Here's how you can exceed employers' expectations as an intern in Aerospace Engineering.

When you have a challenging task ahead, don't just ask your lead or mentor how to proceed, bring them some of your own options (consider making a recommendation) AND THEN ask, "how would you like to proceed?" This shows you have put in the extra effort to think for yourself, helps your mentor spend less time on the effort and provides decision-makers (your mentor for now, but later your manager) the opportunity to leverage decision-velocity. When channeled across an entire organization, this will vastly speed up decisions and increase your organization's efficiency presuming your decision-makers understand what they are doing. Also, in well-maintained organizations, your decision-makers know what they are doing.

Showing initiative in an aerospace internship is about more than just being proactive. It's about demonstrating genuine curiosity and a desire to make a real impact. Don't be afraid to speak up in meetings, propose innovative solutions, and take on stretch assignments that push you out of your comfort zone. Remember, the most successful interns are those who treat their role as an opportunity to leave a lasting impression, not just check a box. So bring your A-game, think outside the box, and make every moment count.

At the beginning of your internship, build in an introductory period where you plan to do the following: -Explain who you are as an organization -Share your vision, mission, culture -Show them around your office, especially where they’ll work and take breaks -Show them around the other parts of the office, including other departments -Explain in broad terms what everyone in your office does, such as their job duties and how their duties impact the rest of the organization -Go over the rules of your workplace by providing a policy handbook -Share communication expectations, such as how do you prefer to communicate in your office (whether it’s through email, Slack, text message, or some other form)

Mastering the fundamentals is key, but don't forget the power of practical application. Aerospace engineering is a hands-on field where theory meets reality. Dive deep into real-world case studies, get your hands dirty in the lab, and seek out opportunities to work on tangible projects. The more you can bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and practical problem-solving, the more valuable you'll be as an intern. Remember, it's not just about what you know, but how you use that knowledge to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation forward.

Most engineers have trouble communicating effectively. Communication skills, when applied with technical rigor, comprehensive or expanding questions, and frequent open discussion encourages better design. To practice effective communication skills, pretend you are the decision-maker who is listening to your presentation. Channel how you might think if you were in their shoes and had to make the decision. If you were, what information might be relevant to them? For starters, risk, cost, and schedule are the top of any program/project manager's mind which is then quickly followed by technical merits of the options. As an intern, risk, cost, and schedule, will likely be lesser factors than technical but thinking ahead will let you shine.

Effective communication is about more than just articulating your ideas. It's about knowing your audience, adapting your message, and making complex concepts accessible. In aerospace, you'll be collaborating with a diverse cast of characters, from seasoned engineers to non-technical stakeholders. The key is to find common ground, listen more than you speak, and use storytelling to bring your ideas to life. Remember, the best communicators are those who can distill the essence of a problem, inspire others with their vision, and rally the team around a shared goal. Master that, and you'll be unstoppable.

Find the people who are willing to answer your questions. Then ask A LOT of GOOD questions. You better make sure they are good questions though, not ones you can answer for yourself. Do not waste anyone's time because you didn't do your homework or due diligence. Sometimes school, and college classes, can stifle question-asking out of fear of looking stupid amongst peers or because of other social pressures. The great engineering leads and the great managers don't get there because they know everything, they get there because they know the right questions to ask in order to make people think differently and ensure all of the potential gaps are covered.

Hey, let's be real: mentors are a game-changer. They've been there, done that, and have the scars to prove it. Snagging one at work? Genius move. It shows you're not just punching the clock, but actually give a damn about your career. Sure, aerospace engineering is no cakewalk, but with a mentor in your corner, you'll navigate that maze like a pro. They'll give you the inside scoop, steer you clear of pitfalls, and help you soar to new heights. So don't be shy - seek out that mentor and watch your career take flight!

In the wild world of aerospace, change is the only constant. One minute you're cruising along, the next you're caught in a tailspin. But hey, that's part of the thrill, right? Employers are all about those interns who can roll with the punches. You gotta be like a chameleon, adapting to whatever comes your way without missing a beat. Project priorities shifting? No sweat. New tech dropped in your lap? Bring it on. Flexibility is your secret weapon. Show 'em you can handle the twists and turns, and you'll be soaring above the rest. Embrace the chaos and watch your aerospace career take off!

Engineering is done GIVEN uncertainty. We start from the recognition that we DON'T know everything. Being adaptable and looking for the next gap to cover or next problem to tackle is a must to thrive in an engineering environment. The whole point of engineering is to take the limited knowledge we have and then use those rules and laws, recognizing how little we understand, then building in margin for error and factors of safety, to then build systems that work and/or effect a series of objectives/outcomes GIVEN our knowledge limitations. Learning how to predict, understand, and prepare to tackle the next unforeseen challenge is a skill that will increase the longevity of anyone's engineering career.

I think the big take away here is to not be afraid! It can be hard especially as a first-time intern. Do not put unnecessary pressure on yourself to make an impact, that will likely come with simply completing tasks on the job well! Interns can bring a lot of creativity by just asking questions other may not have thought of. A lot of company cultures value the "see something say something" attitude, so speak up if you think you have an idea, question, or solution no matter how small!