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Aeronautical Engineer - Personal requirements

Mataaro Whakahaere Pūkaha Rererangi

Skills & knowledge

Aeronautical engineers need to have:

knowledge of aircraft structures and engine systems
a good understanding of aerodynamics (how aircraft fly) and thermodynamics (the effects of heat on aircraft)
knowledge of design techniques and engineering principles
an understanding of mechanical processes and the metals and alloys used in aircraft
knowledge of civil aviation laws and regulations
the ability to explain complicated ideas in simple language for report writing or to express design plans to aircraft engineers and technicians
analytical and problem-solving skills
mathematical and computer-aided design (CAD) skills.

"Every two months we see a plane roll out the door and usually the work is very project oriented. You'll be given a task and you'll have to come up with a solution or design something new, so there is always a start and an end to it."

Marty Witt - Aeronautical Design Engineer

Personal Qualities

Aeronautical engineers need to be confident, adaptable, creative, practical and accurate. They also need to be able to work well under pressure and make good decisions.

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Updated September 2009

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