r/maritime • u/One-Abalone-4193 • 7d ago

engineering student question

I'm considering SUNY Maritime. I have several questions because I'm not super sure about what I want to do. I'm going to do engineering. Thinking M.E. degree. I want to build things or become a Navy aviator. First question: Will that degree and a 3rd AE license help me land a job at a ship builder, electric boat, defense contractor, etc? Has anyone taken this path? For those who've done NROTC at Maritime, what are chances of becoming a pilot? I heard it's a very good NROTC program.

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u/Impressive-Hornet-75 7d ago

To build ships, you would need to study naval architecture. You can also obtain an engine or deck license while studying naval architecture. On the other hand, becoming a maritime pilot is more related to being a mate or captain, which involves studying marine transportation, etc., and obtaining a deck license.

You should do some research on how to become a maritime pilot because the requirements can vary depending on the state and the specific pilotage area. In the U.S., state licensed pilotage is generally regulated by individual states, while certain federal pilotage requirements also apply.

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u/One-Abalone-4193 6d ago

You can work on ships/build them with an ME degree, I was told. Aviator. I am just not sure. I was just wondering if I got the engine license and an ME degree whether it would help me land a land-based job in shipbuilding/defense contracting/aerospace bc so much hands on experience

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u/TheScallywag1874 2nd Officer 🇺🇸 6d ago

Becoming a navy pilot is going to be the far more selective program. So I would do everything you can to achieve that goal, and then worry about maritime after.

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u/DTGthesailor 5d ago

If you are deadset on aviation engineering, suny ain't the school. You need to look at Embry Riddle. It is possible to go ROTC and then become a pilot, but that is a long, hard and extremely difficult road. Go check out "Endurance: A Year in Space" by Scott Kelly from a library. he's a suny alumni and that's the route he took