Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineer

  • K

    Added Monday, March 3, 2025 at 12:26 PM

    To take engineering in university, I need to take A level maths but that isn't even a choice for me. I'm doing foundation maths meaning that the highest grade I can get is a 5 (9 is the highest but that's for a higher paper and I need at least a 7 for A level maths) but I'm so bad at maths I'm barely passing but I really want to do engineering. I'm looking at aerospace and pharmaceutical engineering. Is it possible to do engineering?
    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Bioengineering/Biomedical, Chemical, Difficult Classes, Engineering Skills, Math & Science, Preparation for College, Self Doubt
    Answers 1
    Moyra J. McDill, Carleton University
    Answered Monday, March 10, 2025 at 7:59 AM

    Engineers are problem solvers. This is a very good problem for you to solve on your way to becoming an engineer.

    First, how are you doing with other courses such as physics or chemistry? A-levels, or their equivalent, in these subjects and some others ...

  • Brooke Menne

    Added Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 11:51 AM

    I got rejected from only aero university in MN after previously pursing an aerospace degree elsewhere. Am I able to pursue the same dreams I had as an aerospace engineer if I do a mechanical degree?
    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Choosing a Degree, Engineering Branches, Mechanical, Merging Fields, Self Doubt
    Answers 1
    Kim de Groh, NASA Glenn Research Center
    Answered Friday, January 10, 2025 at 11:22 AM
    Hi Brooke, I can not answer your specific question, but I can let you know that I have a BS & MS in materials science and I work at NASA Glenn Research Center flying spaceflight experiments and studying the durability of spacecraft materials in the space ...
  • Ash

    Added Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at 1:14 PM

    I have taken 2 math classes in college. I have a B in Trig. and I think I am getting a C in Pre-Calc. I am wondering if getting a C will affect me if I want to continue majoring in engineering, especially aerospace engineering. I know I will do my best to get better grades in the next math classes, but I am not sure if I should continue or give up. Should I continue majoring in engineering or no?
    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Difficult Classes, Math & Science, Mechanical, Self Doubt
    Answers 1
    Kerri Phillips, Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
    Answered Monday, January 6, 2025 at 2:39 PM
    If you are passionate about engineering, then I wouldn't let a stumble in a class deter you from pursuing your dream of being an engineer. I know plenty of engineers who have received a C in a class and continued on to be highly successful in their ...
  • Halima

    Added Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 2:54 PM

    I am interested in studying aerospace engineering in uni but after that i want to go into project management, so i was wondering how you got into it? and any advice on how to go about it. thank you
    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Chemical, Choosing a Degree, Engineering Branches, Engineering Skills, Merging Fields, Nuclear
    Answers 1
    Answered Monday, September 16, 2024 at 2:16 PM
    There are many different ways to get into project management. Many companies that hire you will have a path and training within the company to help you on that path. Another option is to get an MBA, but I would get at least 2 years of experience before ...
  • Annabel

    Added Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 5:13 PM

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Bioengineering/Biomedical, Chemical, Choosing a Degree, Communications, Computer, Computers, Energy, Engineering Branches, Medicine, Software, Space
    Answers 1
    Tamara Floyd-Smith, West Virginia University Institute of Technology
    Answered Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at 10:38 AM
    In my opinion, engineering is the right subject for someone when there is either aptitude or interest.  It goes without saying that someone with both aptitude and interest would do well in the profession.  Many of my cis-female, engineering friends were ...
  • Linda Karas

    Added Sunday, January 29, 2023 at 7:20 PM

    Hello, I'm 48, I've been a SAHM mom for 16 years, and I never completed college. I am currently enrolled in community college for an associates in mechanical engineering with plans to earn my BS at the university level. I will be in my mid 50s (my brain withstanding), and I am wondering if doing all of this will, given my age, keep me in the running for employment (space industry is my goal)? I haven't been able to find the support for my unique non-traditional student status, so I'm hoping ...

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Difficult Classes, Internships & Jobs, Mechanical, Opportunities/Challenges for Women, Self Doubt, Unique Challenges, Work Environment
    Answers 1
    Jamie Krakover, The Boeing Company
    Answered Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at 3:28 PM
    I think you can absolutely find career opportunities after you graduate. STEM fields in general have an incredible need for talent and companies hire thousands upon millions of new grad each year. I know it's hard when you don't fit the typical vision of ...
  • Angel

    Added Saturday, April 23, 2022 at 2:41 AM

    Basically I can't afford a private school and all the free public schools in my city don't offer aerospace. I planned on getting my associates in mechanical engineering since it was free, save up more money then study aerospace engineering. I just don't want to waste my time, so is this plan possible or will I end up in school for more years ?
    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Education, Engineering Branches, Engineering Skills, Mechanical, Preparation for College, Space
    Answers 1
    Anne Spence, Baylor University
    Answered Sunday, January 29, 2023 at 5:29 PM
    You can absolutely study Mechanical Engineering (ME) and then continue in Aerospace Engineering (AE). Take advantage of any AE electives in the ME program and try to find an internship w/ a company in the aerospace industry. MEs are frequently hired by ...
  • Jazmyn asked Erin Cvrkel

    Added Sunday, April 10, 2022 at 5:41 PM

    I just came here to check out this web site because it looked cool.
    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Engineering Branches, Engineering Skills, Space
    Answers 1
    Answered Tuesday, May 10, 2022 at 11:22 AM

    Hi Jazmyn,

    Thanks for your question. My initial reaction is “How could ANYONE NOT love engineering?” I know that I’m biased, so I sat down and considered the question for a while.

    When we talk about the things that we feel strongly about, those people ...

  • Rahul raj asked Moyra J. McDill, Carleton University

    Added Monday, September 13, 2021 at 2:40 PM

    I am okay with basic physics and mathematics in high school but I am very bad at competition level questions.
    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Choosing a Degree, Self Doubt, Space
    Answers 1
    Moyra J. McDill, Carleton University
    Answered Friday, December 17, 2021 at 11:35 AM

    Dear Rahul,

    In the study of engineering, you will be introduced to the subjects needed for your discipline and part of that training will include learning methods for problem solving. So while questions or exams might feel competitive or even be labeled ...

  • Rosanna asked Felicia Guerrero Green, Collins Aerospace

    Added Thursday, April 1, 2021 at 10:15 PM

    I'm interested in getting an engineering degree but I'm not sure where to start ??? how did you figure it out?

    I've been an automotive technician/mechanic for years and am looking to go back to school for engineering. I have always loved science and fixing and building things. Not sure which direction to go in.

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Bioengineering/Biomedical, Choosing a Degree, Electrical, Engineering Branches, Environmental, Mechanical, Preparation for College, Special fields and Interdisciplinary
    Answers 1
    Felicia Guerrero Green, Collins Aerospace
    Answered Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at 5:26 PM
    Hi Rosanna! Thanks for the question! Figuring it out is what engineers are trained to do. We are problem solvers. Being that you are an automotive tech/mechanic, it sounds like you will have a lot of the foundation of tearing a problem down to is basic ...
  • Julija asked Karina M., VIRGIN GALACTIC

    Added Sunday, December 20, 2020 at 9:22 AM

    Im working on a presentation so an answer would be amazing.Thank you in advance.

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Choosing a Degree, Internships & Jobs
    Answers 1
    Karina M., VIRGIN GALACTIC
    Answered Monday, July 19, 2021 at 8:51 PM
    Hi Julija, thank you for reaching out with such a GREAT question! 
    As the aerospace field continues to grow, more companies are starting to open positions for not only experienced engineers, but also with the initiatives to bring on interns and new ...
  • Holly Engle asked Kelly Reid, Collins Aerospace

    Added Monday, November 16, 2020 at 11:54 AM

    For example, a school ranked 11th in the nation vs a school ranked 75th in the nation for their engineering programs. I'm a returning student and have applied to several schools. I am trying to determine which school will be the best option in terms of future employment. For example, UT Austin ranks 11th and Univ. of Central FL ranks 75th in the nation for their engineering programs. Will one school give me an edge of over the other when it comes to future employers? Or in the end, is ...

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Choosing a School, Internships & Jobs, Preparation for College
    Answers 1
    Kelly Reid, Collins Aerospace
    Answered Thursday, August 19, 2021 at 2:17 PM
    Obtaining your degree is the most important thing!  Both schools are great and when making your decisions, you should consider other factors. Do both programs have ABET accredited programs? Which offers you access to a better network, club involvement, ...
  • Syed Aamir asked Megan Harrington, Blue Origin

    Added Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at 11:37 AM

    Hey Megan, hope you're doin great, I was wondering if I complete my bachelors in mechanical engineering would I be able to become an Aircraft Engineer and work in the aircraft maintenance field

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Choosing a Degree, Engineering Branches, Mechanical
    Answers 1
    Megan Harrington, Blue Origin
    Answered Sunday, November 15, 2020 at 4:37 PM
    Hi Syed,
    
    You certainly can. I know a few folks at Boeing that are mechanical engineers and they support onsite tech support, troubleshoot problems, and get to work with aircraft hardware. Check out the opportunities for some aircraft companies!
    
    Hope ...
  • Sabri Reda asked Emily Flaherty-Woods, Collins Aerospace

    Added Saturday, August 29, 2020 at 6:10 PM

    Hello, I'm 15 and I have an important question for my future career: Are there some chances to be unemployed after a diploma as aeronautic engineering cause I heard that it's a closed circuit. When I say closed circuit I mean that there are not many companies that needs aeronautic engineers, and also if it's gonna be difficult to find a post. Thank you

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Choosing a Degree, Internships & Jobs
    Answers 1
    Emily Flaherty-Woods, Collins Aerospace
    Answered Tuesday, November 3, 2020 at 4:01 PM
    Hi - Great question! I wouldn't worry too much about finding a job if you pursue a career in aerospace engineering - the industry is always looking for passionate engineers and leaders. 
    
    Historically, the Aerospace & Defense (A&D) industry has provided ...
  • Isabella Gonzalez asked Debra Long, Collins Aerospace

    Added Thursday, July 9, 2020 at 4:22 PM

    I am trying to figure out whether it would be smarter to get a BS in Aerospace or Mechanical engineering, and then go on to a Masters in aerospace. Which would you suggest?

    I am entering my senior year of high school and am really passionate about one day working for either SpaceX/NASA or the like. I have not taken a jumpstart on engineering or tech classes since I have only recently became sure of my desired major, but have long been a lover of space. Now that it is time for me to ...

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Choosing a Degree, Engineering Branches, Graduate School, Mechanical
    Answers 1
    Debra Long, Collins Aerospace
    Answered Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at 8:02 AM
    I would highly suggest going straight for you BS in Aerospace!  That's what I did.  I actually got my BS in Aerospace and then my Master's in Mechanical.  The BS in Aerospace really exposed me to all of the aspects of aerospace engineering that are out ...
  • Amari Epkins asked Lauren Olsen, Collins Aerospace

    Added Sunday, July 5, 2020 at 1:18 PM

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Difficult Classes, Engineering Skills
    Answers 1
    Lauren Olsen, Collins Aerospace
    Answered Thursday, August 13, 2020 at 2:19 PM
    I think engineers have access to so many fancy mathematical tools to use to do their job. To that end, you don't have to be naturally good at math on order to succeed at being an engineer. You have to understand math well enough to know if your answers ...
  • Abby Collins asked Nafisa Alam, Collins Aerospace

    Added Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at 6:31 PM

    Hello! I am a 17 year old in high school that has been taking college classes these past two years. I have been really thinking lately and this past year what I want to do for a living. I love horses, but I have found out that they need to be my hobby, not job. I was thinking that I wanted to be a pilot, but with the Coronavirus, I want a more stable job that can endure slow downs like this. Now, I am thinking engineer again.

    I have been reading about the different types and I am ...

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Choosing a Degree, Electrical, Engineering Branches, Engineering Skills, Math & Science, Mechanical, Preparation for College, Self Doubt
    Answers 1
    Nafisa Alam, Collins Aerospace
    Answered Tuesday, July 14, 2020 at 12:58 PM
    Hi Abby! I didn’t realize I wanted to be an engineer until I was in the 11th grade. I didn’t know much about what engineers do until then either. I went into college with no background in engineering. Make sure you go to an institution accredited by ...
  • reashmitha asked Rosario Jacobsen, Collins Aerospace

    Added Saturday, June 6, 2020 at 11:19 AM

    is aerospace engineering good for girls? do girls have equal chances like boys? what can we do after completing aerospace engineering degree? can I become a pilot by studying this? i've been interested in becoming a pilot since my 10 grade year.

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Choosing a Degree, Opportunities/Challenges for Women, Self Doubt
    Answers 1
    Rosario Jacobsen, Collins Aerospace
    Answered Monday, July 13, 2020 at 8:25 AM
    Hi Reashmitha! I think this question has a two part answer:
    First, absolutely Aerospace Engineering is great for girls. I have never been in a situation where I had different chances than any of the boys in my course, and I don't think the other girls ...
  • Kaitlyn asked Kim de Groh, NASA Glenn Research Center

    Added Saturday, May 9, 2020 at 5:46 PM

    We watch space x launches on YouTube and I was wondering if NASA works to create space x ships and also if space x is part of NASA or standalone

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Mechanical
    Answers 1
    Kim de Groh, NASA Glenn Research Center
    Answered Thursday, July 9, 2020 at 3:13 PM
    Hi Kaitlyn,
    
    SpaceX is a commercial company, similar to Boeing (i.e. “standalone”).  NASA works closely with SpaceX in numerous ways.  As one example, SpaceX is under “contract” with NASA to provide cargo and human (astronaut) launches to the ...
  • Hayleigh Creps asked Crystal Harris, Northrop Grumman

    Added Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at 9:27 PM

    I really enjoy math and science, but I'm not the best at math. I hope to pursue a career in aerospace engineering with hopes of being an astronaut, but am afraid that I'm not good enough for the job. Are there any apps, websites, or groups that I could use to help me be successful? Or should I be looking for another major?

    Related to Aeronautical/Aerospace , Choosing a Degree, Difficult Classes, Engineering Skills, Math & Science, Preparation for College, Self Doubt
    Answers 1
    Crystal Harris, Northrop Grumman
    Answered Tuesday, April 21, 2020 at 5:49 PM
    Practice! Practice! Practice!  Fear is something to overcome and not part of you.