3 answers
1
Question
Updated
484 views
I am in 8th Grade at a private school in MA
I am in 8th Grade at a private school in MA I would like to know, how is the best way to get into aviation or mechanical (or automotive) engineering? It has been a passion very anything with an engine since I was very young and I always loved hearing and watching these vehicles on the ground or in the air.
Login to comment
3 answers
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Steven:
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Mechanical Engineering. Physics and chemistry will be the core science courses. For math, statistics and calculus will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail and observation skills; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration amongst team members, partner departments and clients occur on a daily basis. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills since analysis reports are generated and findings are presented to colleagues and other professionals who deal with Mechanical Engineering. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers. They can help guide your educational pathway for Mechanical Engineering.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Mechanical Engineering:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Stanford University
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Purdue University (West Lafayette)
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- California Institute of Technology
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Texas (Austin)
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/engineering-doctorate-mechanical
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are some top careers in Mechanical Engineering:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Automotive Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Business Executive
- Construction Engineer
- Entrepreneur
- Intellectual Property Attorney
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Management Consultant
- Mechanical Engineer
- Patent Lawyer
- Production Engineer
- Project Lead
- Project Manager
- Petroleum Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Product Designer
- Quality Engineer
- Sales Engineer
- Structural Engineer
- Technology Specialist
- Thermal Engineer
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/articles/what-you-can-do-with-a-mechanical-engineering-degree
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Mechanical Engineering!
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Mechanical Engineering. Physics and chemistry will be the core science courses. For math, statistics and calculus will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail and observation skills; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration amongst team members, partner departments and clients occur on a daily basis. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills since analysis reports are generated and findings are presented to colleagues and other professionals who deal with Mechanical Engineering. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers. They can help guide your educational pathway for Mechanical Engineering.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Mechanical Engineering:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Stanford University
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Purdue University (West Lafayette)
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- California Institute of Technology
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Texas (Austin)
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/engineering-doctorate-mechanical
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are some top careers in Mechanical Engineering:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Automotive Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Business Executive
- Construction Engineer
- Entrepreneur
- Intellectual Property Attorney
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Management Consultant
- Mechanical Engineer
- Patent Lawyer
- Production Engineer
- Project Lead
- Project Manager
- Petroleum Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Product Designer
- Quality Engineer
- Sales Engineer
- Structural Engineer
- Technology Specialist
- Thermal Engineer
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/articles/what-you-can-do-with-a-mechanical-engineering-degree
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Mechanical Engineering!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6541
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Steven!
Getting into Aviation or Mechanical (or Automotive) Engineering
1. Understand the Fields of Interest
Before diving into the steps for pursuing a career in aviation or mechanical/automotive engineering, it is essential to understand what each field entails.
Aviation Engineering focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of aircraft and spacecraft. It includes various specializations such as aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, and materials science.
Mechanical Engineering is broader and encompasses the design and manufacturing of machines and systems across various industries, including automotive. Automotive engineering is a subset of mechanical engineering that specifically deals with the design, production, and operation of vehicles.
2. Focus on Relevant Education
To pursue a career in either field, you will need a solid educational foundation:
High School Courses: Take courses in mathematics (especially calculus), physics, chemistry, computer science, and technology education. These subjects are crucial for understanding engineering principles.
Extracurricular Activities: Join clubs related to engineering or aviation such as robotics clubs or science fairs. Participating in these activities can enhance your practical skills and provide networking opportunities.
Advanced Placement (AP) Classes: If available at your school, consider taking AP classes in subjects like Physics or Calculus to prepare for college-level coursework.
3. Pursue Higher Education
After high school graduation:
Choose the Right College: Research colleges that offer strong programs in aerospace engineering or mechanical/automotive engineering. Look for schools with accredited programs by organizations like ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).
Consider Community Colleges: If you’re unsure about committing to a four-year university right away, community colleges often offer associate degrees in engineering fields that can be transferred to a four-year institution later.
Internships and Co-op Programs: While studying, seek internships or cooperative education programs that provide hands-on experience in aviation or automotive settings. This real-world experience is invaluable.
4. Gain Practical Experience
Engaging with practical experiences will enhance your understanding:
Workshops and Summer Programs: Participate in summer camps or workshops focused on aviation mechanics or automotive repair. Many universities offer programs for high school students interested in engineering.
Networking Opportunities: Attend industry conferences or local meetups related to aviation or automotive fields to connect with professionals who can provide guidance and mentorship.
5. Stay Informed About Industry Trends
Keeping up-to-date with advancements in technology within your chosen field is vital:
Read Industry Publications: Subscribe to magazines like “Aviation Week” or “Automotive Engineering” to stay informed about new technologies and trends.
Follow Online Forums & Communities: Engage with online communities such as Reddit’s r/engineering where you can ask questions and share knowledge with peers who have similar interests.
6. Prepare for Graduate Studies (if necessary)
Depending on your career goals:
Some positions may require advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) especially if you are interested in research roles or specialized areas within aviation or automotive engineering.
In summary, pursuing a career in aviation or mechanical/automotive engineering involves building a strong educational foundation through relevant coursework during high school, selecting an appropriate college program, gaining practical experience through internships and workshops, staying informed about industry developments, and considering further education if needed.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
This organization provides resources on mechanical engineering practices including educational pathways and professional development opportunities within the field.
2. Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
ABET accredits college programs globally ensuring they meet quality standards essential for preparing students for technical careers including aerospace and mechanical engineering.
3. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
NASA offers insights into aerospace careers along with educational resources aimed at students interested in pursuing careers related to aviation technology and space exploration.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Getting into Aviation or Mechanical (or Automotive) Engineering
1. Understand the Fields of Interest
Before diving into the steps for pursuing a career in aviation or mechanical/automotive engineering, it is essential to understand what each field entails.
Aviation Engineering focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of aircraft and spacecraft. It includes various specializations such as aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, and materials science.
Mechanical Engineering is broader and encompasses the design and manufacturing of machines and systems across various industries, including automotive. Automotive engineering is a subset of mechanical engineering that specifically deals with the design, production, and operation of vehicles.
2. Focus on Relevant Education
To pursue a career in either field, you will need a solid educational foundation:
High School Courses: Take courses in mathematics (especially calculus), physics, chemistry, computer science, and technology education. These subjects are crucial for understanding engineering principles.
Extracurricular Activities: Join clubs related to engineering or aviation such as robotics clubs or science fairs. Participating in these activities can enhance your practical skills and provide networking opportunities.
Advanced Placement (AP) Classes: If available at your school, consider taking AP classes in subjects like Physics or Calculus to prepare for college-level coursework.
3. Pursue Higher Education
After high school graduation:
Choose the Right College: Research colleges that offer strong programs in aerospace engineering or mechanical/automotive engineering. Look for schools with accredited programs by organizations like ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).
Consider Community Colleges: If you’re unsure about committing to a four-year university right away, community colleges often offer associate degrees in engineering fields that can be transferred to a four-year institution later.
Internships and Co-op Programs: While studying, seek internships or cooperative education programs that provide hands-on experience in aviation or automotive settings. This real-world experience is invaluable.
4. Gain Practical Experience
Engaging with practical experiences will enhance your understanding:
Workshops and Summer Programs: Participate in summer camps or workshops focused on aviation mechanics or automotive repair. Many universities offer programs for high school students interested in engineering.
Networking Opportunities: Attend industry conferences or local meetups related to aviation or automotive fields to connect with professionals who can provide guidance and mentorship.
5. Stay Informed About Industry Trends
Keeping up-to-date with advancements in technology within your chosen field is vital:
Read Industry Publications: Subscribe to magazines like “Aviation Week” or “Automotive Engineering” to stay informed about new technologies and trends.
Follow Online Forums & Communities: Engage with online communities such as Reddit’s r/engineering where you can ask questions and share knowledge with peers who have similar interests.
6. Prepare for Graduate Studies (if necessary)
Depending on your career goals:
Some positions may require advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) especially if you are interested in research roles or specialized areas within aviation or automotive engineering.
In summary, pursuing a career in aviation or mechanical/automotive engineering involves building a strong educational foundation through relevant coursework during high school, selecting an appropriate college program, gaining practical experience through internships and workshops, staying informed about industry developments, and considering further education if needed.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
This organization provides resources on mechanical engineering practices including educational pathways and professional development opportunities within the field.
2. Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
ABET accredits college programs globally ensuring they meet quality standards essential for preparing students for technical careers including aerospace and mechanical engineering.
3. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
NASA offers insights into aerospace careers along with educational resources aimed at students interested in pursuing careers related to aviation technology and space exploration.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Updated
Christian’s Answer
Michael's response was indeed exceptional and spot-on. However, we'd like to further enrich it with these additional suggestions:
* Consider reaching out to local engineering or aviation companies for an internship. This could be a chance for you to volunteer your time to handle phone calls or assist at the reception desk, in return for the opportunity to shadow professionals and gain deeper insights into the industry. This early exposure to a company could prove beneficial when you need connections to secure an internship before college.
* Make it a habit to continuously build your portfolio based on your interests. Embrace challenges or projects that you conceive or discover online. This opens up the possibility of showcasing your commitment and intellectual growth on platforms like YouTube or LinkedIn, through your thought processes and methodologies.
* Look into joining local robotics teams. Your high school or a nearby college might already have one.
* If it's feasible for your family, think about participating in robotics camps.
* While it may come with a hefty price tag, courses like the one linked below offer you the chance to learn the engineering process. This knowledge could help you build a robust foundation that will serve you well in the future. Prestigious institutions like MIT also offer free courses. (Link:https://studio.com/classes/mark-rober/creative-engineering)
* Consider reaching out to local engineering or aviation companies for an internship. This could be a chance for you to volunteer your time to handle phone calls or assist at the reception desk, in return for the opportunity to shadow professionals and gain deeper insights into the industry. This early exposure to a company could prove beneficial when you need connections to secure an internship before college.
* Make it a habit to continuously build your portfolio based on your interests. Embrace challenges or projects that you conceive or discover online. This opens up the possibility of showcasing your commitment and intellectual growth on platforms like YouTube or LinkedIn, through your thought processes and methodologies.
* Look into joining local robotics teams. Your high school or a nearby college might already have one.
* If it's feasible for your family, think about participating in robotics camps.
* While it may come with a hefty price tag, courses like the one linked below offer you the chance to learn the engineering process. This knowledge could help you build a robust foundation that will serve you well in the future. Prestigious institutions like MIT also offer free courses. (Link:https://studio.com/classes/mark-rober/creative-engineering)