Aerospace books

Non-Technical Aerospace Books Recommendations

Although I decided to pursue the path of robotics, these books provided me with insight into what being an engineer is. These two (mostly) non-technical books are a great way to relax and get excited about the prospects of becoming an engineer (or scientist).

Many engineering skills these books highlight remain crucial, even in the age of artificial intelligence.

Both of these stories capture the zeitgeist of the 20th century in the United States.

Skunk Works tells the story of the mysterious and secretive division of Lockheed Martin behind the most ambitious aircraft projects. It highlights:

  • Deep work – even more relevant today, when distraction is ubiquitous
  • Curiosity and independent thinking – the fundamental principles behind the SR-71’s low radar cross-section were described in a Soviet paper that no-one ever explored in detail
  • Fundamental understanding – the employees developed a deep intuition for their area of specialty (something that has to be developed organically through diligent study)

Ignition! follows the wild scientific adventures of John Drury, and although it does contain some Chemistry, will delight you with what can only be described as “pretty wild” experiments. It highlights:

  • Measured risk-taking (the “measured” sometimes appears optional, unfortunately) can lead to great results and significant advancements.
  • A real curiosity gives an incredible edge - the scientists and engineers were absolutely fascinated with their field, and only this curiosity allowed them to make new discoveries.

Both books are really short, so read them over a couple of weekends, you won’t regret it!

Take care and stay curious!