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I would like to start a business early.

I like physics and maths and I want to get into Aerospace Engineering.
#Aerospace engineering

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Subject: Career question for you

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Bill’s Answer

Francois, it is good you are starting early to think about starting your own business. It is more complicated than it may seem at first, but with a good start, you can do well.

Desiree's answer suggests a business plan. If you follow her advice, you will see that a business plan is multifaceted. There will be areas of expertise that you may need others to help you with, perhaps financing or market research, or statistics. So be open to getting support and advice.

Aerospace Engineering is often entered by working for someone else in a company well-respected for that discipline. The reason is that AE work depends on connections and reputation, both of which must be developed through experience. I would advise, say 5 years as an employee at an aerosapace company, before venturing out on your own. During that time, learn who are the doers and shakers in your company and the industry, and which competitors are NOT respected by other AEs or their company's customers. Avoid whatever causes disfavor.

During that 5 years, establish YOUR reputation as a go-to AE who gets things done and gets along with others. Become sensitive to areas in your business plan where you will need help, and look for others who may partner with you or counsel you on those areas. These folks may be found among coworkers, suppliers, customers, educators, mermbers of trade groups, state or local government business development agencies, and/or competitors.

Bill recommends the following next steps:

To get the best entry-level positions at established AE firms you need at least a BS degree in engineering. Go for that. When you are in charge of your own business, you will need the technical savvy you gain to sniff out good and bad employees, products, and customers. If this is not your cup of tea, plan on hiring an "Engineering Manager" for your firm to supply the initial technical smarts.
Many larger employers will sponsor continuing education for employees who convince them their education will help them on the job. They may pay all or part of your tuition. Investigate this. If this applies, go to the next step.
For a second degree, if you really plan to be the CEO of your own business, a MBA will be most helpful. It is usually looked upon favorably by a current employer as well.
When it comes time to sign papers and make commitments, hire a good business attorney to steer you out of legal traps and to word agreements to your benefit and to protect your legal rights.
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Desiree’s Answer

Good for you! I'd recommend you start with a business plan. You can find lots of information about how to develop a business plan on-line. You will have to do research for in your chosen field and figure out your business model (e.g., what you are selling to whom and for what purpose).

You might also research Aerospace entrepreneurs to understand their career paths and how they broke into the field.

It's rare to find an engineer that hasn't completed their formal education, so consider education as you plan for your business

Desiree recommends the following next steps:

Determine your proposed business model
Research how to develop a business plan, then prepare one for your proposed business.
Consider if you should pursue formal engineer/physics education to further your plan.
Research Aerospace entrepreneurs for inspiration and role models
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