HOW YOU SWAN #1 - Meet Lucia TENG !

At SWAN, we believe that behind every mission, innovation, or policy shift in the space sector, there are people — and stories — that deserve to be seen and celebrated.

That’s why we’re thrilled to launch HOW YOU SWAN: a new blog series dedicated to spotlighting the incredible individuals in our network. Through this series, we’ll share journeys, insights, and advice from SWAN members working across all parts of the space industry — from engineering and research to policy and leadership.

Today, we kick things off with a bold, brilliant woman who’s helping shape the future of space in France.

🚀 Lucia Teng

In a few words, who is Lucia?

Lucia is at the heart of France’s defense space strategy. As deputy head of the Space Office of the Defence Industry Directorate at the French defense procurement agency (DGA), she supports the national industry on everything from supply consolidation to European programs. Her role sits at the crossroads of defense, industrial policy, and the space sector — and she thrives in this strategic, fast-paced environment.

🌍 If you had $1 million to make the space sector more inclusive and equitable, what would you do?

“I’d fund a fully-paid, international fellowship for underrepresented students to work in space agencies or companies — including mentorship, travel, and real missions. Access changes everything when you’re seen, supported, and given the chance to contribute.”

Lucia’s vision is clear: opening doors changes lives. This kind of hands-on, supported experience can create real, lasting impact for young talent — and help build a space ecosystem that’s not just diverse in numbers, but in opportunity.

✨ What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a fellow colleague?

“Stay curious, ask questions, and trust that you bring value — even if others have more experience.”

For Lucia, leadership isn’t about knowing everything from day one. It’s about learning continuously, asking boldly, and believing that your perspective matters.

💬 Her story as a woman in a male-dominated field:

“Being young and a woman in such a male-dominated environment can be challenging. But strong support from mentors — and diverse experiences like working at the Guiana Space Centre, researching solar eruptions in Austria, or interning in space policy in Washington — have helped me build confidence and find my voice in the field.”

Lucia’s path is proof that international experience, mentorship, and visibility can be game changers — not just for individual careers, but for changing what leadership looks like in space.

We’re proud to feature Lucia as our very first HOW YOU SWAN spotlight — and we can’t wait to share more stories like hers.

📢 Want to be featured too? Just fill out this short form — and let’s show the world how you SWAN.

Together, we rise.