Start designing sails

As an aeronautical engineering student, what would I have to do to start designing sails and getting involved in the marine industry.

Huw

 

Sail. Often. (No kidding!) Beg, buy, or promise marriage to get on board as many sailboats as you can and observe.

Finish your degree.

Learn how to make a sail. Buy a book, attend a "sailmaking for idiots" course, beg for a job - even as a non-paid volunteer - at a local sail loft.

You want to be able to give a prospective employer more than just book-learnin'. If you can help sew, can tie a knot, can recognize the tools of the trade as well as explain Bernoulli's Theorum, you will be in a better position to get that first grunt job that you desperately need to get real-world experience.

Not that I am any great example, but when I finished my Naval Architecture program I didn't even apply for any design office jobs for two years. I worked as a grunt labourer in boatshops building 'glass, aluminum, and wooden boats. From that I learned how the craftsmen did the jobs and the tools they used, so now I can design structures whith knowledge of shop procedures in mind. Builders appreciate that and like working with me. It puts bread on my table, and makes friends out of clients.