The aerospace industry is both complex and exciting. Leading companies work on multi-government projects and global ecosystems. This has been touted as the Golden Age in this arena as new technologies are being brought into the field, for example, robotics and artificial intelligence. As a top graduate, you may be wondering what it takes to enter the aerospace industry. This guide has been compiled to provide an understanding of the discipline and the requirements for joining it.
The Scope of a Job in the Aerospace Industry
Aviation systems are subject to ongoing development. This starts with creating designs, evaluating their efficacy, and bringing about technological improvements for optimum results. Very high standards are set for the aerospace industry, and they apply to everyone from the suppliers of components, to aerospace distribution companies, to the engineers who come up with the original blueprints.
As huge projects are involved, those working in the industry must be proficient at meeting deadlines, managing human and other resources, staying within budget, and satisfying clients’ specifications and preferences.
Some of the aspects that fall within the scope of the job are research and development, project management, and administration. The field has two key areas to choose from. These are aeronautical and astronautical engineering.
Quality Standards in the Aerospace Industry
Whereas the ISO 9001 standard is applied in most industries, aerospace quality requirements are far more stringent and follow the as9100 conditions. A good question is, what is as9100? It involves internal and external assessments of quality. Auditing companies such as Ledge Inc are well placed to answer the question what is as9100, since they assist businesses working in aerospace to ensure compliance. Ledge Inc. has a team of experts whose combined experience exceeds 50 years in engineering, quality management systems, and manufacturing, and helping organizations with preparation and passing the checklists to be as9100 or ISO 9001 certified.
Quality in the aerospace industry is heavily controlled as lives are at stake, whether passengers are traveling by plane or into space. The USA has several bodies that provide this regulation, e.g., the Department of Defense, NASA, the Federal Aviation Authority, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Requirements for Entering the Aerospace Industry
The best way to secure a job in the aerospace industry is to embark on a fellowship or an apprenticeship. Although there is fierce competition for these slots, without some experience in the field, it is harder to obtain a position. If you are fortunate enough to be given this opportunity, you will gain valuable experience working with qualified experts such as managers, designers, and engineers.
You can increase your chances by having a better-than-average resume that preferably showcases your project management skills, exceptional performance in your studies, pertinent references, and a solid STEM grounding with proficiency in science, technology, math, and engineering. Successful background in engineering with another firm is a good recommendation. Other qualities you will need are creativity, intelligence, and initiative.
It is suggested that you research different aerospace companies to see which aspects of the industry they focus on and how this aligns with your professional interests. Their websites will indicate any vacancies that are available and what the specific job requirements are. You may need to start your career in another industry that uses similar skills until you are ready to be considered for an aerospace position.
If your heart is set on entering the aerospace industry take stock of your competencies and qualifications and map out a route to your perfect job.
