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How would I be able to work for nasa ?

Hi I’m 13 years old and I have a question . I have a friend that wants to join nasa and she wondered what was the required standards of education

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To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

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Doc’s Answer

Elias you can tell your friend that they'll need to earn a bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited university in order to become an engineer at NASA. There are many different types of engineering, so you will need to choose a specialization that aligns with the type of work you want to do. Here are a few examples of the types of engineers that are employed by NASA.

• AEROSPACE ENGINEERS - Engineers who design, construct, and test aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft.
• COMPUTER HARDWARE ENGINEERS - Hardware engineers research, design, develop, and test computer systems and equipment that are used to measure activity in outer space or on Earth.
• ELECTRONIC ENGINEERS - Electronics engineers focus on specific equipment, like instrument panels in aircraft and spacecraft.
• MECHANICAL ENGINEERS - These engineers often partner with other workers to create products that support space missions.

NASA has a wide range of job opportunities, including positions in science, engineering, administration, and more. The qualifications for these jobs vary depending on the position. For example, jobs in scientific research may require advanced degrees in a specific field, while administrative positions may only require a college degree and relevant work experience. Additionally, NASA requires that all employees pass a background check and meet certain physical and medical requirements. It is recommended to check specific job postings on NASA's career website to see the specific qualifications and requirements for a certain position.

I hope this will be helpful for your friend Elias
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for the advice. Elias
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hey Elias!

So, you're interested in joining the ranks of NASA? That's fantastic! Let's dive into what you'll need to do to turn this dream into a reality.

First up, education! NASA values a solid foundation in learning. Typically, you'll need a bachelor's degree in a field like engineering, computer science, physics, math, or aeronautics. Some roles might need you to go a step further with a master’s or even a Ph.D. The key here is to focus on subjects that are all about space - think astrophysics, aerospace engineering, or planetary science.

Next, let's talk about grades. They matter! Keeping your academic performance high is super important. Aim to excel in your studies and get involved in STEM-related extracurricular activities. Science fairs, robotics clubs, or coding competitions are great ways to show your dedication and passion.

Experience is a big plus too. While studying, try to get some real-world experience in the space exploration field. Internships or research opportunities at NASA centers or similar organizations can give you a taste of what it's like to work in this exciting industry.

Technical skills are a must-have. NASA loves people who are tech-savvy. Concentrate on honing skills like programming languages (Python, C++, etc.), data analysis, computer-aided design (CAD), robotics, and systems engineering. These will come in handy in many roles at NASA.

Networking is key. Making connections in the industry can really boost your chances of landing a job at NASA. Attend events like conferences, workshops, and seminars about space exploration and meet professionals in the field. Joining organizations like the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) can help you meet experts and potential mentors.

Don't forget about NASA's internships! They offer programs for students at various educational levels. These internships give you a real feel for the work environment at NASA. Keep an eye on their Internships website (intern.nasa.gov) for updates on opportunities and when to apply.

Stay on top of job opportunities. Regularly check the NASA Careers website (www.nasa.gov/careers) for openings that match your skills and interests. Make sure your resume and cover letter highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Remember, getting a job at NASA is competitive, so be prepared!

Lastly, some roles at NASA might need a security clearance because of the sensitive nature of the work. This process involves a thorough background check, including a review of your personal, criminal, and financial records.

Remember, working at NASA is a big deal, and it requires dedication, perseverance, and a love of learning. Stay up-to-date with the latest in space exploration, follow NASA’s missions and projects, and never stop fueling your passion for space science.

Here are some top resources you might find helpful:

- NASA - Official website of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
- NASA Careers - The official careers page of NASA.
- American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) - Professional organization dedicated to aerospace engineering.
- intern.nasa.gov - Website providing information about internships at NASA.
- ScienceDirect - A leading full-text scientific database offering articles from various scientific journals related to space exploration and related fields.

Keep reaching for the stars, Elias!
James.
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Olivia’s Answer

Isn't NASA awesome?! Some of my favorite memories from your age were watching the space shuttles take off and land. In addition to Doc's answers regarding engineering, NASA has openings in a wide variety of jobs. For example, if you friend doesn't like math or science as much, she can still help in a project manager, finance, or marketing role. If she does likes science, but not engineering she may want to consider studying physics or chemistry. Astronauts and engineers often take the spotlight in space exploration, but there are entire teams of individuals working behind the scenes to help reach new frontiers.
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