Build Reliability Engineers

High School

Courses in algebra, trigonometry, calculus, physics, chemistry, programming, artificial intelligence, computer-aided design, and engineering will provide you with good preparation for college and a career as an engineer. Shop classes will teach you how to use tools and build and repair things. Engineers need strong oral and written communication skills in order to give presentations, write reports, and interact effectively with colleagues. To build these skills, take English, writing, and speech courses. Learning a foreign language will come in handy if you plan to work as an engineer outside of the United States.

Postsecondary Education

A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in aerospace, chemical, electrical, industrial, materials, manufacturing, or mechanical engineering; materials science; mathematics; engineering physics; chemistry; or computer science is required to work in this career. Some employers require applicants to have a master’s degree in one of these fields or have a degree in engineering management or project management.

Some colleges and universities offer degrees in reliability engineering. For example, the University of Maryland offers master of science, master of engineering, and doctoral degrees in reliability engineering.

Certification

Certificate programs are available from colleges and universities, professional associations, and online learning platforms (OLPs). They allow students and current workers to learn about various specializations and other topics that may not be covered in detail in their degree program. Examples of schools that offer space-related certificates include Pennsylvania State University (space systems engineering), Kansas State University (space systems engineering), and Johns Hopkins University (space systems and operations). Contact postsecondary institutions in your area and other providers for more information about educational offerings.

Other Education or Training

Continuing education (CE) classes, workshops, and webinars are provided by colleges and universities, OLPs, and professional associations. For example, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) offers courses such as Beyond the Job Title: Perspectives from Practicing Engineers; Aerospace Professionals Q&A for High School Students; The U.S. Aerospace Workforce: Obstacles and Opportunities; and Spacecraft Design, Development, and Operations. Visit https://www.aiaa.org/events-learning for more information.

At many employers, engineers must be U.S. citizens or lawful, permanent residents; they also must pass a background check and receive security clearances.