How to Become an Aerospace Engineer?
Your guide to becoming an aerospace engineer, from eligibility criteria and entrance exams to career opportunities and top colleges.
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Aerospace Engineer
"To become an aerospace engineer, you must blend a passion for exploration with a strong foundation in science and mathematics. It's about turning the impossible into possible." — Dr. Neil Armstrong
Ever looked up at the sky and wondered what makes airplanes soar or rockets reach the stars? Then the question that should come to the mind is how to become an aeronautical engineer? If you have, then aerospace engineering might just be your calling. From designing cutting-edge aircraft to pioneering space exploration, aerospace engineers are at the forefront of technological advancements. But how do you become an aerospace engineer? This guide will take you through the essential steps, qualifications, and opportunities in this thrilling field.
Steps to Become an Aerospace Engineer:
Getting on a career as an aerospace engineer requires a mix of education, skills, and enthusiasm. Follow this step-by-step guide to start your thrilling journey in the aerospace field.
Step-1
Focus on Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) in high school to form a strong base for aerospace engineering.
Step-2
Enroll in a Bachelor’s degree program in Aerospace Engineering or a related field and also there are other best courses after 12th.
Step-3
Pass necessary entrance exams like JEE Main and JEE Advanced for admission to top engineering colleges.
Step-4
Participate in internships and cooperative education programs for hands-on experience.
Step-5
Cultivate technical skills like CAD proficiency and soft skills such as effective communication and problem-solving.
Step-6
Keep up with the latest advancements and technologies in aerospace engineering through continuous learning.
Step-7
Apply for jobs in aerospace companies or research institutions and continuously upgrade your skills to stay competitive.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | At least 50% aggregate marks in 12th grade from a recognized board |
| Educational Background | Completion of 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) |
| Undergraduate Degree | Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field |
| Postgraduate Degree | Master’s degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering for advanced roles |
| Entrance Exams | JEE Main, JEE Advanced, or various state-level engineering entrance exams |
- Candidates must have at least 50% aggregate in 12th grade from recognized boards like PUC, CBSE, ICSE, etc. The science stream is essential for pursuing a science degree.
- Valid scores in entrance exam after 12th such as JEE-Main, KIITEE, SRMJEE, CEE, HITSEE, CET, etc., are required. Colleges like NMIMS, Symbiosis, XUB, Andhra University, LPU, and state-specific exams also accept their entrance tests.
- B.Sc/B. Tech degree or Diploma is essential for becoming an Aerospace Engineer.
- An M.Tech in Aerospace Engineering is beneficial for advanced studies and career opportunities.
Not eligible to pursue this career?
Find out different career options based on your current academic accomplishments. Enquire with our career experts and build a roadmap to your career success!
Tasks to perform as an Aerospace Engineer:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Aerospace engineers need a diverse set of competencies to excel in their roles. Below are the essential knowledge areas and skill sets required for success in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Understanding of airflow over aircraft surfaces | Principles of flight dynamics and control systems |
| Knowledge of engines and power systems for aircraft and spacecraft | Understanding of electronic systems used in aircraft, including navigation, communication, and instrumentation. |
| Manual Dexterity | Holistic Health Approach |
| Study of materials used in aerospace structures | Techniques for analyzing and designing aerospace structures to ensure safety and performance |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Analytical Skills | Technical Skills |
| Communication Skills | Project Management |
| Adaptability | Leadership |
| Ethical and Professional Responsibility | Problem-Solving Skills |
The Knowlegde and Skills don't intrigue you?
The reason is that your interests don't align with this career. Identify your interests and match them with careers that require those skills. This alignment will help you grow and succeed in your career faster than you might expect!
Job Roles Offered for an Aerospace Engineer:
Once you become an Aerospace Engineer, a wide range of opportunities opens up. You can pursue projects within aerospace and explore other fields as well.
CAD Technicians use software to design instruments, buildings, vehicles, and more, starting from conceptual ideas to digital projections of the final product.
This involves gathering detailed company information to provide unbiased assessments of earnings, competition, and overall company health, aiding investors and stakeholders.
Aerospace engineers create spacecraft for space travel, ensuring they can withstand extreme conditions during launch and re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.
These engineers ensure equipment reliability and efficiency by applying engineering principles, meeting the growing demand for maintenance expertise.
Astronauts perform various roles aboard space stations, from piloting spacecraft to managing supplies and communications with headquarters.
Not sure where you fit in?
With the wide variety of careers and job roles available, pinpointing the best option for you can be challenging. Thorough analysis and dedicated sessions can provide clarity on what to study, which industry and role to pursue, and the most suitable career path to follow.
Career Opportunities for an Aerospace Engineer:
Aerospace engineers can pursue diverse career paths with the companies listed below:
| HAL(Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) | Bhramos Aerospace | Indian Airforce and Navy |
| Catia | Ansys | Mercedes Benz Aerospace |
| GKN Aerospace | Air India | DRDO(Defense Research and Development Organization) |
| Boeing | GE Aerospace | ISRO(Indian Space Research Organization) |
Colleges Offering Courses in Aerospace Engineering:
| Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal | Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay |
| BMS College of Engineering, Bangalore | Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur |
| Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra | SRM Institute of Science & Technology, Chennai |
| RV College of Engineering, Bangalore | MS Ramaiah Institute of Applied Sciences, Bangalore |
| Amity School of Engineering, Noida | Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai |
| Shanmugha Arts Science Technology Research and Academy, Thanjavur |
End Note
Becoming an aerospace engineer is a challenging yet rewarding journey that combines passion with technical expertise. Whether you're fascinated by aircraft or inspired by space exploration, this career offers limitless possibilities. Connect with SetMyCareer for Career counselling after graduation, get expert guidance, and achieve your career goals in aerospace engineering. Reach out to us today and start your journey towards the stars!
In this Career Outline
Get In Touch
No. 14/595, 1st Floor, Nanjappa Reddy Layout, Koramangala 8th Block, Bangalore 560095