Career Space Bound

A career in aerospace engineering will see you working with cutting-edge technology in top-notch space agencies like ISRO, NASA, ESA and more…

In simple terms, Aerospace Engineering is the study of the complex materials and structures that are put to use under atmospheric test such as aircrafts, spacecrafts, missiles and other airborne objects. And to manufacture all these and implement them you require highly trained engineers, scientists and technicians specializing in areas such as aerospace, aeronautics, electronics, computer science, robotics, chemistry, physics and meteorology. In short, Aerospace Engineers are engaged in high tech fields such as manufacturing of aircrafts for commercial or military use, space research and spacecraft production.

Job Profile

The primary job of an Aerospace Engineer is to design, create prototypes of these designs, and finally test them. The work may also involve evaluating designs of other engineers to make sure that the idea meets certain ethical, safety, and environmental standards. Overlooking building process as well, ensuring that proper deadlines are met is also part of work of an Aerospace Engineer. Typically, an Aerospace Engineers specializes in either aeronautical or astronautical design, which will determine whether they work with aircraft or spacecraft.

Work Demands

Using high-end computers and sophisticated programs, an Aerospace Engineer spends much time in an office setting. At times, you might find an Aerospace Engineer working in a manufacturing environment to oversee the construction and implementation of a design. Aerospace Engineers work full-time on regular basis. However, managing larger projects can require overtime hours, particularly when deadlines are approaching. Also working at the forefront of technology makes long career breaks difficult, as they need to keep up-todate with industry developments.

Skills Above average intelligence

• Excellent academic background
• Responsible attitude
• Ability to put in long work hours and days in crucial assignments
• Good analytical ability
• Scientific acumen
• Ability to undertake challenging assignments

Qualification

Students who want to build their career as Aeronautic Engineers are advised to prepare for the career path well in advance by focusing on science and mathematics in high school. Students who have successfully completed 12th or equivalent with PCM/ PCB are eligible to apply for the entrance exam for Aeronautical Engineering for B. Tech. course. The minimum percentage required for it is 60% for most of the entrance examinations. They could also go in for post graduate and doctoral studies in the particular field of interest.

Institutions offering courses Aeronautical Engineering

• Indian Institute of Aeronautical Engineering, Dehradun
• Indian Institute for Aeronautical Engineering and Information Technology, Pune
• Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal
• Rajasthan Institute of Technology and Engineering Science, Kota
• The Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

Future Prospects

Mostly Aeronautical Engineers get jobs at automobile or power companies, where the principles of turbines or engines come into play. Companies like BHEL, L& T, Tata Power etc. can hire aeronautical engineers. But yes, if you’re seeking purely aerospace jobs, then try to apply at ISRO, which is one of the worlds top space agencies. You can also seek jobs at DRDO (makes missiles and fighter jets), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) or National Aeronautics Limited (NAL). However, bagging a job at either ISRO or DRDO is extremely competitive because the positions are few and there would be many applicants.

-Team ScienceNow Digital