Aerospace engineers are employed in a wide range of work environments from cleaning an aircraft all the way to national defense. A multitude of aerospace engineers work for the government directly, or for businesses that provide services to the government. There are also some aerospace engineers that work for private companies.
Most aerospace engineering work is conducted in an office setting. Computers are used to create and test components to create and test programs related to air and space crafts. Occasionally, the aerospace engineer will go to the facilities where their designs are put into practice, in order to see their thoughts in action.
Successful aerospace engineers possess the following skills:
CAD Skills: Computer assisted design skills are needed, as aerospace engineers will be developing and testing different designs. Most companies that hire aerospace engineers use design programs that are proprietary and the engineers must be able to learn on the job.
Business Skills: Federal regulations and processes must be adhered to, so the aerospace engineers must have some skill in business administration. Business fundamentals and legal knowledge are imperative for success.
Communication Skills: Aerospace engineers are usually placed in large groups to complete projects. Because of this, being able to communicate thoughts and ideas is necessary. The aerospace engineer must be able to speak clearly to communicate their ideas with the team, and have the ability to listen to the ideas of others in order to come up with a solution.
Analytical Skills: Aerospace engineers analyze problems and conduct research to come up with solutions for new designs and strategies that will work better for the common goal.
Problem Solving Skills: Aerospace engineers will regularly be testing designs and upgrading them when necessary. Problem solving skills are key to finding solutions and resolving issues.
Math Skills: Aerospace engineers use a lot of calculus, geometry, trigonometry and other mat subcategories to develop and test their designs.
Aerospace engineers hold bachelor's degrees in an accredited engineering program. To be considered for an entry level aerospace engineering position, no other credentials are required. As the aerospace engineer climbs the company ladder, a professional engineering license may be required. To get this license, the aerospace engineer must pass a test and have atlas four years of experience within the industry. This would allow the aerospace engineer to manage others, and to sign plans into practice. For those that are serious about their careers in aerospace engineering, additional training and credentials are always available.
