineer, but I made the bold decision to pursue what I really wanted,” he said. “Now I go to work because I want to — not because I need too. Working on aircraft is the best thing in my life.”

Ye Naung finds inspiration in his career just by looking around his desk.

“My Airplane model on my desk, it’s not just a model plane it’s my silent supporter,” he said. “Sometimes when I have a hard day, I just look at my model plane, and it reminds me about how I started, what my goals are, and how grateful I am for the leaders who have supported me to this point.”

One of Ye Naung’s proudest moments was earning his globally-recognized AS9100 quality management certification.

“I recently achieved a new milestone in my auditing career,” he said. “I was able to earn both the AS9100/9110 certification at the same time, strengthening the organization compliance and quality management performance. This was very challenging, but I had my team there to support me.”

A piece of advice that Ye Naung would give to anyone looking for a career in aviation is to never give up and dream big.

“Arriving in the U.S. with only a suitcase and big dreams, I started at Dunkin Donuts as a coffee maker,” he said. “Now I am at Airbus – one of the biggest aerospace and defense organizations. Just keep climbing and whenever you fail, remember to finish what you started. Success is not about the destination; it’s about not giving up.”

Outside of work, Ye Naung is a very passionate cook.

“I like to cook, and enjoy making food for other people,” he said. “I am so happy to see when they enjoy the food I make.”