So you want to be an… Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace Engineer Perform a variety of engineering work in designing, constructing, and testing aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. Salary – In 2008, the California average annual wage was: $74,716 for entry level workers, and $118,360 for experienced workers. Education – A bachelor's degree (4+ years of college). However, many also require graduate school (6+ years). – Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work- related experience, and/or training.

What does an Aerospace Engineer do? Plan and conduct experimental, environmental, operational and stress tests on models and prototypes of aircraft and aerospace systems and equipment. Develop design criteria for aeronautical or aerospace products or systems, including testing methods, production costs, quality standards, and completion dates. Direct and coordinate activities of engineering or technical personnel designing, fabricating, modifying, or testing of aircraft or aerospace products. Direct research and development programs. Write technical reports and other documentation such as handbooks and bulletins, for use by engineering staff, management, and customers. Formulate mathematical models or other methods of computer analysis to develop, evaluate, or modify design according to customer engineering requirements.

Outlook for the Future During 2009, there were approximately 27,000 people employed in this field in CA. It is estimated that in 2016 there will be 27,600 employed in CA.This represents an increase of 200 new positions each year.

Similar Occupations Industrial Engineering Technicians Petroleum Engineers Mining and Geological Engineers Mining Safety Engineers Marine Architects Marine Engineers Industrial Engineers Electrical Engineers Civil Engineers Engineering Managers

What will I need to know? Classes you will need to take for this career: Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering Mathematics Computers Physics Knowledge you will need to gain for this career: Engineering and Technology Design Computers and Electronics Physics Production and Processing

How Do I Get There? You will definitely need to major in science and/or math in college. The better grades you have, the better your chances for getting a great job with a well-known company like Boeing or JPL. Maintain an excellent GPA in high school and take 4 years of science and math classes. The more the better. Take middle school classes seriously. It’s your ticket into high school and taking the crucial classes that you need for college. If you don’t do well in middle school, you won’t be recommended for the classes you need in high school.

Questions? Speak to your counselor: Mrs. Scribner – Students with last names beginning with A-L Mrs. Jantz – Students with last names beginning with M-Z