how to get a job in aerospace

Technology has drastically changed workforce needs. With new technological developments appearing on a regular basis, fields requiring skilled workers are growing quickly. The time of choosing a simple educational program from a limited number of choices is long over. Today’s students have the opportunity to work in fields ranging from medical technology to aerospace engineering, and far beyond. Getting an education in any of these quickly evolving fields can open up huge opportunities, but if you like science and math and you’re considering working in aerospace, then a degree in mechanical engineering technology may be the perfect choice for you. Here are a few tips that could help you get ready for a job in the aerospace engineering field.

The Right Mind-Set

Aerospace engineering isn’t a field for the faint of heart! Science and math are important parts of working as an aerospace engineer. Without a love of these, it can be nearly impossible to be satisfied working in the field. Your mindset needs to match the needs of the field, and a love of creating new things and working with computers is essential for those looking into aerospace engineering. The field is a fast-moving one, with new advances developing on a regular basis. If you’re looking into aerospace engineering as a career, it’s important to have the right mindset: curious, with a love of science, math, and problem-solving.

The Right Education

Aerospace engineering isn’t a field you can just walk into without the right education. It can take years to get the right degrees, and you have to be willing to put in the time for the required education. The minimum education typically required for aerospace engineers is a bachelor’s degree. If you’re serious, you might decide to continue your schooling.

The Right Work Ethic

In many aerospace jobs, you have to have a good work ethic, and be willing to be part of a cohesive group working toward a common goal. Efforts to build new systems require team work and being able to interact effectively with that team. On the other hand, you may be solely responsible for testing, assembling, or repairing various aerospace components like propulsion and control systems. Depending on which area of aerospace you choose, you may be required to keep track of a multitude of small details for the systems on which you work. This makes a good work ethic, and the ability to work with a team, very important.

The Right Skills

You need excellent scientific and analytical skills in order to perform well in any aerospace-related job. You’ll also need to be responsible and responsive, both for the projects you may work on, and when understanding new developments in the field. You may also be required to work long hours, which would require you to have good stamina and a lot of passion for your job.

mechanical engineering technician job growthAccording to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of aerospace engineering is expected to grow by about 4% between 2014 and 2024. While it's true that this is somewhat slower than the average for some other industries, the fact that many aerospace jobs require security clearances is expected to help keep those jobs in the United States, as they can't be outsourced. The BLS further reports a median annual salary of $51,980 for mechanical engineering technicians.

Technicians in aerospace engineering are typically responsible for operating and maintaining testing equipment for new air and space crafts. New designs are now being tested using unique computer programs to create comprehensive computer simulations of craft operations. This type of work is essential in the correct operation of new spacecraft, missiles, and aircraft. Quality assurance and operations are tested using advanced technologies and equipment to ensure that the systems going into various crafts are stable and in good working order. Duties for an aerospace technician could include:

  • Meeting with aerospace engineers to implement comprehensive testing procedures and discuss the details of new plans for aircraft and spacecraft
  • Building and maintaining aircraft system testing facilities
  • Fabricating and installing new parts and systems in order to perform required testing
  • Operating and calibrating computer systems so that they’re in compliance with testing protocols
  • Performing test procedures in a safe, efficient manner
  • Recording data captured from testing of new systems and part assemblies
  • Installing the proper instrumentation in aircraft and spacecraft
  • Performing quality control monitoring duties

Aerospace is an enormous industry, with new technicians, scientists, and engineers needed on a regular basis.

The Right Program: Earn a Mechanical Engineering Technology Degree!

Aerospace engineering is a very hands-on field. You’ll need an education that focuses not only on teaching the skills required, but also on letting you use them in the learning environment. That’s why ECPI University is such a great option for getting your degree. With hands-on training and a comprehensive curriculum, you can start earning your Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology today. It could be your first step on your new path in aerospace engineering! It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

Learn more about ECPI's College of Technology TODAY!

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Gainful Employment Information – Mechanical Engineering Technology - Bachelor’s

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