Mechanical or Aerospace engineering?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the choice between pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering (ME) or aerospace engineering (AE) for a high school senior interested in the aerospace industry. Participants explore the similarities and differences between the two fields, the job market implications, and personal experiences related to both disciplines.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that aerospace engineering is a specialized branch of mechanical engineering, with both fields sharing fundamental principles like fluid mechanics and thermodynamics.
  • Others argue that while mechanical engineers can perform aerospace-related jobs, aerospace engineers may still be preferred for specific roles in the aerospace industry.
  • A few participants mention that the curricula for ME and AE may overlap significantly in the first two years, allowing students to switch majors if needed.
  • Concerns are raised about the job market for aerospace engineers, with some suggesting that an aerospace degree might be limiting due to the increasing capabilities of mechanical engineers.
  • Several contributions emphasize the importance of diversifying skills and taking electives that bridge both fields to enhance job prospects.
  • One participant notes that aerospace engineering programs may attract higher caliber students, which could influence the academic environment and grading standards.
  • There is a suggestion to consider universities where aerospace and mechanical engineering departments are integrated, allowing for a broader educational experience.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions, with no clear consensus on whether to pursue aerospace or mechanical engineering. Some believe that both fields are converging, while others maintain that aerospace engineering retains unique advantages. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best choice for the original poster.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of individual interests and the potential for job flexibility, but there are varying opinions on the long-term viability of an aerospace degree versus a mechanical engineering degree. The discussion also reflects differing experiences and perspectives on the educational rigor and job market dynamics in both fields.

  • #31
Cyrus said:
Astronauts go into space, not Aerospace engineers. :smile:
In the past, they were test/experimental pilots for the military. Now it is a mix of scientists/engineers/pilots.

It depends on what you're going to do with you aerospace engineering degree -it can go either commercial or government work. The one problem I see with the government work (well, what I hear from a close friend who has an aero degree & is working for a company that does major US military contracts) is that 1. it's frustrating working with the government because they're so inefficient, 2. it doesn't allow a lot of room for creativity (the government tells you what they want & just wants you to do it as cheaply as possible), & 3. a lot of the 'higher ups' are ex-military, because they know the system or have connections, and it's very hard to break through those ranks ... so job mobility in some areas may be limited. All in all, though, he does enjoy his job when he's placed on projects that meet his interest. So I guess if you put in your time doing the boring/grunt work (like at any job), you'll eventually be able to prove yourself capable enough to take on the 'fun' work.
As someone with a pilot's license, I sometimes wish I had gone aero...
 
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  • #32
J77 said:
You could always join a pop band, make a load of money, and hitch a ride with the Russians :biggrin:

Only if it's a boy band...
Although poor Lance never made it into space, even after all he had to go through - spend tons of money, have elective heart surgery, have intense training, etc...
 
  • #33
tracydimarco said:
Only if it's a boy band...
Although poor Lance never made it into space, even after all he had to go through - spend tons of money, have elective heart surgery, have intense training, etc...

Fortunately that post was made more than 4 years ago. These days we are living in the future and everyone can go to space on a whim. :-p
 
  • #34
Mech_Engineer said:
Fortunately that post was made more than 4 years ago. These days we are living in the future and everyone can go to space on a whim. :-p

On a whim - if you have several millions to spend!
 

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