Is there any specific sets of skills do I need to be qualified as an engineer?
I really am hoping to be an aerospace engineer and want to know if I got what it takes. I am skilled with my hands and math is fairly easy to me, sure a bit challenging but a lot of fun. #college #engineer #aerospace #skills
3 answers
Shannon’s Answer
Aerospace engineering course requirements vary university by university so for specifics you should look at some schools you're interested in and find their Future students section to read more about the program.
In general for engineering though you'll need to master advanced math including calculus AB, BC, 3, differential equations, and linear algebra.
Specifically for aerospace you'll also need to be good at physics in the kinematics group. So things like basic Newton's laws to more advanced science like control theory, statics, dynamics, fluids, and possible material science. These are all coursework and knowledge though.
In terms of "skills" you'll need to be a hard work, dedicated, have the ability to think outside the box. There's a difference between being able to solve known equations and being able to solve novel problems in a real world situation with real world constraints.
Take all the advance math classes that you can and also physics courses. if you love them and do well in them you'll do fine as an aerospace engineer.
http://www.nasa.gov/centers/ames/education/internships/#.VabFVflViko
Andrei’s Answer
Hello Jasmine,
The drive and desire is all you need. Work hard and study and the rest should work out.
I too wanted to be an engineer, was good with my hands and was good at math. In my senior year of high school, I took the option of pre-engineering and AP Calculus and AP Physics. Although I did OK in the classes, it made me realize that engineering is not for me. 20 years later I am sorry that I did not stick with it.
Follow your dreams, you will need to work hard at it, but you will never regret it.
Good luck.
Jesse’s Answer
Sounds like you have the right toolset for aerospace engineering. A passion and talent for mathematics will definitely serve you well.
Physics requires a solid base of mathematics, and that is the core component of aerospace engineering. Additionally I would suggest physical sciences, electrical engineering, materials science, fluid dynamics.
Computer science would also be a fantastic addition. Much of what you will be doing will be done first as simulation, modeling. Good understanding of algorithms and basic computer simulation will be valuable in most areas of aerospace engineering. In addition, control systems are automated in most cases, so even as an engineer you will have a lot of software and hardware to interact with.