The basics
What's it like to be an aerospace engineer?
Overview
Aerospace system engineers design the system in aerospace products. They build safe, efficient, and inexpensive aircrafts along with the parts and technologies functioning inside. While aerospace systems engineering may not be a common career path, for students interested in physics, space, and technology, this career is perfect. Aerospace system engineers work alongside aeronautical and astronautical engineers to design aircrafts and spacecraft, respectively. Aerospace system engineers are constantly learning, adapting to new technologies and honing their skills along with their team. Since learning about new things and continuously growing is a crucial part of this career, these engineers must always be willing to grow and adapt.
Requirements
In order to become an aerospace systems engineer, the basic requirement is a bachelor’s degree, usually in aerospace engineering. This degree must be accredited by the ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc.), so students can join the workforce and apply as an aerospace systems engineer after obtaining their degree. However, students can choose to complete a master’s degree or apply for a university program that offers a bachelor’s and master’s degree combined in a total of 5 years. Some more advanced positions require a Professional Engineer license and passing scores on both the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Professional Engineering Exam, which are both very rigorous tests.
What Can High School Students Do?
- Take classes to hone your skills in these areas, such as:
- Physics
- Engineering studies
- Advanced mathematics
- Computer programming
- Chemistry
- Cultivate your interest in space and aircraft
- Try to design something or explore a computer software
- Work with your hands or attend an arts and crafts class
- Attend an engineering summer camp. Find one here:
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