The Aerospace Engineering is a discipline of the engineering and technology sector. Nowadays it is one of the most valued professions for the role it plays in terms of economic and social development in the world.
What does an aeronautical engineer do?
The aeronautical engineer is the professional responsible for the design, control and manufacture of technological systems and equipment, capable of flying, such as aircraft, missiles or space equipment used by astronauts to carry out their missions.
Some aerospace engineering technicians are involved in researching and designing new aircraft or improving existing ones.
Professionals working in this field are trying to find new ways to solve the engineering problems facing the aviation industry.
They often translate their ideas with the help of computer aided design (CAD) or specialized manufacturing software (CAM).
The aerospace engineers also perform aircraft maintenance checks between flights, a task known as “line maintenance”.
Once the aircraft has completed a certain number of hours of flight, it is transferred to the maintenance base, to undergo more specific tests and to diagnose and repair faults, a job that takes place in the hangar.
Where to work
The Aerospace Engineering is highly valued in industries and companies. Industry professionals can work in public or private organizations such as airlines, consultants, aircraft manufacturing companies, air navigation companies, among others.
There is also a demand for specialized engineers in this area by manufacturers of parts, components and systems and in aircraft maintenance companies.
Differences between aerospace and aeronautical engineering
It is important to note that aeronautical engineering is a different profession than aerospace engineering (many people confuse the two).
While aeronautical engineering studies and specializes in objects that fly in the Earth’s atmosphere, aerospace engineering in addition to studying objects that fly inside the Earth’s atmosphere also studies and specializes in objects that fly outside the Earth’s atmosphere such as missiles, satellites and spaceships.
What are the characteristics necessary to be an aeronautical engineer?
To be successful in aeronautical engineering it is necessary to have solid knowledge and certain professional skills.
The profession requires skills in calculating, designing, drafting construction sketches and modifying parts that can be optimized. Requires knowledge of aerodynamics and mechanical engineering. Both theoretical mathematics and equations of motion are indispensable in space flight.
The aeronautical engineer must have a great ability to concentrate and to read technical information. Have a strong sense of responsibility and a logical and methodical approach to problem solving.
As for studies to become an aeronautical engineer, it should be borne in mind that in addition to university education, depending on the scope of specialization, there may be a need to complement training with more specific courses in the sector.
