would like to get into aircraft engineering. where to start?

Nodiggidy123 · 28 Apr 2016 at 11:25

hi all.

i am looking to incease my earnings potential and would like to become a aircraft propulsion engineer.

unfortuantely i am to old to join the RAF (35)

i currently work for a tool hire company and have a basic knowledge of mechanics and electrics.

qualifications wise i only have GSCE'S and a GNVQ which is all but worthless.

what qualifications should i be looking to get in order to get my foot in the door with aerospace firms?

Dis86 · 28 Apr 2016 at 20:51

Normally at least a degree in something like Mechanical Engineering. Failing that hands on experience in a technical role.

Why something so specific as aircraft propulsion (not a criticism, just curious!).

Stealthploit · 28 Apr 2016 at 20:54

think you would need a degree in aeronautical engineering

Kenai · 29 Apr 2016 at 08:14

A degree in mech or aero pretty much, given you're probably a bit past the curve to be able to do some sort of apprenticeship and still afford to live.

If you mean a maintenance technician or similar though, rather than an engineer, then that's different but I don't know where you'd start with that.

radderfire · 29 Apr 2016 at 09:29

Nodiggidy123 said:
i am looking to incease my earnings potential and would like to become a aircraft propulsion engineer.

Exactly what do you mean by this? I assume you mean an aircraft fitter role where you look after the maintenance of the engines?

If so, then it will be a case of studying for the relevant aircraft fitter qualification. I would imagine if you were younger it would be easier to get some kind of sponsorship or apprenticeship to do this. At your age I would guess it would probably involve self funded study. Once you've got the qualification, employment prospects would be good.

Nodiggidy123 · 29 Apr 2016 at 13:54

Dis86 said:
Normally at least a degree in something like Mechanical Engineering. Failing that hands on experience in a technical role.

Why something so specific as aircraft propulsion (not a criticism, just curious!).

To be fair, its a toss up between marine or aircraft. i love working on engines at work and ive always been interested in aviation, i know i could have a very good career in aerospace.

Kenai · 29 Apr 2016 at 14:54

Sounds more like you're looking at jobs as a mechanic / engineering technician rather than as an engineer, which likely won't need a degree but will instead have dedicated training schemes and courses, maybe HNCs

Diddums · 29 Apr 2016 at 15:37

Give Tefal a nudge, he is a technician for one of the big guns, probably a decent place to start.

Nodiggidy123 · 29 Apr 2016 at 20:05

Thanks guys

Abraxaz1 · 2 May 2016 at 20:06

Apprenticeship, no upper age limits these days. Would be my guess

Paul_RD · 24 Jun 2020 at 12:38

Nodiggidy123 said:
hi all.

i am looking to incease my earnings potential and would like to become a aircraft propulsion engineer.

unfortuantely i am to old to join the RAF (35)

i currently work for a tool hire company and have a basic knowledge of mechanics and electrics.

qualifications wise i only have GSCE'S and a GNVQ which is all but worthless.

what qualifications should i be looking to get in order to get my foot in the door with aerospace firms?

I know you posted this over four years ago (long before I was a forum member) but did you ever get into aircraft engineering?