Top skills for a thriving career in aerospace

The European aerospace industry is a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector, offering exciting career opportunities. A 2021 White Paper by Women in Aerospace Europe (WIA-Europe) sheds light on the key skills currently in demand, and those expected to grow in importance as the industry advances. From cutting-edge technical expertise to essential soft skills, the report provides valuable insights for anyone considering a career in aerospace. 

Technical skills

At the core of the aerospace industry are technical skills. Engineers, technicians, and IT professionals are in high demand, particularly those with expertise in emerging fields like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data science. These technologies are transforming the sector, enabling innovations in areas such as autonomous flight, predictive maintenance, and advanced materials. 

If you’re pursuing a technical role, a strong foundation in engineering, computer science, or IT is essential. The industry also values practical experience. Many new graduates find that their university training is more theoretical than practical, so gaining hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or vocational training can give you a competitive edge. 

Hybrid skills: the future of aerospace

The aerospace industry is increasingly seeking professionals with cross-disciplinary skills. This means combining expertise in multiple areas, such as engineering and management, or IT and data science.

Here’s what Jenny Cavanaugh, Chief Strategy Officer of Cranfield Aerospace said about the skills in their team working on a hydrogen-fuelled aircraft:

"We’ve realised that finding someone who is already an expert in both aviation and emerging technologies like hydrogen fuel cells is nearly impossible. So, instead of waiting for the perfect candidate, we bring together specialists from different fields – aviation engineers and hydrogen fuel cell experts – and put them into multidisciplinary teams. They learn from each other, and over time, we’ve created aviation engineers who understand hydrogen fuel cell systems. It’s about mindset and problem-solving, not just specific skill sets. We’re not just filling roles; we’re creating the skills the industry needs for the future."

This trend reflects the industry’s growing complexity and the need for professionals who can bridge gaps between different fields.

The importance of lifelong learning

One of the most striking findings of the WIA-Europe report is the need for continuous upskilling and reskilling. The rapid pace of technological change means that even mid-career professionals must constantly update their knowledge and skills. This is particularly true for those transitioning from related sectors, such as automotive or IT, who may need to acquire specific domain knowledge. 

A culture of lifelong learning is becoming essential in aerospace. Many companies now encourage employees to pursue continuous professional development (CPD) through training programs, workshops, and online courses. Staying curious and committed to learning will help you stay relevant in this fast-paced industry. 

Whether you’re just starting out or considering a mid-career transition, the aerospace sector is a place where innovation and ambition can take you to new heights. So, take the first step today and start building the skills that will launch your career into orbit!