Morgan
Is it hard to get a job in the Field of engineering I want to go into?
I want to be an Aerospace engineer but I am not sure if it is really hard to get into and find a good job in this area of engineering. I know the world always needs engineers but I don't really hear much or find a lot of information on Aerospace engineering. #technology
3 answers
Saran Raj
Saran’s Answer
Bruce Coe
Bruce’s Answer
But like any adult, I have had to look for work. Don't know about you, but it is one of my least favorite things to do.
I know that is a terrible pep talk, but I just wanted to say that a job search will typically be ALL rejections except one.
Still a lousy pep talk. My point is, steel yourself for those rejections, and allow for them as part of the process, just like every other part of each you you apply for. Prepared that way, hopefully each "No" won't ruin your energy for the greater task for securing work for yourself.
Be aware that once you are in, many medium to larger size companies will allow for job transfers internally - maybe after a year but eventually. So accepting a less than ideal job can be a good move.
Job interviews tips:
- Always do your homework (read the company website, learn the CEO's name, the hiring manager's name, what the company does, etc, etc)
- Be an "equal" to whoever is interviewing you - even with no experience you can be the professional they should hire (it's ok to act a part)
- Learn everyone's name and use it every chance
- Ask if it's ok to take notes, then do so (I use legal pad & pen)
- Listen intently; give full answers, go beyond (a little) for fuller answer
- Ask THEM questions (have some stock ones ready)
- Laugh & smile and be someone they like
- Always let them know you were glad to meet them (say their name again) and that you want the job (or don't)
- Pre-COVID: Always shake hands when meet & when leave (not maybe not yet for awhile)
- Ask them what the next steps are
Hope it helps. Good luck. Go get 'em!
Kate Fay
Kate’s Answer
Morgan,
There are many opportunities for aerospace engineering however you may need to be open to moving for some of the larger companies. Boeing, Gulfstream, Pratt and Whitney, Lockheed Martin, Rolls Royce (they make engines as well as cars!) , FAA, NASA and Tesla are some examples of the larger companies that will hiring aerospace engineers. Then there are many smaller companies too that need aerospace engineers.
One option to consider is to get a bachelors in mechanical engineering with a concentration in aerospace engineering. This will open up possibilities if you decide half way through college you do not want to go into aerospace. With a mechanical engineering degree you can still go into aerospace and get a masters in aerospace if you still want to be in that field after graduating undergrad. It is hard to decide what you want to do with out fully understanding the field.
Engineering is also a great foundation to go into other careers if your interests change over the years or you can't find a job in your field. I got a mechanical engineering bachelor's degree but now work in the telecom/ technology industry. Don't worry too much about what exact jobs will be open when you graduate since the jobs will change as well.
Kate recommends the following next steps: