Career Overview

Aerospace engineers design, build, test, and improve aircraft, rockets, satellites, spacecraft, and other systems used in flight and space exploration. They use science, mathematics, technology, and engineering principles to solve complex problems and develop vehicles capable of traveling through Earth's atmosphere and beyond.

From designing the next generation of rockets to helping spacecraft reach distant planets, aerospace engineers play a major role in advancing exploration and innovation.

Projects and Tasks can include…

  • Designing rockets and spacecraft

  • Developing satellites and communication systems

  • Testing aircraft performance

  • Improving fuel efficiency

  • Analyzing flight data

  • Solving engineering challenges

  • Creating computer models and simulations

  • Ensuring vehicles operate safely

Many aerospace engineers work on teams where they collaborate with scientists, software engineers, technicians, and mission planners.

STEM CONNECTIONS

Mathematics

Aerospace engineers use math to calculate speed, acceleration, trajectories, fuel consumption, and structural loads.

Science

Engineers apply physics concepts such as forces, motion, gravity, energy, and aerodynamics to understand how vehicles move and operate.

Technology

Computer software, simulations, coding, and data analysis tools help engineers test designs and solve problems.

Engineering

Engineers follow the design process to create, test, improve, and refine aerospace systems.

Skills and Education

Skills That Help Aerospace Engineers Succeed

  • Problem-solving

  • Critical thinking

  • Creativity

  • Communication

  • Teamwork

  • Attention to detail

  • Coding and computer modeling

  • Mathematics and physics

Educational Pathway

High School

Helpful courses include:

  • Algebra

  • Geometry

  • Algebra II

  • Precalculus

  • Physics

  • Computer Science

  • Engineering courses

College

Most aerospace engineers earn a bachelor's degree in:

  • Aerospace Engineering

  • Mechanical Engineering

  • Engineering Physics

Some engineers continue their education through graduate programs and research opportunities.