Expert: Paul Soderman - 9/15/2009

Question
Hi Paul, I am doing a technical writing assignment in my Sophomore Principles of Engineering course and one of the tasks is to ask or e-mail a professional working in the field of Aerospace Engineering, so I have a few questions that I would like to ask.

On a typical day, do you work in an office or are you in a different working environment?

What types of college courses or programs did you take to become a Aerospace Engineer?

What kind of preparation outside of school must a person take to become a engineer?

Around how much does a Aerospace Engineer make in a year?

Thanks for your time,
Kyle

Answer
Kyle
I am retired now, save for a little consulting work, but when I was at NASA I worked in various environments:  my office, the lab which contained work stations and experimental facilities, the wind tunnels, outdoor engine test stands, and outdoor aircraft flyover spaces.  I spent most of my time in the office or lab.

To become an Aerospace Engineer you must earn a bachelor's degree or more from a certified engineering school in the fields of aeronautical or mechanical engineering.  The courses I took were obviously heavy in math and science such as calculus, trigonometry, algebra, geometry, differential equations (ordinary and partial), complex variables, Newtonian and modern physics, chemistry (inorganic and organic), electrical theory, fluid mechanics, gas dynamics, dynamics, strength of materials, thermodynamics, elasticity, aerodynamics, mechanical design, aircraft structures, propulsion, stability and control, computer coding, and many more including liberal arts, English, economics, history, business etc.

None, although job experience or internship is a plus.

Salaries vary a lot depending on company and location, experience, education, etc.  You can find that information on line.  I assume starting salaries are around $60,000 and move up to $100,000 and more in time.
Paul