Computer Engineering to Aerospace: My Messy Situation

In summary, the conversation is about a person who is currently studying computer engineering but is interested in aerospace and is considering switching majors. They are seeking advice from others in the field and are particularly interested in hearing from computer and aerospace engineers. One engineer shares their own experience and recommends following one's passion, while another cautions about the volatility of the aerospace industry and suggests avoiding government work. It is noted that computer engineers can also find employment in the aerospace industry, specifically in designing computing systems for aircraft.
  • #1
Aeronav
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I am in my semester in computer engineering iam doing Python now and never took programming before and i previously acquired a 1 year certification in computer networking, programming is interesting but so far, i have not found passion in it, i always wanted to do Aerospace, however; iam just starting Cal, so math will be taken in any case, i understand the complexity of aero math and dynamic classes and it will take longer than computer degree ;but, my passion to aerospace and moving parts is unique . anyway, for anyone who did or doing computer engineering or aerospace can you please give me your opinion to a messy situation like this one...lol, i believe computer and aerospace engineers are the ones to ask.

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
Aeronav said:
I am in my semester in computer engineering iam doing Python now and never took programming before and i previously acquired a 1 year certification in computer networking, programming is interesting but so far, i have not found passion in it, i always wanted to do Aerospace, however; iam just starting Cal, so math will be taken in any case, i understand the complexity of aero math and dynamic classes and it will take longer than computer degree ;but, my passion to aerospace and moving parts is unique . anyway, for anyone who did or doing computer engineering or aerospace can you please give me your opinion to a messy situation like this one...lol, i believe computer and aerospace engineers are the ones to ask.

Thank you.
Hi Aeronav,
I'm first see your post, so first to say welcome to PF, you'll find people here that are specialist in this field that can give you any help you might need.
Read the guidelines and jump right in share what you know and ask about what you don't:)
 
  • #3
That really doesn't sound like a messy situation. You seem to be early in the program still, so you haven't really wasted any time, and most likely most of your classes would be required for both fields of study anyway. Knowing how to program in python could be useful in aerospace, as well, so don't feel like that was a waste of time.
 
  • #4
boneh, i didn't mean messy as wasted time, i mean the decision.
 
  • #5
Well I don't see it being messy in any other way. You clearly have more passion for aerospace than you do for computer engineering, and you are early in the program. Switching sounds like a no-brainer to me.
 
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  • #6
From a purely non-academic perspective, I changed degree subjects in my first year, and I do not regret it one bit.

I was studying architecture, and although I didn't hate it, I knew that I didn't really like it either. I switched to physics meaning a step up in the mathematics i'd need (like you), but if it's what you want, you should be able to find the motivation to bridge the gap.

Hopefully others can give you some specific engineering advice.

Best of luck.
 
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  • #7
Thanks both, Math doesn't scare me because i'll get better over time, but the long list of courses of AE is my concern.
 
  • #8
Aeronav said:
I am in my semester in computer engineering iam doing Python now and never took programming before and i previously acquired a 1 year certification in computer networking, programming is interesting but so far, i have not found passion in it, i always wanted to do Aerospace, however; iam just starting Cal, so math will be taken in any case, i understand the complexity of aero math and dynamic classes and it will take longer than computer degree ;but, my passion to aerospace and moving parts is unique . anyway, for anyone who did or doing computer engineering or aerospace can you please give me your opinion to a messy situation like this one...lol, i believe computer and aerospace engineers are the ones to ask.

Thank you.
I am an Aerospace Engineer for the gov and I love what I do but the field is volatile: up/down/up/down. I suppose all fields are that way but as this field is "sexy" I think its a little more volatile than most. I love the field and I get to go to work (I do research) and play and play and play (mostly with equations and ideas). I would only caution that you avoid working for the gov. It is poorly run, to say the least (all the insanity at the Veteran's Admin, NASA is no different). I do highly recommend going after your passion as that will get you where you want to be: happy!
 
  • #9
the aerospace industry employs many computer engineers doing computer engineering. However they are not desinging the aircraft itself or working with the frame or control surfaces. Instead they design the computing systems inside the aircraft, such as active interceptors, flight control computers, actuator controllers, etc.
 

FAQ: Computer Engineering to Aerospace: My Messy Situation

What is computer engineering?

Computer engineering is a field that combines principles of both computer science and electrical engineering to design, develop, and implement computer systems and software. This includes hardware components such as processors and circuits, as well as software programs and algorithms.

What is aerospace engineering?

Aerospace engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the design, development, and construction of aircraft and spacecraft. This includes areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, and structures, as well as systems and controls.

How does computer engineering relate to aerospace engineering?

Computer engineering plays a crucial role in aerospace engineering by providing the necessary tools and technologies for designing, testing, and operating aircraft and spacecraft. This includes developing software for flight control systems, designing embedded systems for onboard computers, and creating simulations for aircraft performance.

What are some challenges in combining computer engineering and aerospace engineering?

One major challenge in this field is the need to balance the demands for high performance and reliability with the constraints of weight, space, and power in aerospace systems. This requires a deep understanding of both fields and the ability to integrate them effectively.

What are some potential applications of computer engineering in aerospace?

Computer engineering has a wide range of applications in aerospace, including developing navigation and guidance systems, designing flight control algorithms, creating simulations for testing aircraft and spacecraft designs, and developing software for communication and data processing on board. It also plays a crucial role in the emerging field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and autonomous flight.

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