Aerospace Engineers
Most people grow up with the dream and aspiration of space travel. Aerospace engineers can turn that dream into a reality. Although they won’t actually be traveling into space, they can make it a possibility for others. Aerospace engineering is the perfect career for individuals who are interested in engineering and flight.
Career Opportunities for Aerospace Engineers
Many aerospace engineers enter the aviation field. These individuals are often referred to as aeronautical engineers and are responsible for the design and creation of new aircraft. This includes the development of commercial airplanes, as well as, smaller private aircraft. Astronautical engineers, in contrast, create and develop spacecraft. In addition to developing spacecraft, these engineers work with missiles, rockets, and military jets. NASA and the Department of Defense are excellent sources for career opportunities. Other astronautical engineers might want to seek out jobs with aerospace manufacturers. The current trend is to hire aerospace engineers for work in the automotive industry. This industry is always in search of the latest and greatest automobile. Aerospace engineers have the qualifications to design vehicles with greater fuel efficiency.
Necessary Qualifications
A college degree in aerospace engineering is required for work in this field. Many engineers go on to earn a master’s degree or a PhD in a specialized field. Students choose a field of specialization, such as thermodynamics, aerodynamics, or acoustics to better match a specific job. Candidates should be familiar with computer-aided design (CAD) software, as well. Engineers are typically risk takers. They are willing to try new designs or concepts, even when the risk of failure is present. They also need to be creative and able to work with a team. Those who excel in mathematics will have a strong advantage.
Salaries and Advancement Opportunities
Aerospace engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 per year. An individual with a master’s degree or PhD can command the higher salary. A slow in air travel has caused a demand decline for aerospace engineers. However, many of these individuals can now pursue careers in the automotive industry. In recent years, there has been a decrease in aerospace engineer graduates. This will create more of a demand in the future as current aerospace engineers begin to retire. This factor makes aerospace engineering a very promising career for the future.
*This is a summarized article created to allow for a quick career review. For the most accurate and up-to-date information visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor website to learn more about Aerospace Engineers.
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copyright 2005
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