How to Transition to the Space Industry
Transitioning careers is often a tough process that is time-consuming. However, with this step-by-step plan, you will be able to transition to the space sector.
1. Start with Why You Want This
Before you start your transition, you will need a strong reason as to why you are considering transitioning into the space sector. Having clear, well thought out and strong motivating reasons are key to driving a successful transition into the space sector.
Your reasons should include both career choices and personal choices as well. Strong motivators for entering into the space industry include the dynamic and often exciting work environment and/or entering in a growing industry that further develops versatile and highly transferable job skills. Personal reasons can include a passion for space and feeling ready for a new challenge.
It’s important that you are honest with yourself and consider both the unique nature of the space industry and also the challenges that exist in most careers despite the change in sector. While the space industry has many upsides, it is also challenging because of the precision needed to work on space crafts, fast turnarounds, and often longer work days. Like other industries, there will still be the challenges of company culture, getting along with coworkers, establishing your reputation, learning new skills and operations and dealing with pressure.
Now that you have considered your reasons for entering the space sector, you can conclude if this career change makes sense.
2. Research the Skills You Need
Identifying your current skill set and researching space jobs is an essential part of transitioning into the space industry. Although most space jobs are STEM related and there tends to be a large portion of people transitioning careers from industries such as oil and gas, automotive and aircraft, there is also room in the space sector for a variety of backgrounds. For example, there are openings for those in finance and accounting, marketing and community relations, legal, etc. and your experience can come from various sectors.
Research the specific skill set you need by looking up job descriptions in the space sector and seeing what the day-to-day tasks are.
Make sure to take note of your hard and soft skills that transfer into your desired position in the space sector.
Now that you have identified the skills you have, you can now boost your appeal to the space companies to land your dream job in the space sector.
3. Research the Space Sector
This phase is one of the most important for you to prepare yourself for the transition into the space sector and boost your appeal to space companies. Learn about the industry by checking out some free space educational resources such as MOOC or books.
Also, make sure to do your homework on the space companies that you want to apply to. Understand the different missions of different space companies that you are interested in and make sure you are clear on each company’s mission while not confusing them with their competitors.
Some good sources to start with are:
Supercluster.com
Payload Newsletter
5. Shift Your Personal Branding
Show the company that you are the perfect person for the role. Spend time to update your resume –making each version specific to the job description and get feedback from people–especially those who are familiar with the space sector. Update your Linkedin profile, and other social media to align with your qualifications and interests.
Add to your resume as you achieve additional industry knowledge, experience, and credentials. Emphasize your existing skill sets in a variety of ways so that they can be applied to your new role.
Employers want to see why you’re the best person for the job, so only put the most relevant information.
For help with resume building and interviewing tips, join our Discord and keep an eye out for our next live workshop.
6. Network with Space Professionals
Last up, you will need to network your way into a job. Connect with space professionals that can give you guidance and insight into job openings.
They may also put in a good word for you, which is excellent because 80% of jobs come from personal and professional connections.
You can meet these people by joining industry events, online communities, and joining a space association. Some places to start are these events:
Yuri's Night Events
Space Symposium
Last Words
In conclusion, making the transition into the space sector takes the right reasons and career skills. Having a good understanding of your strengths and improving any areas that need improvement will help you make a successful transition into the space sector.
Remember to use these guidelines to create a strong and helpful action plan to land yourself your dream job in the space sector.
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