Occupational Fields and Experience
Deciding on a degree programme is almost always a challenge that is preceded by many questions. We have answered a few questions about the Aerospace Engineering degree programme at FH Aachen here. You can find more information about the degree programme, content and practical projects in our Faculty of Aerospace Engineering.
Where can I work after graduation?
After graduating with a degree in flight operations technology, you are of course first and foremost a pilot. However, the degree programme opens many doors for graduates: they can pursue postgraduate studies, i.e. a Master's degree, a double degree or a doctorate. There is also the possibility of entering research or education as a specialised teacher after graduation.
Engineers from Faculty 6 often find their jobs in the national and international aerospace industry, at airports or with airlines. Many branches of the metal and plastics processing industry, (wind) energy companies and engineering offices are also possible future jobs.
More specifically
- Pilot in passenger and freight transport
- in the national and international aerospace industry
- with aircraft manufacturers
- in the supplier industry for components and subsystems
- with airlines
- at flight operating companies such as airlines and airport operators
- authorities and agencies (DLR, ESA, federal government, etc.)
- in many high-tech sectors of mechanical engineering and energy technology
- in automotive engineering
- Work in technical sales
- Ensuring quality management
- Activities at management level or leadership positions
What are typical activities and fields of work?
By combining your studies and training, you will be able to see the aviation industry from the perspective of flying personnel, which is a great advantage for working as an engineer at the same time or later. For example, knowledge of the work processes in flight operations can be advantageous when solving engineering problems.
As a graduate of this degree programme, you will always have a special perspective. You are not just a pilot, ensuring that your passengers reach their destination safely, but also an engineer. This means that you understand the technical background to flying and therefore know the theoretical and practical side of aviation and can combine the two.
What are possible future fields of work outside of aircraft management?
The tasks are very diverse and we would like to present some of them here
as examples:
Design and development
Are you interested in new types of aircraft, the further development of lightweight construction methods, the use of satellite technology or the environmentally friendly engines of the future? Then the work of a development engineer is just right for you.
Design (CAD) and calculation (FEM, MKS, CFD)
During your studies, you will familiarise yourself with the most important computer-aided development and simulation methods and apply them. This will enable you to work seamlessly in practice.
Technical sales
In this area, you will be responsible for providing advice, customer-specific design and customer support.
Production
Do you think development is important, but find yourself more involved in implementation? Then this is your field of work. Here you are responsible for production planning and control.
Testing
If you are interested in finding out which developments are actually feasible or how they can be further improved, your work will involve carrying out and analysing tests.
Maintenance and operation of aircraft and enclosures
If you see your future in monitoring the technical condition of aircraft fleets and designing and defining repairs and improvements, then the field of flight operations engineering is of particular interest to you.
Authorities and agencies
Authorities and agencies such as EASA, LBA, DLR and ESA also offer exciting jobs in research or the certification and operation of aircraft and spacecraft.
