Women in Tech: At the forefront of innovation - Key takeaways from Andrea Wu, Urban-Air Port

We are delighted to launch our new Women in Tech series, where we will hear interesting stories from inspirational people leading the charge at the forefront of innovation.

In episode 7, we hear from Andrea Wu, CEO of Urban-Air Port, the company behind the world’s first vertiport designed for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles.

Interviewed by James Baillieu, Corporate Partner in our London office, Andrea offers insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of advanced air mobility and the vital role ground, air, and digital infrastructure play in this space.

Listen to the podcast here and read the key takeaways below. These themes explore the intersection of innovation, sustainability, inclusivity, and strategic adaptability within the rapidly evolving field of advanced urban mobility.

• Advancing sustainable urban mobility: Urban Airport's mission is to promote greener transportation through the development of eVTOL platforms. This includes creating infrastructure that is both energy-efficient and accessible, aiming to ensure advanced air mobility is not just for the wealthy but a viable option for a broad range of city residents.
• Infrastructure is key for future of eVTOLs: While manufacturers (OEMs) focus on certifying eVTOL vehicles, the supporting infrastructure is often overlooked. Urban Airport is working to bridge this gap by developing vertiports, which are essential for eVTOL operation in cities. This infrastructure needs to be well-integrated, tested, and supported by local governments.
• Funding challenges in emerging sectors: Building the infrastructure for advanced air mobility requires significant funding. However, Andrea highlights that the industry has struggled to secure necessary investment, particularly in a risk-averse post-COVID-19 environment. Long-term support from both private and public sectors is essential for sustained growth.
• Opportunities for women in new industries: The nascent field of advanced air mobility offers women and other underrepresented groups a chance to establish themselves. Although the field, like others in tech and engineering, is male dominated, its early stage creates a unique opportunity for women to carve out roles and drive the industry forward.
• Resilience and flexibility in leadership: Andrea advises entrepreneurs to stay adaptable, embrace flexibility, and actively create opportunities instead of waiting for them. She emphasises the importance of staying resilient, experimenting with new approaches, and being open to changes in strategy, which has been critical to Urban Airport’s progress.