Flight Controls Engineer

Flight Controls Engineers design control systems for aircraft. They work with stability, control, and simulation engineers to develop systems for military and commercial aircraft and rotorcraft. These systems ensure that the aircraft can be safely flown by the pilot and that it meets performance requirements.

Job Outlook

Job growth for flight controls engineers is expected to be excellent over the next decade as the demand for new and improved aircraft increases. This is due in part to the growing popularity of air travel and the increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Responsibilities

Flight Controls Engineers perform the following tasks:

• Design and analyze flight control systems
• Develop and test software for flight control systems
• Integrate flight control systems with other aircraft systems
• Work with pilots and other stakeholders to ensure that flight control systems meet requirements

Education

Flight Controls Engineers typically possess a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Coursework in aerodynamics, flight dynamics, and control theory is essential. Some flight controls engineers also have experience in computer science or software engineering.

Skills

Flight Controls Engineers must possess the following skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of aerodynamics, flight dynamics, and control theory
• Ability to design and analyze flight control systems
• Ability to develop and test software for flight control systems
• Ability to work with pilots and other stakeholders to ensure that flight control systems meet requirements

Personality Traits

Flight Controls Engineers are typically analytical, detail-oriented, and have a strong interest in mathematics and science. They are also able to work independently and as part of a team.

Personal Growth

Flight Controls Engineers have the opportunity to learn about new technologies and to work on cutting-edge projects. They can also develop their leadership and management skills by taking on more responsibilities.

Projects

Flight Controls Engineers may work on a variety of projects, such as:

• Designing a new flight control system for a new aircraft
• Developing software for a new flight control system
• Integrating a flight control system with other aircraft systems
• Testing a flight control system on a simulator or in flight
• Working with pilots and other stakeholders to ensure that a flight control system meets requirements

Self-Guided Projects

Students who are interested in a career as a Flight Controls Engineer can complete a number of self-guided projects to better prepare themselves for the role. These projects could include:

• Building a model aircraft and testing its flight characteristics
• Developing a computer program to simulate the flight of an aircraft
• Interning or volunteering at an aerospace company or research lab

Online Courses

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about the fundamentals of flight controls engineering. These courses can provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to enter the field or to advance their careers. Some of the topics that are covered in online courses include:

• Aerodynamics
• Flight dynamics
• Control theory
• Flight control system design
• Flight control system testing

Online courses can be a good option for students who want to learn about flight controls engineering at their own pace and on their own schedule. However, it is important to note that online courses alone are not enough to prepare students for a career in flight controls engineering. Students will also need to gain practical experience through internships or other hands-on opportunities.