航空航天工程师

Launching and maintaining our world’s space exploration, communication systems, and defense systems relies on the work of aerospace engineers. They apply a conglomerate of engineering disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, chemical, civil, and astronautical engineering, to design, test, and build the aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and weapons systems we depend on. These engineering professionals solve complex problems that continue the expansion of our knowledge about space, while simultaneously strengthening and protecting our systems here on Earth with cutting-edge technologies and innovative designs.

Education and Career Path

To become an aerospace engineer, most professionals earn at least a bachelor’s degree and develop specialized skills and knowledge in aerodynamics, propulsion, materials science, and stability and control. Typical coursework includes math, physics, material science, and engineering design. Aerospace engineering students should seek opportunities to participate in hands-on projects. Look for opportunities to participate in research, design teams, and internships that provide real-world experience. An advanced degree, typically a master’s or doctorate, is often required for those looking to move into research and development, management, or academia.

Skills

To be a successful aerospace engineer, proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) is essential. MATLAB, SolidWorks, ANSYS, and CATIA are among the most common software platforms that aerospace engineers leverage. A strong grasp of these software programs allows engineers to perform various modeling, simulation, and analysis tasks that are essential to solve the complex problems inherent to the field.