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Student
Keene, New Hampshire
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I'm Looking To learn more about Aerospace Engineering
I'm currently a student at Job Corps in NH and am looking to help design the next generation of Aircraft and space exploration rockets for the United States.
I'm taking Adv. manufacturing where my Teacher was a defense contractor and is very knowledgeable about aerospace engineering and has been very informative about the concepts I had a good grasp on but needed more in-depth info on, I want to work in this field because it's my passion.
I know I need at least a bachelor's degree and with scholarships I can easily get that done, but from there I do not know where to go, where would I start looking for work? What skills should I continue to develop or start developing now? Where should I consider living for the best chance of being hired?
If anyone is willing to help me figure out more on this field and how would be best to get into it I would be very grateful, nonetheless thank you very much for reading this post
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3 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4968
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello,
That's fantastic that you're passionate about aerospace engineering! It's a challenging and rewarding field that's constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Here's some guidance to help you on your path:
Building Your Skills:
Math and Science: Since you mentioned excelling in these areas, keep up the good work! Strong foundations in calculus, physics (especially mechanics and thermodynamics) will be crucial for your engineering coursework.
Technical Skills: Your advantage here is your Advanced Manufacturing class. Consider expanding your knowledge of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software used for designing aerospace vehicles.
Problem-Solving and Teamwork: Engineering is all about solving complex problems. Hone your analytical skills and learn to collaborate effectively in teams, as most aerospace projects involve multiple disciplines working together.
Education Path:
Bachelor's Degree: Aim for a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering or a closely related field like Aeronautical Engineering. Look for programs accredited by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).
Focus Areas: Within aerospace engineering, there are specializations like aerodynamics (aircraft flight mechanics), propulsion (rocket engines), and astronautics (spacecraft design). Explore these areas to see which excites you most.
Finding Work:
Job Location: Major aerospace hubs include Seattle (Boeing), Los Angeles (SpaceX), Huntsville, Alabama (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center), and the East Coast (many government contractors). However, with remote work becoming more common, location might be less of a constraint.
Job Search Resources: Look for job postings on platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and company websites of major aerospace firms (Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, NASA). Attend career fairs focused on aerospace engineering.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the field through online forums, professional organizations like AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics) or connect with your teacher's network at the defense contractor company.
Additional Tips:
Internships: Seek internship opportunities during your college breaks. This will provide valuable hands-on experience and help you stand out after graduation.
Consider a Master's Degree: While a bachelor's is sufficient for many entry-level positions, a Master's degree can qualify you for more specialized roles and potentially higher salaries.
Remember, passion is a great driver, and with hard work and focused development of the right skills, you can achieve your dream of contributing to the next generation of aerospace vehicles!
God Bless,
JC.
That's fantastic that you're passionate about aerospace engineering! It's a challenging and rewarding field that's constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Here's some guidance to help you on your path:
Building Your Skills:
Math and Science: Since you mentioned excelling in these areas, keep up the good work! Strong foundations in calculus, physics (especially mechanics and thermodynamics) will be crucial for your engineering coursework.
Technical Skills: Your advantage here is your Advanced Manufacturing class. Consider expanding your knowledge of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software used for designing aerospace vehicles.
Problem-Solving and Teamwork: Engineering is all about solving complex problems. Hone your analytical skills and learn to collaborate effectively in teams, as most aerospace projects involve multiple disciplines working together.
Education Path:
Bachelor's Degree: Aim for a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering or a closely related field like Aeronautical Engineering. Look for programs accredited by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).
Focus Areas: Within aerospace engineering, there are specializations like aerodynamics (aircraft flight mechanics), propulsion (rocket engines), and astronautics (spacecraft design). Explore these areas to see which excites you most.
Finding Work:
Job Location: Major aerospace hubs include Seattle (Boeing), Los Angeles (SpaceX), Huntsville, Alabama (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center), and the East Coast (many government contractors). However, with remote work becoming more common, location might be less of a constraint.
Job Search Resources: Look for job postings on platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and company websites of major aerospace firms (Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, NASA). Attend career fairs focused on aerospace engineering.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the field through online forums, professional organizations like AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics) or connect with your teacher's network at the defense contractor company.
Additional Tips:
Internships: Seek internship opportunities during your college breaks. This will provide valuable hands-on experience and help you stand out after graduation.
Consider a Master's Degree: While a bachelor's is sufficient for many entry-level positions, a Master's degree can qualify you for more specialized roles and potentially higher salaries.
Remember, passion is a great driver, and with hard work and focused development of the right skills, you can achieve your dream of contributing to the next generation of aerospace vehicles!
God Bless,
JC.
Thank You very much for your reply, on the CAD skills, is there any program I should learn in particular? I've used OpenSCAD for 3d printing and some RC planes, But is there software I should consider instead of continuing on those? I've also been playing around with MATLAB for a project I've been toying around with, is that common software used in the field? and if so are there tricks that you are aware of to speed up the scripting process? I'm sorry for leaving more questions in the thank you box, Thank you for answering my initial questions
Not
Reema Patel
sales associate
30
Answers
Greenwood, South Carolina
Updated
Reema’s Answer
I'm thrilled by your enthusiasm for aerospace engineering and your active steps towards a career in this dynamic sector. Here's a roadmap to guide you:
Education: Keep up the good work in your current studies and aim for a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering. Consider top-notch universities like MIT, Stanford, University of Michigan, or Caltech with robust aerospace programs. Make sure the program is ABET-accredited.
Skill Building:
Maths and Physics: Boost your knowledge of advanced maths, physics, and computer science - they're the pillars of aerospace engineering.
CAD and Simulation Tools: Master computer-aided design (CAD) tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA, and simulation tools like MATLAB or ANSYS.
Coding: Get a handle on engineering-focused programming languages like Python, C++, and MATLAB.
Analytical Skills: Hone your problem-solving and critical thinking skills through challenging coursework and projects.
Hands-on Experience:
Internships: Look for internships or co-op programs at aerospace firms or research institutions. Companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, SpaceX, and NASA offer invaluable practical experience.
Research: Get involved in aerospace engineering research projects at your university. This will boost your practical skills and make your CV shine.
Networking and Guidance:
Professional Groups: Join professional bodies like the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) to connect with industry experts and attend events and workshops.
Mentoring: Find mentors in the field, including your teacher, to guide, support, and advise you on your career journey.
Job Hunt and Career Strategy:
Job Sites and Company Pages: Regularly browse job sites focused on aerospace engineering and visit the careers sections of major aerospace firms.
Location: Think about moving to areas with a lot of aerospace firms, such as California (Silicon Valley, Los Angeles), Washington (Seattle), Texas (Houston, Dallas), and Florida (Cape Canaveral).
Government and Defense: Look into roles with government bodies like NASA, the Department of Defense, and defense industry contractors.
Advanced Education and Specialization:
Postgraduate Studies: Depending on your career ambitions, think about a master's or Ph.D. in aerospace engineering or a related field to specialize and boost your qualifications.
Certifications: Earn certifications relevant to aerospace engineering, like those from AIAA or specific software proficiency certifications.
Stay Updated and Motivated:
Trends: Stay informed about the latest breakthroughs in aerospace technology, such as new propulsion systems, materials science, and space exploration missions.
Hobby Projects: Dive into personal projects or hobbies linked to aerospace, like model rocketry, drone building, or flight simulations, to keep your passion alive and build practical skills.
By sticking to this roadmap and staying dedicated to your passion, you'll be well-equipped for a successful career in aerospace engineering. Best of luck!
Education: Keep up the good work in your current studies and aim for a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering. Consider top-notch universities like MIT, Stanford, University of Michigan, or Caltech with robust aerospace programs. Make sure the program is ABET-accredited.
Skill Building:
Maths and Physics: Boost your knowledge of advanced maths, physics, and computer science - they're the pillars of aerospace engineering.
CAD and Simulation Tools: Master computer-aided design (CAD) tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA, and simulation tools like MATLAB or ANSYS.
Coding: Get a handle on engineering-focused programming languages like Python, C++, and MATLAB.
Analytical Skills: Hone your problem-solving and critical thinking skills through challenging coursework and projects.
Hands-on Experience:
Internships: Look for internships or co-op programs at aerospace firms or research institutions. Companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, SpaceX, and NASA offer invaluable practical experience.
Research: Get involved in aerospace engineering research projects at your university. This will boost your practical skills and make your CV shine.
Networking and Guidance:
Professional Groups: Join professional bodies like the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) to connect with industry experts and attend events and workshops.
Mentoring: Find mentors in the field, including your teacher, to guide, support, and advise you on your career journey.
Job Hunt and Career Strategy:
Job Sites and Company Pages: Regularly browse job sites focused on aerospace engineering and visit the careers sections of major aerospace firms.
Location: Think about moving to areas with a lot of aerospace firms, such as California (Silicon Valley, Los Angeles), Washington (Seattle), Texas (Houston, Dallas), and Florida (Cape Canaveral).
Government and Defense: Look into roles with government bodies like NASA, the Department of Defense, and defense industry contractors.
Advanced Education and Specialization:
Postgraduate Studies: Depending on your career ambitions, think about a master's or Ph.D. in aerospace engineering or a related field to specialize and boost your qualifications.
Certifications: Earn certifications relevant to aerospace engineering, like those from AIAA or specific software proficiency certifications.
Stay Updated and Motivated:
Trends: Stay informed about the latest breakthroughs in aerospace technology, such as new propulsion systems, materials science, and space exploration missions.
Hobby Projects: Dive into personal projects or hobbies linked to aerospace, like model rocketry, drone building, or flight simulations, to keep your passion alive and build practical skills.
By sticking to this roadmap and staying dedicated to your passion, you'll be well-equipped for a successful career in aerospace engineering. Best of luck!
Jennifer King
Talent Acquisition
30
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Choosing Aerospace Engineering as a career path is a thrilling decision! I strongly suggest you explore internships during your college years. These internships offer a wonderful chance to peek into various companies and acquire priceless experience. Often, these internships pave the way to full-time job offers once you graduate. Wishing you all the best!