A career as an aerospace engineer might be a good fit for you if you have a passion for spacecraft or aeroplanes. Additionally, you should have strong mathematics and physics skills. Aerospace engineering is a highly technical industry with high pay, perks and job satisfaction.

An aerospace engineer creates and tests aeroplanes and spaceship prototypes. They build, construct and further test different types of aircraft to make sure they are perfect for flights and space missions. A career as an aerospace engineer is one of the most challenging fields of engineering and requires special academic qualifications and training.

Furthermore, getting the right education and gaining experience in this field can enable you to establish a successful career as an aerospace engineer.

In this piece, I will guide you on how to start and build a successful career as an aerospace engineer.

How to Pursue a Career as an Aerospace Engineer

1. Complete your Secondary Education

   Before you can study aerospace engineering, you need to have a good foundation in mathematics and science subjects. You should have a good understanding of subjects such as physics, calculus, trigonometry and chemistry. This foundational knowledge will give you a chance to get admitted into a tertiary institution. Additionally, it will enable scale through when you get into the university.

2. Develop your Analytical Skills

   You must have strong critical thinking and analytical skills to pursue a career as an aerospace engineer. You can develop these skills by engaging in hobbies and extracurricular activities such as playing mental games like crossword puzzles, chess and computer programming.

3. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

   You should apply to an accredited university and study to earn a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. This degree usually lasts for four years. Additionally, ensure that the university you are applying to is accredited to award a degree in aerospace engineering.

4. Develop Writing and Business Skills

   You must take extra classes to develop these skills. As an aerospace engineer, you will be required to document your work and write papers that clearly describe your designs. Additionally, this can improve your employability in a competitive field.

5. Apply for Internships

   You must undergo an internship with an aerospace company. This can give you valuable experience that will enhance your skills and your resume. Additionally, you can have the opportunity to start building a network of contacts within the aerospace industry.

6. Earn a Graduate Degree

   You must pursue a master’s degree in aerospace engineering. This may not be a major requirement. However, earning an advanced degree can enhance your employability.

7. Gain Experiences

   You must gain experience in the aerospace engineering industry. This would help you gain the trust of employers. Additionally, you will gain practical experiences and exposure to the professional environment. You can experience this through internships, apprenticeships and working as an aerospace engineer technician.

8. Join Professional Associations

   You should register and join a professional organisation related to this field. This will enable you to gain access to opportunities that can grow your career. Additionally, you can have access to industry experts that can guide your career decisions.

9. Get a Mentor

   Getting a mentor in this career field is an excellent method to get expertise and develop connections. You can talk to one of your professors or supervisors about being your mentor.

10. Get Licensed

    Acquiring a professional license will qualify you for higher levels of position in the aerospace engineering field. You should take the proper examination and pass to get a license.

Types of Aerospace Engineers

1. Aeronautical Engineers: These engineers study an aircraft’s aerodynamic performance, such as its materials, propulsion system and design. They are in charge of developing, designing and maintaining civilian, commercial and military aeronautical systems and components. Additionally, they are in charge of using cost-effective methods to develop ways of improving fuel efficiency and flight safety.
2. Astronautical Engineers: These engineers work with a wide range of spacecraft such as rockets, satellites, missiles, space launchers and navigation systems. They focus on designing, developing and testing spacecraft. Additionally, they are responsible for enhancing their technology and performance. Most of these engineers work for spacecraft manufacturers or the federal government.

Places where Aerospace Engineers Work

1. The military
2. Government Agencies
3. Aerospace Companies
4. Airlines
5. Consulting firms
6. Universities
7. Research Institutes
8. Systems and Software Suppliers

Universities to Study Aerospace Engineering in Africa

1. University of Cape Town, South Africa
2. Federal University of Technology Akure, Nigeria
3. University of Pretoria, South Africa
4. Mansoura University, Egypt
5. University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
6. Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco
7. University of the Free State, South Africa
8. Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria
9. University of Ibadan, Nigeria
10. Alexandria University, Egypt
11. Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria
12. University of Annaba, Algeria
13. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science of Technology, Ghana
14. University of Botswana
15. Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
16. University of Nigeria, Nigeria
17. Covenant University, Nigeria
18. University of Lagos, Nigeria
19. Rhodes University, South Africa
20. University of Sousse, Tunisia

Pursuing a career as an aerospace engineer is a highly responsible profession that requires a high level of competency and technical skill. You should pay quality attention to acquiring the right education and experience. Additionally, you should focus on building numeracy, analytical skills and business skills. The right education and skills will enable you to have a successful career as an aerospace engineer.

Good luck!

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