If you have a passion for aircraft and have strong math and physics skills, then you may be a good fit for a career as an aircraft engineer.Aeronautical engineers design aircraft and other systems.One of the most challenging fields of engineering requires special academic qualifications and training.If you get the right education and experience, you will be able to establish your career in the field.
Step 1: In high school, develop sound math and science skills.
Advanced science and math skills are required for aircraft engineering.Get a head-start on developing the skills you will need by taking classes in chemistry, physics, math, and astronomy in high school.You can earn high marks if you put your best effort into these classes.A high grade point average will help you get into a good engineering program.Join an astronomy or computer programming club, participate in a science or engineering competition, or both.
Step 2: Improve your analytical skills.
Critical thinking and analytical skills are important for a career in aerospace engineering.Concrete or intuitive methods can be used to solve complex problems.Mental games such as crossword puzzles, chess, and other strategy games will help you develop your skills.
Step 3: Get a degree in engineering.
When acceptance letters arrive, you should apply to several colleges and universities.Most employers don't recognize degrees from universities that are not ABET accredited, so make sure you apply to a university that is.
Step 4: Writing and business classes can be taken.
Strong writing skills are required by an engineer in order to document their work and write papers that describe their designs.You should take both writing and business classes in college if you want to know business practices and commercial law.
Step 5: You can get a graduate degree.
If you want to become an aerospace engineer, you should get a master's or doctorate degree.This will add two and four years to your studies, but it is worth it to begin your career with the best education possible.Before applying to graduate school, you need to take the Graduate Record Exam.It is important that you complete and do well in all the required courses in graduate school.You need to research and write an original thesis to get a graduate degree.
Step 6: You need to complete a summer co-op or internship.
Some universities and colleges offer internship programs.You can gain practical experience and exposure to the professional environment with the help of these programs.The opportunity to network and acquire professional references will be provided by completing a co-op or internship.
Step 7: You need to apply for an apprenticeship.
An apprenticeship will give you experience as an engineer.You will learn the basic requirements of the job, but you will also be able to pick up tips and tricks from someone who knows all the ins and outs of aerospace engineering.NASA field centers offer apprenticeship programs for 10 weeks to five years.A degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics is required for NASA apprenticeships.You must have a 3.0 or higher grade point average and be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to apply.On the NASA website, you can apply.
Step 8: As an engineer technician, you can work on aircraft.
It is easier to become a technician in the field of aerospace engineering.If you want to gain experience and connections in the industry, consider taking a position as a technician.Less education is required for this position, so you may be able to work as a technician part time while you finish your studies.
Step 9: Become a member of professional societies and organizations.
The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics is one of the organizations that you can join.You will be able to attend industry events, receive trade publications, and visit a career center for engineers.The $25 membership fee for students is the only fee charged by theAIAA.The National Aeronautical Engineering Honor Society doesn't charge a membership fee if you have a Bachelor's degree in the field.
Step 10: There is a mentor in the industry.
A great way to gain experience is to find a mentor in the industry.If you have a good relationship with a professor or supervisor of your internship, co-op, or apprenticeship, talk to them about becoming your mentor.The Architecture, Construction, and Engineering (ACE) Mentor Program of America can help you find a mentor in the industry.Send an email to the person you want to mentor.Say something like, "I really admire your dedication to and knowledge of aerospace engineering."I need a mentor to help me learn the ropes and make connections.Would you be willing to be my mentor?
Step 11: Apply to manufacturing companies.
While working for a manufacturing company, you will be able to provide technical expertise as well as help with projects from development to implementation.The United Space Alliance, Boeing Co., and the ASRC are just a few examples of manufacturing companies you could contact.
Step 12: You can apply with engineering firms.
Many engineering service firms require their engineers to use statistical tools to perform modeling and prediction, as well as develop standards and guidelines.You can find jobs at companies like Woodward, Inc.
Step 13: Apply to federal agencies.
The military, as well as NASA, need qualified engineers to develop and test propulsion units for spaceships, aircraft, and missiles.To find and apply for jobs from these agencies, visit the NASA careers website as well as government websites.
Step 14: Get a license.
You will be qualified for higher levels of leadership if you get a Professional Engineer's license.You need a degree and four years of work experience to get a PE license.You will need to pass both the Fundamentals of Engineering and Professional Engineering exams.