Aerospace engineers design and develop ships for both in and out of Earth’s atmosphere. A bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering is required, and experience can be gained through internships and extracurricular activities. Two main industries employ aerospace engineers: government agencies and manufacturing.
To become an aerospace engineer, a combination of education and experience is required. An aerospace engineer is responsible for designing and developing ships for both in and out of Earth’s atmosphere. Many of the developments and discoveries made by aerospace engineers have improved technology, materials and motor vehicles.
There are two main branches of aerospace engineering: aeronautics and astronautics. Both fields are focused on flight, mechanics and materials science. Aeronautics is focused on flying within the Earth’s atmosphere. This includes airplanes, helicopters, gliders and related devices. Astronautics is focused on flight outside the Earth’s atmosphere. Developments here have improved satellites, space stations and rockets.
To become an aerospace engineer, a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering is a minimum requirement. This type of degree can be earned at an accredited university that offers an aerospace program. The choice of school is critical to further study opportunities and career options.
When selecting a university, look for one that offers advanced degrees in aerospace engineering. The aerospace program may be operated by the engineering college’s mechanical or aerospace departments. A school that is capable of offering master’s and doctoral programs has the breadth and depth of staff experience to provide a complete program. These schools are more likely to have important connections with prototype projects and opportunities to work with industry leaders.
The experience needed to become an aerospace engineer can be gained in a wide variety of positions. The most important skills for this field are attention to detail, mental focus, and teamwork. All of these skills can be developed by working on manufacturing, retail, or team projects.
All engineering degree programs have opportunities for internships and summer jobs in the industry. Competition for these positions is very high, and course grades are often the deciding factor. Additional experience can be gained by participating in science projects and science-related extracurricular activities.
Two main industries employ aerospace engineers: government agencies and manufacturing. Positions in government space agencies are relatively difficult to obtain, due to the high retention rate. These positions offer a lot of stability and the ability to participate in a prestigious program.
Manufacturing positions include airplane design, electric gliders, cars and even underwater devices. The breadth of material studied in an aerospace program can be applied to a wide range of devices and environments. Adopt a broad perspective when looking for a position to ensure you don’t miss out on any potential opportunities.
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