At ALG, we not only foster professional growth through international projects but also provide unique opportunities for personal and professional expansion for our employees. Our Erasmus Programme is a prime example of how global mobility can enrich both careers and lives. Through this programme, employees can request an exchange to any of our offices worldwide. This experience is much more than a change of location; it’s an invaluable opportunity to build an international network of contacts, enhance job satisfaction, and foster a sense of belonging. Additionally, it drives cultural and knowledge exchange while strengthening the personal bonds that unite our global community.
To understand the profound impact of this programme, we’re excited to share the story of Álvaro Estalella Silvela, one of our consultants who recently participated in the Erasmus Programme. Álvaro spent three months at our São Paulo office, where he not only expanded his professional skills but also gained unique insights into a new culture and market.
A new horizon: exploring airport master plans and infrastructure due diligence
During his time in São Paulo, Álvaro had the unique opportunity to work on two pivotal projects that significantly enhanced his professional growth. First, he contributed to the development of Viracopos airport master plan, a comprehensive blueprint to guide the long-term development of one of Brazil’s future key aviation hubs, offering Álvaro an immense learning potential.
The second project involved conducting Macaé airport infrastructure investment due diligence for BNDES, analyzing Zurich Airports Brazil’s investments. In this project, Álvaro collaborated with the local team to analyze the financial, operational, and regulatory aspects of the CAPEX investment, gaining valuable insights into a dynamic market environment.
A chance to pioneer business development
Beyond project work, Álvaro’s time in São Paulo allowed him to take on a proactive role in business development. With his expertise in Air Traffic Management (ATM) and space—areas not yet fully developed in the Brazilian office—he worked closely with the local leadership team to identify new opportunities for growth. Álvaro’s contributions helped lay the foundation for potential client engagements and demonstrated how cross-office collaboration can accelerate innovation and market entry.
Álvaro also attended DECEA’s Performance ATM seminar in October 2024, held in São Paulo. This event explored innovative solutions to improve ATM efficiency and operational performance. Álvaro had the chance to connect with industry experts from the FAA, Singapore’s CAAS, Eurocontrol, DECEA, and Brazil’s airports and airlines. Engaging with these stakeholders provided him with a broader perspective on global and local ATM challenges and opportunities.
Personal and professional growth: a holistic experience
Reflecting on his journey, Álvaro shared that the exchange was more than just a professional development endeavor; it was a profound cultural immersion that broadened his worldview. “I believe that true innovation thrives through cross-border collaboration and the exchange of expertise, which is the reason I applied for ALG’s exchange programme. Immersing myself in Brazil—its culture, history, and untapped potential—has reshaped my perspective in ways that will leave a lasting impression. Today, my vision feels significantly more global, enriched by this experience,” Álvaro explained.
His involvement in the Viracopos airport master plan and the Macaé airport technical due diligence marked significant milestones in his career. For the latter project, he even conducted field monitoring of infrastructure investments being made to the airport’s runway and yard.
Building connections across continents
The exchange programme also strengthened Álvaro’s ability to adapt to new cultural and professional environments. “Working with the team in São Paulo taught me the importance of local context in solving global challenges”, he noted. Beyond professional development, the programme allowed Álvaro to forge lasting personal and professional connections with colleagues across continents, reinforcing ALG’s commitment to building a unified, global team.
Furthermore, Álvaro experienced the Brazilian culture at first hand and says that the Brazilian way of life has left a positive impression on him, but above all he takes home the great impression that the Brazilian people have made on him, welcoming him warmly from the start. "Even though my Portuguese was weak in the first few weeks, I received a great welcome from everyone I met in São Paulo and I am proud to take home an improved Portuguese and part of all the friends I have made here in Brazil”.
Driving innovation through exchange
The success of Álvaro’s journey underscores the immense value of ALG’s Erasmus Programme in driving innovation and growth. By enabling consultants to work in diverse markets and tackle new challenges, we enhance their professional development while strengthening our ability to deliver tailored solutions to clients worldwide.
We’re excited to see how the knowledge and skills Álvaro has gained will contribute to both our Madrid and São Paulo offices. His journey exemplifies how collaboration and mobility can shape the future of our industry.
