8 answers
Manuel
Student
1
Question
Updated
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Is the job aerospace engineering very limited in job opportunities?
I am a middle schooler in 8th grade and I was wondering if the career aerospace engineering is actually very limited in job opportunities. I’m very interested in engineering and physics and I was wondering what are some good classes to get into to study in university to prepare for this career.
Are there any other jobs so I could get some experience if I do end up getting an opportunity in the future.
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8 answers
Emily Anne
Manager, Technical Support
25
Answers
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hmm, aerospace engineering can be a specialized field, which means job opportunities may be more limited compared to broader engineering disciplines like mechanical or electrical engineering. However, I think the demand for aerospace engineers exists in specific sectors such as aircraft & spacecraft manufacturing, defense, government research agencies, etc. and increasingly, private space exploration companies. Aerospace engineering skills are also transferrable to related fields, such as automotive, energy, and electronics, which can offer additional career avenues.
If you are considering this field, it’s would be good to:
-Stay updated on industry trends (commercial space exploration, sustainable aviation, etc.)
-Build strong foundations in relevant technical skills (systems engineering, simulations, materials science, etc.)
-Network and obtain internships for real-world experience
-Be open to relocating, as opportunities can be concentrated in certain regions or countries
Hope this gives you an idea. Good luck!
If you are considering this field, it’s would be good to:
-Stay updated on industry trends (commercial space exploration, sustainable aviation, etc.)
-Build strong foundations in relevant technical skills (systems engineering, simulations, materials science, etc.)
-Network and obtain internships for real-world experience
-Be open to relocating, as opportunities can be concentrated in certain regions or countries
Hope this gives you an idea. Good luck!
Thank you for the advice.
Manuel
Olivia Parker, EIT
Outside Plant Engineering
1
Answer
Cornwall, New York
Updated
Olivia’s Answer
Hi Manuel! Maybe try looking into a more general field of engineering and minor in aerospace to broaden your horizon! Mechanical Engineering goes hand in hand with Aerospace by studying systems, fluids, propulsions and more! Since you're still young look into different clubs and programs or even summer camps involving your interests to start to meet people in this field to get a better idea of what you like about aerospace and what you want to learn more about it!
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1093
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Manuel,
I wouldn't think of aerospace engineering as limited in opportunities, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts above average growth. Aerospace engineering is one of the engineering flavors, but what you learn in this program is of course also applicable to other industries. If you look at the curriculum for mechanical and aerospace engineering, you'll find that there is a large overlap. If you want to broaden your appeal to future employers, you could study mechanical engineering instead. Aerospace companies employ all sorts of engineers anyway. And if you attend a university that has mechanical engineering as well as aerospace engineering, you can major in mechanical and take some aerospace courses as electives.
Now, if you want to work in the aerospace industry, you might have to move to where the job is. But even that is not as limiting as you might think. There are the major civil airline manufacturers, space and defense industries, government agencies, as well repair hubs for airlines. Nobody can predict if you will actually secure a job in the aerospace industry, but there are other opportunities as well that an engineering degree qualifies you for. If aerospace is your passion, don't limit yourself because of something you can't predict.
You can further improve your employability in aerospace by working on aerospace projects while you are in school and by securing internships early on.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/aerospace-engineers.htm
https://eng.umd.edu/careers/outcomes/aerospace
I wouldn't think of aerospace engineering as limited in opportunities, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts above average growth. Aerospace engineering is one of the engineering flavors, but what you learn in this program is of course also applicable to other industries. If you look at the curriculum for mechanical and aerospace engineering, you'll find that there is a large overlap. If you want to broaden your appeal to future employers, you could study mechanical engineering instead. Aerospace companies employ all sorts of engineers anyway. And if you attend a university that has mechanical engineering as well as aerospace engineering, you can major in mechanical and take some aerospace courses as electives.
Now, if you want to work in the aerospace industry, you might have to move to where the job is. But even that is not as limiting as you might think. There are the major civil airline manufacturers, space and defense industries, government agencies, as well repair hubs for airlines. Nobody can predict if you will actually secure a job in the aerospace industry, but there are other opportunities as well that an engineering degree qualifies you for. If aerospace is your passion, don't limit yourself because of something you can't predict.
You can further improve your employability in aerospace by working on aerospace projects while you are in school and by securing internships early on.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Leo McKenzie
Creative, Traditional & 3D Artist, Designer and Corp Executive.
17
Answers
Updated
Leo’s Answer
Hi Manuel,
No. It's more specialized and important -- which means more opportunity and more money. Many areas to look at:
* Boeing
* Lockheed
* Military (Spaceforce or Airforce)
* NASA
* SpaceX
* Your own firm
* Consulting
If you look at many initiatives that are being discussed now nationally, that's a field that's in demand. Go for it!
No. It's more specialized and important -- which means more opportunity and more money. Many areas to look at:
* Boeing
* Lockheed
* Military (Spaceforce or Airforce)
* NASA
* SpaceX
* Your own firm
* Consulting
If you look at many initiatives that are being discussed now nationally, that's a field that's in demand. Go for it!
Ashish Mishra
Build Internet Products
1
Answer
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Ashish’s Answer
Manuel, it's fantastic that you're thinking about this so early. The space industry is tough but very rewarding, and the skills you gain are useful in many areas like self-driving cars and healthcare.
While you're still in school, try joining clubs like robotics or rocketry. You can also work on small projects with drones, sensors, or coding in Python. The key is to complete projects and be able to share them.
If you enjoy engineering and physics, take classes like orbital mechanics or software engineering when you can. You can also watch free online university lectures. NASA and ESA offer many resources, and GitHub has open-source space software you can explore or even contribute to.
Learning by doing is the best approach. Try writing simple flight software, working with an FPGA, or coding in Python. Even small projects, like using a sensor on a microcontroller, will teach you a lot. Sharing your work online can help others see your skills.
Important skills in aerospace include embedded systems, FPGA, Python, Linux, and clear documentation and testing.
Looking at the bigger picture, space jobs are growing. Launch costs are decreasing, resources beyond Earth are becoming valuable, and the demand for satellites is increasing. Industries like autonomous driving also look for skills from the space sector. Keep learning and building, and you'll be ready when opportunities arise.
While you're still in school, try joining clubs like robotics or rocketry. You can also work on small projects with drones, sensors, or coding in Python. The key is to complete projects and be able to share them.
If you enjoy engineering and physics, take classes like orbital mechanics or software engineering when you can. You can also watch free online university lectures. NASA and ESA offer many resources, and GitHub has open-source space software you can explore or even contribute to.
Learning by doing is the best approach. Try writing simple flight software, working with an FPGA, or coding in Python. Even small projects, like using a sensor on a microcontroller, will teach you a lot. Sharing your work online can help others see your skills.
Important skills in aerospace include embedded systems, FPGA, Python, Linux, and clear documentation and testing.
Looking at the bigger picture, space jobs are growing. Launch costs are decreasing, resources beyond Earth are becoming valuable, and the demand for satellites is increasing. Industries like autonomous driving also look for skills from the space sector. Keep learning and building, and you'll be ready when opportunities arise.
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Since you’re in 8th grade and like engineering and physics, it’s good to start thinking about this now! Aerospace engineering is about designing airplanes, rockets, and spaceships. It is a special kind of engineering, so there might be fewer jobs compared to other types of engineering. But there are still good jobs, especially now with new space companies and drone technology growing fast.
To get ready for aerospace engineering, you should focus on math and science classes like physics, chemistry, and math (especially calculus) in high school. Learning computer skills and how to use design software is helpful too. In university, you will learn about how planes and rockets fly, materials, engines, and controls.
If you want more job chances or want to get experience, you can also look at jobs in mechanical or electrical engineering. These are similar and have more jobs available. You can try internships or work with companies that build robots, cars, or airplanes to learn useful skills.
In short, aerospace engineering is a cool job with some good opportunities, especially in space travel. Taking strong math and science classes now will help you later. Also, trying related engineering fields can give you more choices.
To get ready for aerospace engineering, you should focus on math and science classes like physics, chemistry, and math (especially calculus) in high school. Learning computer skills and how to use design software is helpful too. In university, you will learn about how planes and rockets fly, materials, engines, and controls.
If you want more job chances or want to get experience, you can also look at jobs in mechanical or electrical engineering. These are similar and have more jobs available. You can try internships or work with companies that build robots, cars, or airplanes to learn useful skills.
In short, aerospace engineering is a cool job with some good opportunities, especially in space travel. Taking strong math and science classes now will help you later. Also, trying related engineering fields can give you more choices.
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
520
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Aerospace engineering is a special and challenging field that requires dedication and effort, and you should be proud to pursue it. If you enjoy mathematics and physics, are fascinated by machinery, and have a passion for flight, this could be the perfect path for you. The key is to commit fully, earn your bachelor’s degree, attend your classes with courage, and not let fear or doubt hold you back. Aerospace engineering is multidisciplinary, combining mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science to design, build, and operate aircraft and spacecraft. Graduates can work in roles such as aerospace engineer, propulsion engineer, avionics engineer, control systems engineer, UAV or drone engineer, and research specialist, all focused on designing, testing, and improving aerospace systems.
Top employers include SpaceX, Blue Origin, Lockheed Martin, NASA, and companies specializing in satellite and drone technologies. Career opportunities span commercial aviation, defense, space exploration, urban air mobility, sustainable aviation, and even related sectors like automotive and energy. To support your learning, websites like NASA’s STEM portal and Khan Academy offer free tutorials in physics, engineering, and coding. YouTube channels such as Mark Rober, Smarter Every Day, and Real Engineering provide engaging content about aerospace concepts and challenges. Learning about Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) is also valuable, especially for work in avionics and spacecraft control systems.
Participating in robotics competitions like FIRST Robotics, science fairs, hackathons, and aerospace-focused challenges offers hands-on experience. You can explore local organizations to intern, volunteer, or work on real projects, and join clubs focused on rocketry, drones, or robotics to build practical skills and grow your network. LinkedIn and meetup groups help connect you with professionals, mentors, and peers early on. Organizations like the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and local aerospace clubs also welcome young enthusiasts and host events and workshops. Because aerospace engineering is so multidisciplinary, if your career path ever shifts, you can move into related fields like computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, or mechanical engineering. This makes you a multi-talented engineer with a broad, versatile skill set that opens many doors.
In my case, I graduated with a BSc in electrical engineering and spent six years working in aerospace, specifically in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) research, where I designed flight control systems. I worked as a Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) researcher, and during that time, the core tools I used included, C++, MATLAB, Python, and embedded systems. These programming and system development skills naturally led me to shift into computer science and software engineering. Because of the multidisciplinary nature of aerospace engineering, the transition was smooth and allowed me to continue working on challenging, innovative technologies in a different domain. My experience is proof that if you build strong foundations and gain real-world experience, your career options will remain wide and flexible, even beyond aerospace.
Top employers include SpaceX, Blue Origin, Lockheed Martin, NASA, and companies specializing in satellite and drone technologies. Career opportunities span commercial aviation, defense, space exploration, urban air mobility, sustainable aviation, and even related sectors like automotive and energy. To support your learning, websites like NASA’s STEM portal and Khan Academy offer free tutorials in physics, engineering, and coding. YouTube channels such as Mark Rober, Smarter Every Day, and Real Engineering provide engaging content about aerospace concepts and challenges. Learning about Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) is also valuable, especially for work in avionics and spacecraft control systems.
Participating in robotics competitions like FIRST Robotics, science fairs, hackathons, and aerospace-focused challenges offers hands-on experience. You can explore local organizations to intern, volunteer, or work on real projects, and join clubs focused on rocketry, drones, or robotics to build practical skills and grow your network. LinkedIn and meetup groups help connect you with professionals, mentors, and peers early on. Organizations like the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and local aerospace clubs also welcome young enthusiasts and host events and workshops. Because aerospace engineering is so multidisciplinary, if your career path ever shifts, you can move into related fields like computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, or mechanical engineering. This makes you a multi-talented engineer with a broad, versatile skill set that opens many doors.
In my case, I graduated with a BSc in electrical engineering and spent six years working in aerospace, specifically in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) research, where I designed flight control systems. I worked as a Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) researcher, and during that time, the core tools I used included, C++, MATLAB, Python, and embedded systems. These programming and system development skills naturally led me to shift into computer science and software engineering. Because of the multidisciplinary nature of aerospace engineering, the transition was smooth and allowed me to continue working on challenging, innovative technologies in a different domain. My experience is proof that if you build strong foundations and gain real-world experience, your career options will remain wide and flexible, even beyond aerospace.
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Manuel
Jamie Mathews
Construction and Engineering Administration
34
Answers
Fort Worth, Texas
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
Even specialized as an aerospace engineer you're going to pick up a long list of basic engineering and design principals along the path. Even if the aerospace market were to have issues at entry level employment you'll have other skills in basic mechanical and electrical engineering to fall back on. As you move forward keep your objective in mind as you pick activities in school and after school. The answers provided give really good suggestions on how to forge ahead.