The aerospace industry is undergoing a transformative shift driven by the adoption of digital engineering tools, processes, and mindsets. In its white paper “Digital Engineering Workforce Development: Challenges, Best Practices, and Recommendations,” the AIAA Digital Engineering Integration Committee (DEIC) outlines the critical need to prepare a new generation of engineers to thrive in this evolving digital ecosystem.
Digital engineering leverages interconnected, model-based tools across the product lifecycle to enhance design, reduce costs, and speed up development. Unlike traditional methods, it emphasizes integration across engineering, manufacturing, and business systems, using technologies such as AI, PLM, digital twins, and digital threads. The report stresses that successful implementation hinges not only on technology but on people—requiring a digitally fluent workforce capable of navigating this complexity.
The white paper identifies major challenges, including gaps in education, outdated curricula, misalignment among academia, industry, and government, and insufficient diversity in the talent pipeline. It also highlights a generational skills divide: younger professionals are often digitally savvy but lack industry experience, while seasoned engineers may resist digital tools. Bridging this gap requires cultural transformation and leadership support within organizations.
To develop the workforce of the future, the authors recommend revamping engineering education to include systems engineering, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), data analytics, cybersecurity, and real-time visualization. Undergraduate programs should integrate hands-on experience with advanced tools, while graduate and professional development programs must provide depth in areas like simulation, automation, DevSecOps, and AI.
The paper introduces a roles-based taxonomy to clarify job functions and required digital competencies, aiding in targeted training and recruitment. It also stresses the importance of advanced visualization technologies, such as VR and AR, and calls for stronger collaboration between academia, industry, and government to fund programs, align standards, and accelerate innovation.
Finally, the report underscores the importance of leadership, organizational culture, and knowledge management to support digital transformation. By adopting agile strategies, fostering continuous learning, and investing in inclusive, forward-looking education and training, stakeholders can build a resilient and capable digital engineering workforce.
In conclusion, the white paper presents a compelling call to action: digital transformation in aerospace will only succeed if we invest in people as much as in technology. Preparing the next generation of engineers is essential not only for competitiveness but for shaping the future of aerospace innovation.
