Aerospace Engineering

Step into 700 hectares of Airbus infrastructure and witness the extraordinary complexity and scale of an airplane assembly line. The Blagnac manufacturing facility is one of the rare places in the world where you can see the final stages of an airplane coming together before it takes flight.

You and your fellow Global Navigators feel tiny as you look up at the towering A350XWBs. The Airbus guide explains how each plane is crafted from millions of parts, sourced from dozens of countries, and meticulously assembled by thousands of expert technicians. With mouths agape, you exchange smiles with your friends, awestruck by this engineering marvel that turns the dream of flight into a reality.

Everything you’ve been studying—theory, airplane designs, and engineering concepts—comes to life right before your eyes. You ask questions, peer inside the planes for a closer look, and leave feeling completely inspired. Now, more than ever, you’re sure that becoming an aerospace engineer is your path.

Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience. 

You’re kneeling on the grassy field, hands steady as you position your rocket onto its launch pad. The air crackles with anticipation as you and your teammates step back, eyes fixed on your creation. This isn’t a simple kit-build; here in Toulouse, you’re building a rocket entirely from scratch, mastering each stage of the engineering process.

In teams of two or three, you tested and tweaked every detail—from fins and body tube to the nose cone and engine mount—launching practice rockets and tackling design challenges together. Watching classroom theories come to life was a thrill, even when things didn’t go as planned! Each setback gave you and your friends a chance to get creative, pooling your ideas to solve problems and bring your rocket closer to launch-day perfection.

Finally, the big day arrives. You count down as your rocket roars to life, soaring into the sky. This isn’t just your first launch—it’s weeks of teamwork, innovation, and a glimpse into your future as an aerospace engineer.