Breaking Barriers in Aerospace: The Story of Zaidatul Aini Mohd Zainuddin, NDT Level 3 Manager at Sime UMW Aerospace

Her journey into aerospace was sparked early. Growing up with a father who worked in aviation, she was constantly exposed to the world of aircraft and engineering. “My father always wanted to have a legacy in the aviation industry,” she shares. “His passion became mine—and that’s what inspired me to pursue a career in aerospace, specifically in NDT and aircraft maintenance.”

But passion alone wasn't enough. Navigating a field where women are often the minority, Zaidatul faced several challenges that could easily have derailed a less determined individual. Instead, she met them head-on. “I focused on building strong professional relationships and treating all my colleagues with respect,” she says. “I always cultivate a positive attitude and ask for help when needed. That builds resilience and assertiveness.”

To continue furthering her career, she focused on demonstrating her capabilities. By consistently engaging with her superiors and seeking feedback, she identified areas for improvement and honed her skills. “Career advancement starts with showing that you're committed to growth,” she adds.

Being the “go-to expert” in her field was also no accident. Her credibility is built on a solid foundation of continuous learning, hands-on experience and strong networks. Zaidatul actively attends annual NDT conferences to stay current on technical, regulatory, and managerial developments in the aerospace industry. She also collaborates closely with other technical professionals to exchange knowledge and drive professional growth.

One of her proudest recent achievements was leading her team to successfully maintain NADCAP NDT accreditation with no major findings—an accomplishment made possible by teamwork, trust, and leadership. “You can’t do it alone,” she reflects. “It requires the full commitment of the team.”

To thrive in aerospace and engineering, Zaidatul believes in taking bold, intentional steps—seeking mentorship, enhancing leadership skills, speaking up in meetings, and staying ahead of industry trends. “I regularly update myself through courses, webinars, and literature. It’s important to remain a knowledgeable resource in your field,” she emphasizes.

Her career has been shaped by strong mentors, especially her father and a former NDT Level 3 supervisor at Parker Aerospace who saw potential in her. “He believed I could become what I am today,” she recalls. “The most important lesson I learned from them is to believe in yourself—even when challenges try to convince you otherwise. You’re born to be different, and that’s your strength.”

Now, Zaidatul is committed to leaving behind a legacy that celebrates diversity, challenges outdated norms and opens doors for women to lead in technical and leadership roles. “I want to be part of creating environments that advocate for equal opportunities,” she says with pride.

Her advice for aspiring aerospace professionals? “It’s a tough industry to break into, but not impossible. Get the right education and training. Many universities now offer programs that weren’t available during my time. Seek internships and hands-on experience in specialized areas like NDT—even if you already have an engineering degree.”

And to young professionals stepping into this exciting but challenging space, she leaves this message: “Cultivate a passion for continuous learning—this field evolves fast. Champion diversity and inclusion. Your journey is uniquely yours. Stay curious, stay proactive, and stay committed to making an impact.”