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Aerospace engineering is the study of design, construction, testing, maintenance and research of aircraft and spacecrafts. It is one of the most exciting and challenging fields of engineering which requires special academic qualifications and training. You will be taught advanced concepts of physics and mathematics as a part of the educational programs conducted for creating new aerospace engineers. If you have passion for spacecrafts and aircrafts then a job as an aerospace engineer is perfect for you.

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EditSteps

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    Know what aerospace engineering is all about. Before deciding on your career you must be aware of at least the basic idea as to what does it entail. You can refer to various freely available online resources and scientific journals to know about this branch of engineering.
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    Concentrate on developing mathematics and physics aptitude during high school. Aerospace engineering requires exceptional math skills, numerical aptitude and a sound understanding of important physics concepts such gravitation, fluid mechanics, aerodynamics, material science and solid mechanics amongst others. Although you will be studying all these topics in details while graduating in aeronautics engineering, high school is the best time to develop a strong base.
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    Develop strong analytical skills. An analytical mind is able to solve complex problems and make sound decisions based on the available data. Strong analytical skills are a must for a successful career in aerospace engineering. While some are born as analytical thinkers, others can develop them with simple improvements to their way of thinking. Playing mind games such as crosswords, chess, and other strategy-based computer games is another fun way of improving your analytical skills.
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    Enroll for a degree in aeronautical or aerospace engineering. This is the most obvious of all steps. Find universities and colleges that offer a four year degree in aeronautical engineering and enroll in one of them. Ensure that you study hard and get good GPA so as to get placed right after completing your graduation. Besides, the course must be accredited by ABET or Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
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    Explore other branches of engineering. There are limited numbers of good colleges that offer aeronautical engineering. However, in order to broaden your horizons you should also explore related subjects like mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and electronics and telecommunication engineering. There is some application of each of these branches of engineering in development of aircraft and avionics system.
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    Get a summer internship. Once you are through the sophomore year, it’s time to apply for an internship to get some hands-on experience of the aerospace industry. The industry is going through a rough phase right now with Bureau of Labor & Statistics predicting just 7 per cent growth from 2012 to 2022. Having some professional experience under your belt in such times will help you an upper hand over the competition.
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    Graduate school is the place to be. Unless you land a very lucrative employment opportunity, you should head straight towards a graduate school. There are two benefits to pursuing a Masters degree in aerospace engineering. While you will studying the concepts in much more depth and detail, having ample opportunities for research and development, you will also make new industry connections that will again prove instrumental in your job search.
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    Gain a Professional Engineer’s License. While it is not mandatory to pursue a Professional Engineer’s license for Aerospace Engineers, some employers do recommend a PE license in electrical or mechanical engineering. The eligibility for taking PE exam include passing Fundamentals of Engineering exam, which is typically the first step in the process leading to becoming a PE. One can take FE exam right after graduating from the college. NCEES the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying is the governing body for conducting these exams and awarding licenses.
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    Keep a watch out for new jobs. You should start your search for new jobs while in graduate school itself. Networking with people who are already in the industry is the best way to gain an entry, unless your college gets you placed in a reputed organization.
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Categories: Work World

Recent edits by: Wikihower13, WikiHow Intern, Dondante

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