Can a 10th Grader Interview an Aerospace Engineer for a School Project?

[Soccerbum15]

I will reiterate my plea just in case:
Hello. I'm in 10th grade in high school and for one of my engineering classes I have to do a research paper. One requirement of the paper is I have to interview a currently active and experienced engineer (preferably aerospace), so I came up with a few questions that I would like at least one of you to answer. If you do not want to, u do not have to, but it would be very helpful if u agree. Also, you do not need to answer all of the questions, but try to do the most you can. Please take your time and answer truthfully, I hope that at least one of you will help me out. The paper is due 12/3, so i would like to have some replies by 11/28 if possible, but do not rush before or after or even during the holiday, take your time. Here goes:
1. Where do you work and what does the company do?
2. Exactly what kind of engineer are you and how long have you been employed as an engineer?
3. Describe the duties and responsibilities of someone working in your field of engineering.
4. Are there specializations in your field of engineering and do you have a particular specialty?
5. What are some of the projects you have worked on and do you have one that your most proud of?
6. Is any part of your job hazardous or dangerous?
7. How much of your time is spent on the computer?
8. Do you work alone or with other engineers? What other types of engineers do you work with?
9. How much knowledge of other fields of engineering do you need to know in order to perform your job requirements?
10. What do you like most about your job?
11. What do you dislike about your job?
12. Is there further education offered where you work?
13. Where did you go to college, how long did it take to earn your degree, and what kinds of courses did you have to take?
14. What are the beginning, average, and top pay one could expect to earn working in this profession?
15. How many hours do you work per week?
16. Are the benefits good and do you get much vacation time?
17. Do you have to travel?
18. Is it possible to work at home (like if you are sick)?
19. Were there any tests or licenses you had to get before you became an engineer?
20. Is this what you thought you were going to do in high school?
21. Do you have any advice for someone looking to go into engineering?
22. Is there anything you want to add?
Thank you very much for your time and concern. Good luck!

 

[trevie1970]

1) I work for Goodrich Power Systems, primary objective is to design and supply Power systems for both commercial and military aircraft.
2) I am a systems/integration engineer, I have been an engineer since 2000.
3) Duties involved are writing test procedures from requirements and running test Plans and writing reports. Other objectives is to test Hardware and software integration for Qualification prior to been installed on aircraft.
4) I specialise in Computer systems and electronics.
5) Working currently on two projects, the new Airbus A400M, Airbus A380 new updates.
6) Yes, when closely working with Oily Generators and High Voltages.
7) On the computer around 80%.
8) I work with whole range of engineers from all different disciplines.
9) I only work with electronics and computer systems. other fields are normally left to others who specialise in that area of expertise.
10) I enjoy and appreciation of what goes into design and qualification of new and existing aircraft.
11) The long hours typing on the computer.
12) There is in house training on some things that relate the business in hand, but in depth techinical knowledge is limited to University.
13) Bucks / Brookes university and took me from National certificate, High National Certificate, Foundation Degree to BSc Degree with Hon. in 10 years (Partime). The Course work is mainly Software/Electronics both analogue and Digital design. prior to this, I did 2 years City and Guilds Electronics and computing at a local college.
14) Wages varies from 35k to 100k
15) Hours are normally 37 hours, but normally work 45 hours.
16) Good benefits with 25 days A/L

17) Rarely travel whilst working but occasionally it may happen.
18) I have worked at home, but not when I am sick. (why would I want to?)
19) It depends on the type of work you need to carry out, the only thing I needed was and Electronics and Computer degree. (Some types of engineering work do require to be chartered status within certain fields though.)
20) I didnt know what I wanted to do till I was 25. then I became and engineer in computing and electronics.
21) Engineering can be a rewarding challange when you know something you have designed or tested. you know people are using your product around the world.

22) Good luck in your chosen career..

 

[Mene]

Dear student,

Thank you for reaching out and for your interest in the field of engineering. I understand the importance of conducting research and seeking out information from experienced professionals. I would be happy to provide some insights and answers to the questions you have posed.

1. I work at a research and development company that specializes in aerospace technology. Our company focuses on designing and testing new aircraft and spacecraft.

2. I am a mechanical engineer and I have been employed as an engineer for 8 years.

3. As a mechanical engineer, my duties and responsibilities include designing and analyzing mechanical systems, creating and testing prototypes, and collaborating with other engineers and technicians to ensure the functionality and safety of our designs.

4. Yes, there are specializations within mechanical engineering. My specialty is in aerodynamics and fluid mechanics.

5. I have worked on various projects, including designing and testing a new aircraft engine and developing a more efficient cooling system for a spacecraft. I am most proud of my work on a project that involved designing a more durable and lightweight material for aircraft wings.

6. Yes, there are certain hazards involved in my job, such as working with high-pressure systems and potentially hazardous materials. However, we have strict safety protocols in place to minimize any risks.

7. A significant amount of my time is spent on the computer, using software to design and analyze different systems and components.

8. I work with a team of other engineers, including aerospace, electrical, and software engineers. We collaborate and share ideas to solve complex problems.

9. While it is not necessary to have in-depth knowledge of other fields of engineering, having a basic understanding of other disciplines can be helpful in my job.

10. I enjoy the challenge of solving complex problems and seeing my designs come to life. It is also rewarding to know that my work contributes to the advancement of technology in the aerospace industry.

11. One aspect I dislike about my job is the occasional long hours and tight deadlines. However, I understand that it is necessary for the success of our projects.

12. Yes, our company offers further education and training opportunities to help us stay updated on the latest technologies and advancements in the field.

13. I earned my degree in mechanical engineering from a university in the United States. It took me 4 years to complete my undergraduate studies, and I had to take courses in math, physics, materials science, and engineering principles.

14. The beginning salary for a mechanical engineer can range from $