Bridging the Gap: Space Policy towards Greening of the Space Sector

Those Space People

In today's episode, we are "Bridging the Gap" with Vera Pinto - Policy Coordinator at the European Commission (Directorate General for Defense Industry and Space). The discussion covers Vera's diverse background in international relations, political science, and space policy, and her current role focusing on equality, diversity, inclusion, and the sustainability of the space sector. Vera shares insights into the skills and backgrounds needed in the aerospace industry, the importance of greening space activities, and the development of sustainable methodologies for the space sector in collaboration with industry stakeholders. The episode also explores the potential of AI in enhancing environmental sustainability and processing vast quantities of Earth observation data, and discusses the various career paths and opportunities within the European Commission for those interested in the space sector.

This episode is part of the "Bridging the Gap" series brought to you by Women in Aerospace Europe (WIA-Europe) and Those Space People, and ties into the theme of the WIA-Europe Symposium 2024.
"Bridging the Gap" is a special series that spotlights inspirational figures from the aerospace industry talk about the current skills gap, and provides guidance on developing skills to future proof your career. So if you're looking to enter the aerospace industry or advancing into leadership roles, then this series is tailor made for you.

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Bridging the Gap Series
• (00:38) - Spotlight on Vera Pinto: A Diverse Career in Space Policy
• (01:06) - The Multifaceted Role of a Policy and Equality Coordinator
• (02:12) - Skills and Backgrounds Needed in the European Commission
• (03:31) - Sustainability in the Space Sector: Challenges and Methodologies
• (09:41) - The Future of Green Roles in the Space Industry
• (14:41) - AI's Role in Enhancing Space Sustainability
• (20:55) - Diverse Career Paths at the European Commission
• (27:41) - Advice for Aspiring Space Industry Professionals
• (32:21) - Closing Thoughts and Personal Anecdotes