Zara O'Farrell

I attribute my success to embracing the unexpected twists that have shaped my journey—from the manufacturing lines of the automotive and biomedical industries to the precision-driven world of aerospace. For me, success has been about evolution, both professionally and personally, and about understanding that quality is not just a process, but a culture. After earning my degree in Engineering Science at 26, my curiosity about how things worked guided me forward, though I could never have predicted how deeply I would come to love the intricacies of aerospace compliance and document control. Transitioning from automotive to aerospace was a leap—the standards are higher, the stakes greater, and the attention to detail relentless—but that challenge became my greatest motivator. Today, as an Aerospace Quality Manager, I focus on compliance with AS9100 Revision D standards, ensuring every process, document, and procedure meets the rigorous expectations that keep our skies safe. One of my proudest achievements was leading my team to zero findings in a civilian audit—a milestone that validated not just our systems, but the dedication and precision of our entire organization. I approach my work with a balance of analytical thinking and creativity, structure and spontaneity, believing that a career should reflect the full spectrum of who you are, not just a single dimension.

The best career advice I’ve ever received came from a mentor and close friend in the aerospace industry: “Always know the standard better than anyone in the room.” That guidance has become my professional mantra, driving me to continually learn, refine, and innovate. It reminds me that mastery of the fundamentals is the foundation for confidence, leadership, and the ability to make a meaningful impact in any role.

Know the Standard Better Than Anyone in the Room. Whether you’re in aerospace, healthcare, or tech, knowledge is your foundation. Don’t just follow procedures—understand why they exist. Mastering the standards gives you confidence, credibility, and control in every conversation. Stay Calm Under Audit Pressure. Audits can feel intimidating, but composure is key. Findings aren’t failures—they’re opportunities to strengthen your system. The goal isn’t immediate perfection; it’s continuous improvement with purpose. Keep Learning, Keep Adapting. Industries that shape our world, like aerospace, are always evolving. Certifications change, technologies advance, and expectations rise. Stay curious, pursue ongoing education, and never stop asking, “What’s next?” This mindset will keep you agile, informed, and ready for any challenge.

One of the biggest challenges in aerospace manufacturing today is balancing strict regulatory compliance with the pace of innovation. Many companies struggle to modernize their quality systems without losing sight of the standards that define our industry. Yet within that challenge lies a huge opportunity — to turn compliance into a competitive advantage. When you truly understand the standards, you can design smarter processes, reduce costs, and build stronger customer trust.

The values that guide me in both my work and personal life center on curiosity, continuous improvement, and service. Engineering taught me to see every process as improvable, every problem as solvable, and every standard as purposeful—lessons I carry into aerospace quality management and beyond. Lifelong learning is essential to me, whether mastering a new compliance standard or exploring innovative solutions to complex challenges. Beyond the hangars and inspection sheets, I’m deeply committed to community involvement. Recently, I joined the Elk Grove Village Fire Department’s Citizens Academy to gain firsthand insight into their operations and to understand how safety culture thrives at every level. For me, continuous improvement isn’t just a workplace principle—it’s a mindset that shapes how I serve and uplift the communities around me. Outside of aerospace, I’ve discovered another unexpected passion: acting and modeling. What began as a creative outlet in 2021 has evolved into opportunities across music videos and magazine features. This creative work allows me to express a different kind of precision—emotional, visual, and narrative—which complements the analytical discipline of my engineering world and reminds me that balance and versatility enrich every facet of life.