An aeronautic engineer is a person who studies, designs, and constructs aircraft. Aeronautical engineers must have a strong scientific and mathematical education. They must also be prepared for a demanding career that could lead them to a variety of employers, ranging from the armed forces to space explorers.
The aeronautic engineer must be well-versed in a variety of disciplines. For one thing, understanding air motion — or aerodynamics — is something that aircraft engineers deal with on a daily basis, as is noise control, fluid flow, and propulsion, or the study of acceleration. Calculus and linear algebra provide advanced mathematical principles that are crucial. A well-rounded aeronautic engineer candidate combines creative, analytical, computer, and teamwork skills. First and foremost, a successful aeronautical engineer will have a combination of intelligence, perseverance, and ambition.
For the best job prospects, individuals should supplement a basic educational foundation with an advanced engineering degree — preferably a bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s degree. Most reputable programs are accredited; in the United States, for example, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology is the primary accrediting body. Many institutions offer specific aeronautical engineering degrees, but the content of many other engineering concentrations is similar enough that a person could choose any of them. Mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, acoustical engineering, and automotive engineering are all common majors in aeronautic engineering. Following the completion of degrees, a candidate will most likely be required to pass a certification exam in order to obtain licensure.
A wide range of aeronautical engineering jobs are available in several subspecialties. Working in aviation, which focuses on aircraft that are heavier than air, may be appealing. People who are interested in space and, as a result, spacecraft such as rockets and satellites, may be drawn to aerospace engineering. Aeronautic engineers may design and develop missiles or other air-based weapons in the military, which is another career area that frequently uses aeronautics. The airline industry is one of the most common job opportunities for aeronautic specialists.
Individual aeronautical engineers frequently specialize in a specific skill set. As analytical researchers, some people work primarily in laboratories. These scientists may conduct in-depth research into basic physics or work as problem solvers, applying their findings to specific aircraft issues. Other aeronautical engineers work in teams to design aircraft components such as engines, with different individuals designing different components. Manufacturing and field service aeronautic engineers are the engineers who actually put the plane together and inspect it at the end of the process.