Aerospace and aeronautical engineering technology is a field that involves the design, construction and maintenance of planes and spacecraft. Aeronautical engineering technology deals with airplanes and other aircraft that stay within the earth’s atmosphere, while aerospace engineering technology covers both aircraft and spacecraft. With a degree in this field, you could become an aerospace technician, where you’d help engineers design and maintain aircraft and spacecraft.
As a technician in this field, your work would involve maintaining consoles, simulators and equipment used to position and monitor vehicles used in flight. Knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software would be necessary for these types of careers.
The path toward becoming an aeronautical or aerospace technician involves earning an undergraduate degree in aerospace technology, aviation technology or a related area. Many programs are available that carry accreditation from ABET Inc’s Technology Accreditation Commission. This accreditation ensures that the program you select meets the academic standards established for the profession.
Degree and certificate programs in aerospace technology, aeronautic studies, aeronautical engineering technology and related fields offer relevant training for a job in aerospace and aeronautical engineering technology. You can qualify for these positions with a certificate, though earning an associate’s or bachelor’s degree could improve your employment opportunities. Some schools also offer the option to minor in aerospace engineering technology.
The courses for these programs deal with such subjects as aircraft science, electrical systems and applied fluid mechanics. Through classroom and hands-on training, you’ll learn the skills needed to work as an aerospace technologist or technician. In such a role, you’d be responsible for using and maintaining equipment related to the design, maintenance and testing of airplanes and spacecraft.
