An aeronautical engineer oversees and organizes research, design, development, and testing of aircraft and aircraft subsystems. An aeronautical engineer is involved in examining aircraft to find out areas of improvement desired in future designs and reconstructions. An aeronautical engineer also works closely with aircraft technicians and mechanics to solve problems with aircraft within their area of expertise. He is also involved with communicating to aerospace clients to know about their comments, concerns, and queries on particular projects.
To graduate as an aerospace engineer, one needs to hold a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering. The curriculum includes aerospace structures, aerospace design, smart materials, safety systems management, sustainable design, engineering and management, advanced engineering materials, data quality in engineering computing, engineering professional practice, quality engineering, and management. There are technical schools as well as colleges and universities across the United States to undergo the desired program. The aerospace engineers also specialize in fields like thermodynamics, aerodynamics, propulsion systems, acoustics, celestial mechanic systems as well as all the systems which include control as well as guidance. There are various online training courses that can hone your skills as an aeronautical engineer after you acquire the degree. There are vocational schools too that offer certification courses.
There are a number of skills that an aeronautical engineer needs to possess. He should have good communications skill as he needs to communicate effectively and in a variety of media as well as with their managers, designers, engineers, and clients. As well, aeronautical engineers need to be abreast of the latest in aerospace technology in order to provide the best efforts to design and engineering teams. He should have team spirit and leadership qualities. Aeronautical engineers should have creative skills as they often need to provide solutions to design, mechanical, and other troubles that crop up in commercial airliners.
To get hired in a reputed firm he should have experience in the analysis of structures and broad knowledge of material properties. Experience in stress analysis and fracture mechanics analysis is preferred. Familiarity with the NASTRAN analyses program and engineering drawings systems is an advantage. Experience in the use of DEC VAX and IBM RS600 computing systems are also needed.
Technologies which are developed by these engineers are mostly used in defense and aviation as well as space exploration. Aerospace engineers also specialize in the designing of structures, navigating as well as controlling communication and instrumentation. These aerospace engineers also use technologies which are related to computers like CAD or computer aided design software, lasers, and highly developed electronic optics and robotics. He also designs fighter planes, commercial transport, spacecraft, helicopter, rockets, and missiles. The job prospects for aerospace engineers are increasing as the aerospace products and parts are widely being used. Engineers are needed for the routine repairs and checks of commercial airlines. As well, the government-sponsored agencies require engineers to enable themselves to generate better solutions for commercial and military airlines. Many engineers after gaining sufficient experience work on an individual basis. They look for contract work that is found through self-employment. But to be self employed one has to be an exceptional engineering graduate.
The salary of an Aerospace Engineer increases as one gains experience. It also increases depending on educational qualifications and skill set. An aeronautical engineer working for the federal government may earn around $81,000. A professional associated with architectural, engineering, and related services may draw up to $75,000. One who is involved in designing aerospace parts as well as product manufacturing can get about $70,000. These salaries also vary depending upon geographical location and the organization with which he is employed.
To be a successful aeronautical engineer one needs to stay up to date on the latest developments in aerospace industry news and trends. Most often aeronautical engineers have to travel to conferences and seminars that allow them to stay on the cutting edge. So make your career in aerospace engineering have a flying career in terms of remuneration and growth. All you need is the desired qualifications and the right skill set.