Are you an engineering student who wants to explore the job market for the best opportunities and job prospects? Look into aviation and aerospace if so.
U.S. labor statistics only show a modest rise in aerospace engineers’ employment, with a forecast of an 8 percent increase through 2014. However, industry leaders have a different story. ASME Turbo Expo 2007, a major technical conference, was held in May. Industry leaders pointed out that there is not enough engineers and researchers to fulfill the needs of technology programs in place or in the future.
Industry leaders believe that the retirement of engineers from the baby boom generation will worsen the already low labor force. Many engineers who have contributed to the U.S. aerospace program and the growth in commercial airline business during the 1970s will be retiring in the next five or six years. This will leave the industry with a severe shortage of technical ability, innovative ideas, and general business skills.
The recruitment of technical talent is in line with the expectations of leaders in the engineering industry. They anticipate jobs in the manufacturing of jet engines, government-sponsored research entities such as NASA and the U.S. Department of Defense, as well the development of high-tech software that aids navigation and other critical flight functions.
The future of aerospace is expected to see the development of sensor-driven self-repairing engines for aircraft and military jets capable of taking off and landing vertically. ASME Turbo Expo speakers wondered if there was enough talent to fill the void.
The aerospace and aviation industries require engineers with strong skills in aerodynamics and materials technology. They also need to be proficient in computer simulations. Additionally, engineers are sought by industry recruiters who have the business skills and capabilities that allow companies to compete in a global market with increasing costs.
Engineers in the early stages of their careers and students can benefit from technical learning and enrichment opportunities offered by organizations such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers or its International Gas Turbine Institute. Visit this website for more information www.asme.org.
