Defense Industry - BSEE - Guidance Needed

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the safety and job security of entering the defense industry after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE). Participants explore the implications of working in a sector primarily funded by government contracts, particularly in the context of the economic climate in 2009.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the notion of safety in the defense industry, prompting others to clarify what is meant by "safe."
  • Another participant humorously suggests that the job is not dangerous in a physical sense, but acknowledges the overall uncertainty in job security across all sectors due to the recession.
  • Concerns are raised about the reliance on government funding, which can fluctuate, impacting job security in the defense sector.
  • Some participants note that the aging workforce in defense may mitigate layoffs, as retirements could create openings.
  • There is a reminder of the broader economic challenges, including layoffs in other engineering fields, which could increase competition for jobs.
  • A participant expresses confidence in their decision to accept a job offer, indicating a positive outlook on working in aerospace.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express mixed views on job security in the defense industry. While some highlight potential stability due to government spending and retirements, others emphasize the risks associated with economic downturns and competition from other sectors. No consensus is reached regarding the overall safety of entering the industry.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects uncertainties regarding job security tied to government funding and economic conditions, as well as the implications of competition from other engineering sectors. Specific assumptions about the stability of the defense industry and the impact of retirements are not fully explored.

HD555
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Is it safe to enter the defense industry after I graduate in May 2009 with a BSEE?

I already have accepted a job with a major defense company in California. They do work mostly on radar/sonar/surveillance/missile defense.
 
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Safe? In what way?
 
They're not going to send people to hunt you down and kill you! Well, probably not, anyway... :smile:

I hesitate to say *any* job is safe right now, but this is probably as safe as it gets. The government wants to spend more than usual right now since we're in recession, so I doubt if there will be any short-term defense cutbacks.
 
The defense industry is always risky since most of the money comes from government funding which varies year to year. It may be difficult to get a job with good job security unless you manage to get a federal position.
 
Another good thing about defense right now is that there are a lot of people of retirement age. That should take up some of the lay off slack that is coming.
 
but remember there's ton of layoffs from other engineering companies right now. The economy is doing bad, so there will be tons of competition for those jobs
 
RasslinGod said:
but remember there's ton of layoffs from other engineering companies right now. The economy is doing bad, so there will be tons of competition for those jobs

Well, I've already been accepted and signed an offer with the company.
 
HD555 said:
Well, I've already been accepted and signed an offer with the company.

Good. You'll enjoy aerospace. It is fun.
 

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