Tanya Lerm never imagined herself in the aerospace sector. But nearly seven years after joining NewSpace Systems, she now leads it.

“Stepping into the role of CEO at NewSpace Systems has been one of the most significant moments of my career, both professionally and personally,” said Tanya, who holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Metallurgical Engineering from the North-West University (NWU). “It is a company I have grown with, a team I believe in, and an industry that never stops pushing boundaries.”

Tanya's rise follows a trajectory that began at the NWU, where she says her leadership mindset was first shaped. “It was not just about learning the technical fundamentals, though those were invaluable, but about how we were taught to think,” she said. “At the NWU, I learned how to unpack complexity, how to ask the right questions, and how to stay curious even when the answers were not obvious.”

Her systems-thinking approach and personal belief in leading authentically now guide her during a period of rapid expansion at the aerospace manufacturer.

“We are entering a phase of exciting but very real growth,” she said. “My focus as CEO is to lead that growth in a way that is smart, sustainable and aligned with who we are.”

This includes scaling production for increasing demand, expanding globally and investing in new technologies. “We are in the final stages of completing a major expansion, including a brand new 1,200 m2 cleanroom,” said Tanya. “But growth is not just about facilities, it is about people and systems.”

The company is also increasing investment in research and development. “Our next generation of intelligent subsystems includes capabilities like built-in diagnostics and early AI applications,” she said. “We are also exploring adjacent technologies that can expand our offering.”

She credits much of her resilience and leadership confidence to her early experiences navigating male-dominated technical environments. “The NWU gave me a foundation of confidence. It helped me believe I belonged in rooms that were often male-dominated and highly technical, and that I could lead not by mimicking others, but by leaning into my own way of doing things.”

To aspiring engineers and scientists, Tanya offered a clear message. “To young South Africans, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds: you are needed,” she said. “There is space for your ideas, your voice and your vision.”

As NewSpace Systems moves deeper into the global market, Tanya said her focus remains on building with intention. “From building our leadership pipeline, to growing and empowering our employees, to making sure our culture remains high-performing and collaborative, this is where long-term success is built.”

Her story, she said, is proof that leadership in aerospace is not defined by origin but by outlook. “Talent can come from anywhere. And leadership, especially in industries like ours, is ready for fresh energy, new perspectives and bold ambition.”

Tanya reflects on her journey from university halls to leading one of South Africa’s key aerospace companies.