Do I have to have an aerospace engineering degree to become a flight test engineer?
I know I want to be a flight engineer, but I don't know what I should study in college to do so. Should I study aerospace engineering or is that entirely unnecessary? This question was posted by a CareerVillage administrator on behalf of the students of CareerVillage. #aviation #airline-industry #aerospace-engineering
4 answers
Kalyan C. Mutyala
Kalyan C.’s Answer
Hi Lisa,
Simple answer is yes. Aerospace engineering degree is definitely going to help you to understand various aspects of building, testing and operating a plane. An alternative choice is to pursue a mechanical engineering degree and take the some courses relevant to aerospace engineering (if the college has no major in aerospace engineering, you can still discuss with the faculty and choose the courses that are relevant).
Here, I want you to understand that, modern engineering is all about integrating mechanical, electrical, electronic and other devices with a software module that enables operating, controlling and diagnosing (repair/troubleshooting) quite easy for the engineer.
Building a better, safer, greener and faster planes in future depends on passionate persons like you. I really appreciate you for thinking about aerospace engineering and will be very happy to help you.
I wish you a very bright future filled with "flying colors".
Ha ha! I was going to say, "the simple answer is: no" and then answer pretty much what Mr. Mutyala did. So, various engineering degrees can teach you all the basics of engineering. I originally graduated as a Mechanical Engineer and then became an aircraft mechanic (A&P Mechanic) which was a great way to learn the specifics of aviation. Then I worked as an aerospace engineer.
Marcia Smith
Alain’s Answer
It would greatly help if you have a degree in Aerospace Engineering. Being a test flight engineer in today's aircraft is a must that you have suffecient knowledge in aerodynamics, mechanical, kinematics, electrical, electronics, digital, hydraulic, thermodynamics, structural and all of these is covered when you get an aerospace engineering degree.
peter’s Answer
I have been in, on and around airplanes for a few years. There is a difference between a Flight Test Engineer and a Flight Engineer. Since the '80s most big airplanes have been designing "out" Flight Engineers.
Most companies today require a BS degree just to open the door to discuss such a position. There are many exceptions - prior military experience, prior experience, etc. You would be surprised at some of the degrees held by some of the best Flight Test Engineers past and present. When it comes to flight test, there are many different roles and engineering sectors to make the entire processes complete, safe and credible. Finding yours will be the adventure of a life time.
It is not the paper you hanging on the wall, it is the person who earned it.
Ken’s Answer
Hi Lisa!
Here are sites that will give you some general information :
http://www.fit.edu/programs/8233/ms-flight-test-engineering#.VuWDa_krLtQ
http://www.boeing.com/careers/career-areas/test-engineering.page
http://www.edwards.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-131008-020.pdf
Send thank you notes to those who help you. Please keep me posted. I would like to follow your progress!!