How To Become An Aviation Engineer

If you have a good head for academic work, have the passion for spacecraft and aircraft, and want to be involved in the technology behind them - then an aviation engineer career might be something you should look into. Amongst the many professions, why choose to be an aviation engineer?

Did you you know that the aviation engineering industry has a shortage of professional and expert people? Add to that the fact that the UK has a reputation for excellence in the aviation technologies, second only to the US. These are only two of the many great things an aviation engineer can look forward to.

What Does An Aviation Engineer Do?

An aviation engineer is a specialist in the research and development, design, manufacture, and innovation of existing and new aviation components. The entire procedure of building an airplane, or any aircraft for that matter, is very complicated and tedious as it involves different fields of engineering. Aside from that, the maintenance, testing, and repair also have to be put into consideration. These are the very reasons an aviation engineer career requires high standards and requirements.

What Are The Requirements To Become An Aviation Engineer?
You will need a degree in:

- Aerospace or aeronautical engineering,

- Air transport or avionics engineering, or

- A foundation degree - BTEC HNC/HND (Business & Technology Education Council Higher National Certificates or Higher National Diplomas)

There are some companies that qualify graduates of:

- Math

- Software engineering

- Physics and applied physics

- Product or manufacturing engineering

- Mechanical engineering

- Electronic or electrical engineering

Choosing An Aviation Engineer Specialist Area

To become a competitive aviation engineer, a specialist area is ideal. These specialist areas include: flight simulation, flight test, avionics, fuel systems, materials and structures, stress engineering, aerodynamics, amongst others.

After university, relevant work experience is essential to help you discover and decide on a field to specialise in as an aviation engineer. This is where graduate programmes and apprenticeships come in most handy.

Graduate Programmes

Graduate programmes are a great way for you to learn more about the different departments in the field of aviation engineering, and find the aviation engineer specialist role that fits your skills. You can take advantage of graduate programmes which are normally run by major aerospace companies. During the programme, you will get the feel of how the business operates, and how specialist aviation engineers work in different departments.

In other smaller companies, you can have a more in-depth knowledge of how aviation engineering works through the on-the-job training that they offer. This is the perfect time for you to glean insights from experienced and professional aviation engineers.

Graduate programmes normally begin in September each year, but will already be filled by early Spring (since the recruitment is normally done a year before). It is best if you can get your CV and cover letter ready, and send them to potential companies as early as possible. Most of these companies use online application forms to screen aviation engineer candidates, so it should not be too much of a hassle for you.

Apprenticeships

Another way to get into the aviation engineer career (with a specialist area) is to start off as an aerospace technician apprentice with major aerospace companies - including airline manufacturers, airline operators, or service engineering companies. Such companies offer a hands-on role to an aviation engineer looking to gain more relevant work experience.

Here, you can become more skilled in different aviation components such as electrical systems, engines, and landing gear. The most interesting part about being an aviation engineer apprentice is that you not only gain practical experience, but get paid as well.

Over time, you can move up the ladder and become a senior aviation engineer specialist yourself - depending on the aviation engineering field you excel in and wish to pursue as a career. Whether you are an aviation engineer who specialises in the development, manufacturing or project management - your skills and achievements will always be recognised in the world of aviation engineering.

Editor's Note: If you are interested in a career in aviation, why not visit a specialist recruitment company like Alecto Recruitment. See more at http://www.alectorecruitment.com