Our company builds bridges for talent to work together.

Conscious Aerospace is a Tier 1 systems integrator company with a significant heritage having roots and connections in pioneering aviation for 100 years.

We are building an outstanding and experienced team dedicated to changing aviation for the better of the planet and its inhabitants backed by strong financial investment parties.

 

OUR MISSION

In five years, we will have the first aircraft flying and engaged with new aircraft build concepts together with other aircraft manufacturers. We seek to realize that ambition by building a Dutch ecosystem outpacing the market with a credible green solution certified by 2028.

 
 

We are entering the next phase of pioneering aviation in the Netherlands.

To this end, we collaborate with industrial and institutional organizations that have evolved in the aviation journey of the Netherlands.

Working with great talent who have been part of the more recent journey or want to develop themselves to make a difference.

Dream, Dare, Do, Dutch

Watch the animation below and find out where we are going.

Meet The Team

At Conscious Aerospace, we take pride in being a distinctly Dutch company with a vibrant and diverse team. Represented by numerous nationalities, our team embodies a rich mosaic of backgrounds and perspectives. We believe that embracing this diversity not only enhances our creativity and collaboration but also strengthens our collective capability.

Each member of our team brings their unique expertise and vision, contributing to an environment where innovation thrives. Together, we are on a mission to disrupt sustainable aviation in the Netherlands, setting new standards and pioneering advancements that align with our commitment to sustainability and excellence.

Join us as we continue to push the boundaries and chart a course towards a greener, more sustainable future in aviation. At Conscious Aerospace, we're not just building a team; we're cultivating a community dedicated to making a significant impact.

MEET THE CEO

Erik Geertsema has 31 years track record in executive leadership positions at Fokker, GKN Aerospace and Panta Holdings. Erik has gained a wealth of experience by leading and growing aftermarket aerospace businesses serving airlines and OEM’s both autonomously as well as through M&A.

 

  • Erik is strategically and customer focus minded and developed and commercialized aftermarket support business models for legacy aircraft fleets and other aircraft programs with airlines, OEM’s and major suppliers. Erik created and negotiated MRO license agreements with Bombardier, ATR, Honeywell, Liebherr and Parker, has driven mergers and acquisitions and many other transactions.

    Erik held executive leadership positions in Strategy, Sales & BD, Operations, Finance and Project/ Program Management and has acted as Accountable Manager for EASA & FAA Part 145 repair stations as well as served as Board Member for US and Singapore based entities.

    Next to the business experience Erik brings a strong network in the Aerospace ecosystem through Board positions of the Independent Aircraft Modifier Alliance (since 2020) and previously of the Development Center for Maintenance of Composites (2016 - 2021).

    After his military duty, serving as an officer, Erik started his professional career at the Fokker Aircraft company as a management trainee a.o. working on the Fokker 100 aircraft production line.

    Erik holds a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.

MEET THE FOUNDER

“I am passionate at helping bring innovation and businesses to their next level in aviation. Conscious Aerospace provides the springboard to reposition the Dutch aviation capability. The Netherlands has a history of pioneering aviation with Anthony Fokker over 100 years ago. Conscious Aerospace will pioneer the regional market for the next 100 years.”

— Michel van Ierland | Founder & Owner Unified International and Conscious Aerospace

 

  • 26 years experience in aviation of which 7 years as an entrepreneur active in creating truly sustainable value for its partners and clients. Acting Managing Partner of the Unified International team.

    Founded Unified International 7 years ago, the #1 Hands On Boutique Consultancy for aerospace and defense.

    Founder of Conscious Aerospace in 2022.

    Extensively worked in both the Development of new Aircraft and Aircraft systems in cooperation with the Original Equipment Aircraft industry around the world.

    Working closely with governments and technology institutes to shape new high-tech transitions.

    Entrepreneurial with a clear market and technology vision in the creation of new business. A team builder for business creation, positioning, and diversification.

We are honoured to have such a wealth of experience to provide independent advice to our team to realise our ambitions in our journey.

ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS

Peter Hartman

Ex-President and Chief Executive Officer of the Board of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Vice Chairman of the Supervisory Board Air France KLM S.A.

“During my 45 year journey in aviation we have witnessed so many challenges and technology advancements, but the challenge the industry now faces is the most significant. I am delighted be contributing to the initiative of Conscious Aerospace to accelerate the implementation of zero emissions in significant areas of the aviation market.”

Hans Büthker

CEO Chief Executive Officer, Neways Electronics Intl NV and ex CEO GKN Aerospace.

“The Netherlands has a proud history in pioneering aviation, it is a nation with significant innovation impact across many mobility industries with a solid industrial base. I truly believe leveraging these through its strong Eco System Conscious Aerospace can make a difference for the new phase in aviation and I am proud to play a small part in bringing these capabilities together in a sustainable manner.”