Introduction to Air Force Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace engineering is a highly specialized field that involves the design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. As an aerospace engineer in the Air Force, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of military aircraft and spacecraft. In this article, we will explore the 7 ways to become an Air Force aerospace engineer.
Meet the Basic Requirements
To become an Air Force aerospace engineer, you must meet the basic requirements set by the Air Force. These requirements include:
- Being a U.S. citizen
- Being between the ages of 17 and 39
- Having a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics)
- Having a minimum GPA of 2.5
- Passing the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT)
- Completing a background investigation
- Meeting the physical requirements for Air Force officers
🚀 Note: The Air Force has strict requirements for its officers, so make sure you meet all the qualifications before applying.
Earn a Bachelor's Degree in a STEM Field
A bachelor’s degree in a STEM field is required to become an Air Force aerospace engineer. Some of the most relevant fields for aerospace engineering include:
- Aerospace engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Computer science
- Physics
- Mathematics
Make sure to choose a program that is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Gain Relevant Experience
Gaining relevant experience in the field of aerospace engineering can be beneficial in becoming an Air Force aerospace engineer. You can gain experience through:
- Internships with aerospace companies or government agencies
- Co-op programs with universities
- Research projects with professors or industry professionals
- Participation in engineering competitions or hackathons
🎯 Note: Having relevant experience can give you an edge in the application process, so try to gain as much experience as possible.
Complete Officer Training School (OTS)
Once you have been accepted into the Air Force, you will need to complete Officer Training School (OTS). OTS is a 12-week program that teaches you the skills and knowledge needed to become an Air Force officer.
Attend Aerospace Engineering School
After completing OTS, you will need to attend Aerospace Engineering School. This school teaches you the specific skills and knowledge needed to become an aerospace engineer in the Air Force.
Get Certified
Getting certified as a professional engineer (PE) can be beneficial in becoming an Air Force aerospace engineer. To become a PE, you need to:
- Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
- Gain 4-8 years of experience in the field
- Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam
📝 Note: Certification is not required, but it can give you an edge in the application process.
Network and Build Relationships
Networking and building relationships with current or former Air Force aerospace engineers can be beneficial in becoming an Air Force aerospace engineer. You can network through:
- Attending industry conferences or events
- Joining professional organizations or societies
- Connecting with current or former Air Force aerospace engineers on LinkedIn
💬 Note: Building relationships with current or former Air Force aerospace engineers can give you valuable insights and advice.
What is the average salary for an Air Force aerospace engineer?
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The average salary for an Air Force aerospace engineer is around $100,000 per year.
How long does it take to become an Air Force aerospace engineer?
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It typically takes around 5-7 years to become an Air Force aerospace engineer, including education and training.
What are the physical requirements for Air Force officers?
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Air Force officers must meet strict physical requirements, including passing a physical fitness test and meeting body fat percentage standards.
In summary, becoming an Air Force aerospace engineer requires a combination of education, experience, and training. By following these 7 steps, you can increase your chances of becoming an Air Force aerospace engineer and pursuing a rewarding career in this field.
