Career Path | Description | Career Pathway | Universities Offering Undergraduate Programs |
Aerospace Engineer | Design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems and equipment. | Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering, followed by internships and specialization. | MIT, Stanford University, University of Cambridge, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) |
Drone Pilot/Operator | Operate and control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for various applications. | Certification programs in drone technology, UAV piloting, and aviation courses. | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, University of Southern California (USC), Purdue University |
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer | Oversee the maintenance, repair, and inspection of aircraft to ensure safe operation. | Bachelor’s in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, followed by licensing exams. | National Aviation University, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Cranfield University |
Flight Dynamics Analyst | Analyze and simulate the behavior of flight vehicles to optimize performance. | Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering, specialization in flight dynamics. | California Institute of Technology (Caltech), University of Toronto, University of Tokyo |
Aviation Safety Expert | Ensure safety protocols and regulations in aviation and aeronautics are followed. | Bachelor’s in Aviation Safety or related fields, with training in safety standards and regulations. | Florida Institute of Technology, University of North Dakota, University of Central Missouri |
Aerodynamics Engineer | Study and improve the aerodynamic properties of vehicles and structures. | Bachelor’s in Aerodynamics or Mechanical Engineering, followed by research or industry experience. | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Southampton, Delft University of Technology |
Avionics Engineer | Design and maintain electronic systems used in aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites. | Bachelor’s in Avionics or Electronics Engineering, with specialization in aviation systems. | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Cranfield University, University of Bristol |
Air Traffic Controller | Manage and control the movement of aircraft in the airspace and on the ground. | Bachelor’s in Air Traffic Management, with certification from aviation authorities. | Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, University of North Dakota, Coventry University |
Pilot (Commercial or Military) | Fly commercial aircraft or military jets, ensuring safe and efficient transport. | Bachelor’s in Aviation, along with flight training and necessary certifications. | Purdue University, University of North Dakota, United States Air Force Academy |
Space Scientist/Engineer | Research and develop technologies related to space exploration and satellite systems. | Bachelor’s in Space Sciences, followed by specialization in space technology or astrophysics. | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), University of Leicester, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) |