At some point in time, you may have heard the expression―“It’s not rocket science!”―in relation to a subject. For most of us, the vastness of outer space, the building of spaceships, space travel and planet exploration can be a mind-blowing topic and a hard one to wrap our heads around. Yes, in this case, rocket science does come into play. And, yes, it’s a difficult job. But for gaming and space engineering enthusiasts, the virtual reality of being a space engineer and experiencing it all is only weeks away. After five years, the wait is almost over for the release of the highly anticipated voxel-based sandbox game―Space Engineers for Xbox.
This month, Vaughn College explores the exciting roles aerospace engineers (aka ‘space engineers’) play in the world of spacecraft design and the science and technology behind it all. See how the work of real-life space engineers plays into the virtual reality of the upcoming launch of Space Engineers for Xbox.
What is a space engineer?
Space engineers are professionals who design and build machines that fly. They solve practical problems in space and on planets by applying scientific knowledge, in-depth skills and an understanding of mathematics, physics, aerodynamics and materials science—not to mention manufacturing ingenuity. Over the years, two specialty areas of engineering emerged: aeronautical and astronautical. Here are the differences between the two:
Aeronautical engineering involves designing aircraft that flies within Earth’s atmosphere. Some examples include powered lighter-than-air craft gliders, fixed-wing airplanes, jets and helicopters.
Astronautical engineering focuses on the science and technology of spacecraft that fly outside of Earth’s atmosphere. These engineers work on the design and development of the spacecraft.
Together, space engineers design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites and missiles, along with the components and subassemblies which include engines, airframes, wings, landing gear, control systems and instruments. When these engineers have completed designing these crafts, they are responsible for testing prototypes to ensure they function according to plan. Virtual testing of engines, wings and control surfaces is a true gamechanger, as computer simulations are having a great impact on projecting how aircraft and spacecraft will perform under different conditions. Using computer-aided design (CAD) allows for a more seamless process in drafting and modification of designs and 3D visualization.
Space Engineers for Xbox
Speaking of visualization, imagine yourself in outer space. You are building spaceships or traveling through space to explore the planets. Space Engineers for Xbox is the latest gaming phenomenon that virtually places gamers in the middle of the action. In this game, each player’s astronaut is referred to as a “Space Engineer.” The game designers must apply real-life aeronautical engineering concepts, physics and volumetricity to make the game realistic. This is vital as players build their own spaceships, space stations and planetary outposts.
The game is designed around surviving in space and on the planets using engineering, construction and exploration. It’s all about reality and how things work. Here are some cool features and tasks you can practice:
Using a hand drill to mine an asteroid for resources
Adding new components to an existing structure
Working from the cockpit of a small ship
It was paramount to the game’s designers to follow the laws of physics and not use any science and technology that may not be possible in the future. Did you know the construction toys LEGO® and LEGO® TECHNIC served as inventor Marek Rosa’s inspiration to design this game?
Here are more fun facts about Space Engineers for Xbox:
Releases on April 15, 2020
Four million copies have been sold so far
Can be played as a survival shooter as well as construction and exploration aspects
Are you interested in a futureproof career in engineering with an aeronautical focus? See how an engineering degree from Vaughn College can set you on a journey to success.
“Star Wars” fans are encountering a galactic flight experience after United Airlines unveiled its “Star Wars”-themed Boeing 737-800 aircraft in November to celebrate the franchise’s highly anticipated final chapter, “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” which opened in December 2019.
Joining Forces
United Airlines joined forces with the “Star Wars” franchise to promote the epic conclusion of the Skywalker saga. The airline upped their game for its MileagePlus members by offering them the opportunity to use their miles to bid on and buy exclusive “Star Wars”-themed items and experiences. To round out the partnership, United Airlines recruited some of its employees to star in a “Star Wars”-themed commercial which aired through January 2020.
An “Out-of-This-Galaxy” Experience
The airline pulled out all the stops to give “Star Wars” fans a fun “out-of-this-galaxy” experience, both on and off the plane. As part of the newest plane in the United Airlines fleet, the exterior of this unique aircraft has a new paint design depicting the “Star Wars” galaxy which captures the imagery of the X-wing and TIE fighter starships. There are even different colored lightsabers painted on each side of the tail depicting the two alliances. Pretty cool stuff!
The interior of the plane sets the mood for an exciting onboard experience. Passengers are welcomed aboard while the movie’s iconic soundtrack plays in the background—setting the tone for things to come. As passengers approach their seats, it’s hard to miss the headrests embossed with the film’s dueling factions, the Resistance and the First Order. The inflight safety video demonstration has never been so fun, as passengers are instructed by characters from the new film, along with some of the most beloved “Star Wars” favorites such as Yoda and Chewbacca. There’s even a plaque signifying the relationship between United Airlines and “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” and passengers receive a themed amenity kit, too!
The Saga Continues
Attention all Jedis: Be on the lookout as the United “Star Wars” plane makes its way through the airline’s galaxy covering the United States, Canada, Central America and the Caribbean. Unable to book a flight? You can try catching a glimpse of the unique aircraft at the airport by tracking its movements―as well as past and future flights―on FlightAware, considered to be the world’s largest online tracking platform. Simply enter the plane’s tail number—N36272—and look for the X-Wing starship on the tracking map.
The possibility of having a 3D-printed component placed in the human body is here. Today, the advancement of 3D printing is revolutionizing the medical industry, allowing medical professionals to create patient-specific devices such as prosthetics, dental restorations and even orthopedic and cranial implants more efficiently, quickly and economically. The flexibility in this emerging technology is a true gamechanger as it makes these devices more accessible to patients.
Picture perfect
The precision and flexibility of 3D printing enables designers to customize the parts for fitting perfectly with each patient’s anatomy. The ability to create these devices quickly and efficiently for an affordable cost gives doctors and patients more healthcare options.
Here are some examples of medical 3D printing applications:
Detailed models of organs, bones and blood cells now allow doctors and nurses to study patients from all angles
Surgical guides to provide surgeons with extreme precision
Here are some benefits of medical 3D printing:
Customization—Parts can be shaped to perfectly fit a patient’s anatomy.
Sterilization—Most materials used can be sterilized by steam autoclave or gamma radiation.
Speed—Hospitals can use on-demand 3D manufacturing for quick turnaround time.
Cost—Custom medical devices such as prosthetics and implants cost considerably less.
What is 3D printing?
The process of 3D printing involves creating three-dimensional solid objects from a digital file by laying down layers of material—one on top of the other—until the final object is created.
How the parts are made
For the medical industry, imaging processes and detailed scanning are necessary steps for the creation of 3D-printed components. First, laser scanning is used to take detailed images of the patient’s surface. Then, MRI imaging and CT scanning are performed to see cross-sectional images of bones and tissues. Once the imaging has been completed, specialized software turns the images into complete models that can be used for 3D printing.
Emerging global market
Did you know the medical industry accounts for about 13 percent of all 3D-printing revenue? The numbers get even better.
According to Technavio, a leading global market research company, the market for 3D-printing medical devices is forecasted to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of more than 23 percent by 2023. This impressive momentum and projected growth are driven by many factors which include an increased focus on research and development to improve upon existing devices and for designing new combinations of 3D-printed medical devices.
On the horizon
As medical 3D printing continues to make its mark in the industry, scientists are in the early stages of researching a more far-reaching possibility—the manufacture of living organs such as a heart or liver using the 3D-printing process. The hope of this becoming a reality at one time in the future opens a realm of life-saving possibilities for patients around the world who may not have had a second chance at life.
Vaughn is in the game
Vaughn College is at the forefront of 3D-printing technology, thanks to a 3D-prototyping innovation center that was opened a few years ago. It is equipped with 15 3D printers and two 3D scanners which provide students with hands-on opportunities to transform their concepts into physical objects. Students in the College’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) club and robotics club are doing just that—using 3D printers to make parts for their drones and competitive robots.
The reality of electric airplanes may be closer than you think. Earlier this month at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards Air Force Base, NASA unveiled the X-57 “Maxwell,” the agency’s first experimental electric aircraft and NASA’s first manned X-plane in 20 years.
The X-Factor
Electric propulsion technology is the driving force behind the advance of this new era of aviation that can make planes quieter, more efficient and more environmentally friendly. NASA’s aeronautical innovators are on the cusp of demonstrating these revolutionary aviation milestones. Here are a few of the ways the NASA X-57 will accomplish these advancements and address some of today’s pressing passenger concerns. The X-57 will:
Be powered solely by batteries, eliminating carbon emissions
Demonstrate how demand could lower the need for the lead-based aviation fuel which is currently being used today
Reduce noise levels compared to conventional piston engines
Be equipped with a specially designed wing and 14 electric motors
Reduce flight times and fuel usage
Reduce overall operating costs for small aircraft by 40 percent
Vaughn students stay ahead of industry trends and learn about these types of advancements by hearing from the several industry experts from a variety of influential companies such as Airbus and Pratt & Whitney who come to the College to speak on topics such as these. Vaughn also hosts several internship, career and graduate fairs throughout the year, so there are many opportunities for networking and planning for future careers. Vaughn also sponsors student club and association trips to engineering, technology, management and aviation conferences where students present research, learn about technical advances and create connections for potential job opportunities. Check out the events and news pages for upcoming events and happenings at the college.
Years in the making
NASA’s X-planes date back almost 75 years to the invention of the Bell X-1, which put supersonic flight on the map. Since then, X-planes have been used by NASA, the US Air Force and other government agencies to explore the flight mechanics of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), movable wings and other aviation advancements.
In 2015, NASA began its journey working on the X-57, but not in a way you might imagine. Instead of building the plane from the ground up, NASA started modifying an Italian twin-engine propeller plane called Tecnam P2006T. You might be wondering why they chose to use a small propeller plane for such a groundbreaking task. The reason lies in how the aerodynamics proved to be more favorable for an electric airplane that uses propellers.
There’s no denying the modification of the NASA X-57 is an exciting experience, but that’s just one piece of the equation. What about training the pilots to fly an electric airplane? NASA flight control engineers and technicians developed an interactive X-57 simulator at their Armstrong Flight Research Center in California to provide pilots with a virtual flight experience based on what the X-57 would feel like in the air. This simulator experience prepared pilots for future X-57 flight-testing phases and helped familiarize them with reaction times and maneuvers.
Taking it one step at a time
The X-57 Maxwell project consists of four configurations and stages of research distinguished by specific modifications. Currently, the X-57 is in its “Mod II” configuration that features the first all-electric flight hardware. The third phase began at the same time as Mod II to take the X-57 to a new level of electric-powered flight. Some of the most notable and noticeable changes from the Mod II configuration include:
Using electric cruise motors to replace the two combustion motors that were in the original aircraft
Development and integration of an experimental high-speed ratio wing
Reduction in wing area, which contributes to more efficient cruise flight through decreasing friction drag
With the Mod III configuration currently in the works, it’s all about the wing. This upgrade will make space for additional electric propellers and a high-aspect-ratio design to allow the current pair of electric motors to move the wingtips. The final product will feature six small propellers on each wing to be situated on the leading edge along with a larger propeller at the tip.
Nearing the launch
The X-57 hasn’t taken to the skies yet, but NASA says it’s ready for its debut and is hoping to fly it in its final configuration by late 2020. Although the X-57 won’t be as fast and have the ability to fly the same long distances as traditional aircraft, the agency says the electric airplane’s range is suitable for short flights that will be quieter and more efficient.
Vaughn makes it possible
Exciting advancements in aviation technology begin with the knowledge to make it happen. Are you looking for a futureproof career? At Vaughn, we offer a wide range of aviation and engineering and technology degrees to make it possible. Apply today.
November is National Aviation History Month, when the accomplishments and milestone achievements of men and women aviators are recognized. In honor of this celebration, Vaughn College has chronicled some of the industry’s most momentous first flights in the history of aviation. Test your knowledge to see how many you know.
1783—First Hot-Air Balloon Flight
Inspired by a paper bag rising on the flow of heated air, French brothers Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Etienne Montgolfier launched their first hot air balloon, which carried a sheep, a duck and a rooster.
1852—First Powered Flight
Jules Henri Giffard, a French engineer and inventor, built the first full-size steam-powered airship. This first powered flight took off 51 years before that of the famous Wright Brothers.
1884—First Roundtrip Flight
French Army Corps of Engineers Charles Renard and Arthur C. Krebs were the inventors and military officers who became credited with building an elongated balloon that successfully took off―flew five miles―and landed at the same location.
1903—The Wright Brothers and the First Flight
Brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright pioneered the principles for the first powered airplane when they flew their Wright Flyer on a 12-second test flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
1911—First United States (US) Woman Pilot
Harriet Quimby, an early American aviator and movie screenwriter, was the first woman to be awarded a US pilot’s certificate in the United States. She was also the first woman to fly across the English Channel. As a result of these accomplishments, she is credited for influencing the role of women in aviation.
1914—World’s First Commercial Airline
Passengers aboard The St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line made history on the world’s first commercial airline service between St. Petersburg and Tampa, Florida—in just 20 minutes.
1927—Charles Lindbergh and the First Solo Transatlantic Flight
Charles Lindbergh―American aviator, military officer, author, inventor and activist―made history as he piloted the Spirit of St. Louis down the dirt runway of Roosevelt Field in New York and landed in Paris 34 hours later, making him the first pilot to solo a nonstop trans-Atlantic flight.
1947—Breaking the Sound Barrier
Aboard the US Air Force experimental rocket Bell X-1, renowned United States Air Force officer and flying ace Chuck Yeager was the first pilot to exceed the speed of sound.
1958—First Domestic Jet Passenger Service
National Airlines is credited with the inaugural jet passenger service between New York and Miami.
1961—The First Man in Space
Aboard the Soviet Vostok 1 spacecraft, Yuri Gagarin was the first human to travel in space. His 108- minute orbit of the Earth launched the era of manned spaceflight and escalated the race between the US and the Soviet Union, which ultimately led to the first manned moon mission.
1969—Apollo 11: First Men on the Moon
US astronauts Neil Armstrong and “Buzz” Aldrin were the first men to set foot on the moon, where they left behind their footprints, part of the spacecraft and an American flag.
1971—Salyut 1: The First Space Station
The Salyut 1 was the world’s first space station that helped develop methods for living and working in space over long periods of time.
1981—Space Shuttle Exploration
Exactly 20 years after Yuri Gagarin became the first man in space, the space shuttle Columbia blasted into space on its first historic flight. Over the next 30 years, this space shuttle and its four sister ships carried more than 850 astronauts into space, despite the tragedies that would befall the Challenger, and in time, Columbia itself.
1993—First Woman Co-pilot on Commercial Supersonic Plane
British Airways pilot Barbara Harmer was the first woman to fly as first officer on the Concorde from London to New York City.
2005—First Non-stop Solo Flight Around the World Without Refueling
Steve Fossett―American businessman, adventurer and record-setting aviator―set the record for the first non-stop solo flight around the world without refueling. Flying aboard the Virgin Atlantic “Globalflyer,” Fossett travelled almost 23,000 miles around the world, beginning at Salina, Kansas and arriving back 67 hours later.
2017—First All-Female Flight Crew
Southwest Airlines celebrated its first all-female flight crew of two pilots and four flight attendants.
2018—First Space Mission Where US Astronauts Were Women
NASA flight engineer Serena Auñón-Chancellor and NASA astronaut Anne McClain made history in Expedition 57―the first space mission where the only two astronauts representing the United States were both female.
2019—First All-Female Spacewalk
Astronauts Christina Koch and Jessica Meir floated into the history books when they became NASA’s first all-female spacewalk. Koch and Meir were the first US female astronauts to venture outside of the International Space Station.
First experiences leave lasting impressions that can pave the way to future endeavors. Are you ready to take the first step toward a career in aviation? See all that’s possible with an aviation degree from Vaughn College.
RoboBee is all the buzz this year. This insect-inspired microrobot drone which is half the size of a paperclip “flew” its way into the history books in August 2019 as the lightest vehicle to take a sustained, untethered solo flight. With the help of a second pair of wings and other modifications, Harvard researchers nicknamed the bot RoboBee “X-Wing,” after the four-winged starfighters from “Star Wars,” cutting its power cord for the first time as it achieved this groundbreaking flight.
Vaughn College is spotlighting this exciting advancement in robotics and electrical engineering to show how groups of tiny robots like RoboBee may someday be invaluable in search and rescue missions, surveillance, environmental monitoring and even crop pollination; similar to how experts see the larger purpose of drones in the future. (Read about Vaughn’s robotics team, former winners of the VEX Worlds Robotics Competition and how the team continues to up its game each year at the competition.)
Busy as a bee
With decades of research under its belt, a research robotics team at Harvard’s Wyss Institute is credited with revolutionary breakthroughs in manufacturing, materials and design to make this untethered flight happen. They developed a flapping wing system made of a composite material and constructed it through a process called laser machining. For nearly a decade, RoboBee remained tethered. Adding another set of wings to RoboBee and less visible changes to the actuators and transmission ratio gave the microrobot enough lift for researchers to attach solar cells to an electronics panel located under the bee.
Inspired by nature
For centuries, animal flight has fascinated and inspired scientists to develop machines that can fly with the use of flapping wings. Nature and bees were the motivation behind RoboBee to simulate the way bees fly―working both independently and collectively and even pollenating flowers. The vision was to develop autonomous micro aerial vehicles capable of self-contained, self-directed flight, and to achieve coordinated behavior in large groups―just like natural bees. As mentioned before, these lightweight, tiny robots measure about half the size of a paper clip and weigh less than one-tenth of a gram. So, how did they do it?
Simulating a real bee, researchers designed the RoboBee into three main components, consisting of the Body, Brain and Colony. This is how each component was developed:
Body—Fly on its own aided by a compact and integrated power source
Brain—“Smart” sensors and control electronics mimic the eyes and antennae of a bee and can sense and respond to the environment
Colony—Coordinate the behavior of several independent robots to work together as an effective unit
Outdoor flight out of reach―for now
The latest advancements may have the RoboBee X-Wing flying solo in the lab, but more work is needed to make outdoor flight possible. The reason lies with the amount of solar power needed to fuel the solar cells which will enable the microrobots to fly outside. Currently, the RoboBee X-Wing requires the power of approximately three Earth suns to fly. Wow! That’s a lot of energy. With the help of halogen lights, researchers can simulate this enormous level of sunlight in the lab to keep the RoboBees in a state of sustained untethered flight.
Are you interested in robotics and mechatronic engineering? Discover all that’s possible with an engineering and technology degree from Vaughn College.
Photo credit: Wyss Institute at Harvard University
A hurricane is part of Mother Nature’s fury which can endanger thousands of people in its path. Aviation weather forecasting plays a tremendous role in the determination of flight safety. But did you ever wonder how meteorologists obtain the data they need to monitor the intensity and track of this kind of storm to keep us out of harm’s way? If you answered, “hurricane hunters,” then you’re right on track. There’s no denying that hurricane hunters are well-trained pilots. As an institution of learning that offers a wide range of aviation and flight degrees, Vaughn College sets the pace for this adventurous career path. This month, Vaughn highlights a unique area of the aviation industry by discussing the vital role hurricane hunters play in saving lives.
Who are hurricane hunters?
Hurricane hunters are aircrews that are part of the United States Air Force Reserve’s 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, aligned under the 403rd Wing and located at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi. Today’s basic five-member aircrew includes a pilot, co-pilot, navigator, flight meteorologist and weather reconnaissance loadmaster. They are called upon by the National Hurricane Center in Miami, Florida to collect and retrieve necessary storm data. The 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron is a one-of-a-kind organization as it is the only operational military weather reconnaissance unit in the world.
Hurricane hunters are not new to the aviation industry. In fact, the first manned flight occurred in 1943―on a dare―after two military pilots challenged each other to fly into the eye of a hurricane. Little did they know then how that bet would pave the way to today’s aviation weather forecasting of tropical cyclones. Seventy-six years later, a special all-female aircrew made history as it flew into Hurricane Dorian.
Hurricane Dorian: All-female hurricane hunter flight crew makes history
Last month, the first-ever all-female hurricane hunter flight crew made history when it gathered storm data on Hurricane Dorian. Amidst the danger of a major hurricane, the three-pilot flight crew flew a mission into the dangerous storm, marking the first time in 76 years that an all-female hurricane hunter flight crew stormed an Atlantic Ocean hurricane. More women in aviation are being recognized for their impact in the field. Way to go, ladies!
So, why are hurricane hunters critical to keeping the public safe? Read on to learn about their daring missions. (Are you interested in a career as a pilot? Check out the top 10 reasons for becoming a pilot.)
What do hurricane hunters do?
The mission of the aircrews is to fly directly into a tropical cyclone to gather the necessary data required to accurately assess the intensity and track of the storm. Specially modified U.S. Air Force planes typically used to drop off troops and supplies in war zones are flown by the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron to maneuver through the storm. If you’ve ever tracked one of these storms―or worse―lived in the potential path of one, then you know how the track and intensity of the storm can change like the wind (pun intended). So, how do these crews gather the data?
Eye in the sky
At about 10,000 feet, the crew drops Global Positioning System (GPS) sensors while flying directly through the eye to the hurricane’s edge and repeats this pattern as often as four times. This allows the crew to gather information about the storm’s speed, direction and winds. Each mission takes eight hours and alternating crews fly continuously through the course of the storm. The data from each mission is transmitted back to the National Hurricane Center where it is compiled, analyzed and released to news and weather outlets who then relay the information to the public.
Vaughn cares
Hurricane Dorian made landfall as a “category five” hurricane earlier this month, having caused catastrophic damage to several Bahamian islands. The Vaughn community’s thoughts are with those affected by Dorian, including our students, their friends and families.
Both men and women in the field play a crucial role in the safety of flight, management of airlines and engineering of flight technology. And reports like this reinforce the contributions of women in aviation. Are you inspired to take your career to new heights? Check out all that’s possible with an aviation degree from Vaughn, where the programs offered are suited to many diverse interests in the field.
You may have heard that air travel is considered one of the safest forms of transportation—and for good reason. In addition to a checklist of precautionary measures taken to ensure passenger safety, air travel is also the most maintained public transportation system for mass travel. Airplane safety precautions go way beyond the fastening of seat belts and listening to the pre-flight safety drill. As important as these measures are, did you know of the interesting and little-known safety features on airplanes that even the most seasoned air traveler may not be aware of?
This month, we caught up with Fred Parham, associate director of the Aviation Technology Institute (ATI) at Vaughn College, for his take on the subject. So, sit back and relax as we reveal some cool and interesting airplane safety features that just might surprise you. (Oh, tray tables and seats in an upright position do not apply here.)
Emergency Backup Systems
We don’t want to think about this, but even the best systems need a backup system―or two. Today’s aircraft are equipped with backup systems in the event of a catastrophic failure.
Ram Air Turbine (RAT)—Commonly known as RAT in the aviation industry, this small turbine is used as an alternate emergency hydraulic or electrical power source in the event of a catastrophic failure. A propeller-like turbine, which is stowed in a compartment in the fuselage or wing, drops down beneath the plane and generates power from the airstream while being connected to an electrical generator or hydraulic pump. The RAT provides power to vital systems that include flight controls and instrumentation, as well as navigation and communication equipment which aids the pilot to land the plane safely in an emergency.
Auxiliary Power Unit (APU)—Did you ever wonder how the air conditioning and electricity operate on the airplane when the engines aren’t running? If so, you can be thankful for the APU should you ever find yourself sitting in an airplane while it’s being serviced or prepared for flight. This small turbine is in the rear of the aircraft and supplies electric power, compressed air and hydraulic pressure to the aircraft systems.
Interesting airplane safety features
Here are some other interesting airplane safety features passengers may be curious about:
Floor Proximity Emergence Escape Path Marking System (FPEEPMS)—Do you recall the flight attendant explaining how arrows will illuminate the floor of the cabin in an emergency, serving as a guide to the exit doors? In case you missed it, this system is in place in the event of a fire in the cabin. Thick smoke can make it impossible to find the way to safety. Since smoke rises, passengers can crawl to avoid smoke as they follow the arrows to the exit doors.
Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS)—These life-saving systems within aircrafts detect, warn and issue instructions to pilots of two aircrafts in the event of an impending collision.
Terminal Control Area (TCA) or Terminal Maneuvering Area (TMA)—In order to reduce the risk of midair collisions, there is a designated area of controlled airspace around major airports where there is a high volume of air traffic. These areas are called terminal control areas (TCA) or terminal maneuvering areas (TMA). Air traffic control ensures aircrafts flying within these areas are safe.
Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning (EGPWS)—This electronic system alerts pilots if their aircraft is in immediate danger of flying into an obstacle, approaching terrain or the ground.
Air travel can be an exciting experience. Whether it’s flying off to unexplored destinations, visiting with friends and family or for business, the exhilaration of flying is truly a wonder. We hope these little-known airplane safety features make you feel even more comfortable whenever you fly the friendly skies.
Keeping an Eye on the Sky: The Need for Air Traffic Controllers
Has a career as an air traffic controller been on your radar? Now may be the best time to train for one of the most sought-after and important positions in the industry. See why attending an institution like Vaughn College can give you a competitive edge to landing a job as an air traffic controller.
Vaughn can prepare you for this exciting career as an air traffic controller in less time than you might have imagined. Vaughn partners with the FAA to offer the Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI). Why is that important? By attending a college like Vaughn, which offers the AT-CTI, you get to bypass the FAA biometric screening exam―which many do not pass. Vaughn is one of only 30 colleges in the country to offer this program, and the only program of its kind in the Northeast.
Unique job benefits
The steady demand for air traffic controllers and the unique benefits of this position are catching the attention of aviation enthusiasts from all walks of life. With the following standard benefits, it’s no wonder air traffic controllers will be in steady demand for years to come:
Potential to earn six-figure salary after first few years of service
Consistent work schedule
Scheduled breaks throughout your shift
Mandatory retirement age at 56, with full federal pension benefits
Student Success Story
Vaughn graduates like Jessenia Diaz ’10 have landed successful careers as air traffic controllers―right here in New York City. Diaz is just one example of how passion and dedication can lead to attaining a dream job.
When you think of aviation, you can’t help but think “up”—airplanes flying overhead, rockets launching into space. But did you know the world of aviation is so much more than that? To keep aircrafts safe in the air, we need experts on the ground to make it all happen.
For over 80 years, Vaughn College has been the cornerstone of education for students who choose to pursue careers in aviation. With a vast curriculum encompassing all aspects of aviation, it’s no wonder Vaughn graduates are succeeding at every level and landing their dream aviation jobs in a soaring industry. Want proof? Check out the recent success stories of Alexa Cruz ’22, Kirei Watson ’18, and Jade Kukula ’07.
We’ve narrowed down the top five aviation jobs and salaries in the industry today. See all the opportunities you have with your aviation degree:
1. Director of Aerospace Program Management
Annual Salary: $183,000 (including bonuses and profit sharing). Education: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or related field; graduate degree may be required.
This leadership position is one to aspire to as it requires experience and expertise in the field. Directors of aerospace program management lead product and project-development programs and are involved in creating a company’s business strategies, negotiating contracts to build aircrafts, and ensuring budgets and timetables are met. They are typically hired by aircraft or engine manufacturers, or defense, telecommunications or other aerospace-related employers. Other tasks include:
2.CommercialPilot, Co–Pilot,orFlightEngineer
AnnualSalary: $113,000 (including bonuses and profit sharing). Education: Bachelor’s degree in aviation. Certifications: Commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the FAA-issued Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate.
If you ever needed a reason―aside from your passion―to become an airline pilot, here’s one you can’t ignore: According to a recent report from Boeing projects, the airline industry will need more than 637,000 pilots by 2036. There’s never been a better time to pursue your dream and train to become a pilot amidst this staggering pilot shortage. Additionally, pilots have the potential to earn excellent salaries as their careers advance. Airline pilots, co-pilots, and flight engineers are on board to perform the same duties, ensuring the safe flight of aircraft from one place to another. Other tasks include:
Air traffic controllers (ATCs) are a pilot’s eyes and ears on the ground, assisting with landing and take-off instructions. ATCs are also responsible for rerouting in-flight aircraft when inclement weather strikes. A unique characteristic of working as an ATC is the mandatory retirement age of 56, with full federal pension benefits. Other tasks include:
4. Aerospace/Aviation Project Engineer
Annual Salary: $83,000. Education: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, aviation engineering or another field of engineering or science that is related to aerospace systems.
Aerospace/aviation project engineers have the exciting task of designing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They are employed in various fields which include manufacturing, analysis and design, research and development, and the federal government. Note that aerospace engineers working in national defense may need a security clearance. Other tasks include:
Aircraft maintenance managers play a leading role of overseeing their team to ensure work is completed and performed according to quality control guidelines. These professionals must possess both technical and leadership skills to efficiently perform maintenance jobs in addition to supervising maintenance operations. Other tasks include:
Are you setting your sights on a career in aviation? Vaughn’s career services offer aviation enthusiasts a wide range of options where they can find the perfect career fit with certificate, associate, bachelor and master’s degree programs.
