Reusable Spacecraft System Designers and Engineers

High School

In high school, take a college prep curriculum that focuses heavily on science (e.g., chemistry, physics), mathematics, engineering, and computer science (e.g., programming, advanced artificial intelligence) courses. Shop classes will teach you how to use hand and power tools, build and repair things, and work with electrical systems and electronics. Other recommended classes include English, writing, and speech.

Postsecondary Education

Industrial designers typically have bachelor’s degrees in industrial design, architecture, or engineering, although some space companies prefer candidates with a master’s degree in one of these fields. The Industrial Designers Society of America offers a list of schools on its Web site, https://www.idsa.org/resources/design-school-directory.

Aspiring engineers typically earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering or an engineering specialty (e.g., aerospace, electrical, chemical, industrial, mechatronics), but top employers often require engineers to have a master’s degree in engineering or engineering management. ABET (http://www.abet.org) accredits postsecondary engineering programs. A small number of engineers and designers train for the field via apprenticeships.

Certification

Colleges and universities in the U.S. and around the world offer certificate programs in general engineering, engineering specialties, industrial design, and aerospace-related fields. For example, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers the following specialized aerospace engineering certificate programs: aerodynamics and flight mechanics, aerospace design and systems engineering, aerospace materials, aerospace structural mechanics, hypersonics, spaceflight engineering, and sustainable aircraft design and operation. Visit https://aerospace.illinois.edu/academics/graduate/certificates for more information. Certificate programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Participating in continuing education (CE) classes is a great way to keep your skills up to date. They are provided by professional associations, colleges and universities, and for-profit online learning platforms. For example, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics offers courses, workshops, and webinars. Recent courses included Design of Space Launch Vehicles; Engineering Design Optimization: Theory and Practice, Spacecraft Design, Development, and Operations; and Technical Writing Essentials for Engineers.

Other organizations that offer CE opportunities include the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Industrial Designers Association of America, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers, National Society of Professional Engineers, SME (previously known as the Society of Manufacturing Engineers), and the Society of Women Engineers.