What Training Do I Need for a Career in Aerospace?
Aerospace careers include manufacturing and professional positions supporting and conducting air and space flight. No matter what the position, an aerospace career requires extensive training either in college or on the job. Schools offering Aviation Management degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Aerospace Overview
The aerospace industry encompasses atmospheric and space flight, and careers are broadly divided between manufacturing and professional tracks. Manufacturing careers concentrate on fabricating vehicles and equipment, while professional careers concentrate on designing and flying it.
Important Facts about Aerospace Careers
| Work Environment | Primarily office settings, work with other professionals in a team setting, work primarily with firms and with the federal government |
| Key Skills | Math, critical-thinking, and analytical skills |
| Median Salary (2014) | $105,380 (for aerospace engineers) |
| Job Outlook (2014-2024) | -2% (for aerospace engineers) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Manufacturing Positions
Manufacturing positions in the aerospace field are primarily in the product and parts area, employing operations technicians. Many technical positions require an associate's degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), while some production positions only require a high school diploma or certificate. Individuals without postsecondary education increase their skills through experience and formal training sessions.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) offers a certification for technicians that may be beneficial when seeking employment. While not a requirement for employment, this certification will show the employer that the technicians has been tested and is capable of doing the work.
Professional Positions
Most entry-level positions for professional aerospace careers, such as aerospace engineers, require a bachelor's degree, according to the BLS. Some positions even require a master's or doctoral degree.
There are two types of aerospace engineers: aeronautical engineers and astronautical engineers. Aeronautical engineers design and build aircraft, while astronautical engineers design and build spacecraft. While aerospace engineers help build various aircraft, some aerospace engineers become astronauts.
To become an astronaut, individuals must have a bachelor's degree in engineering, math or science and at least three years of experience in their field, according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Astronauts who pilot spacecraft need excellent vision and at least 1,000 hours of experience flying aircraft.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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