The Great Hall at Alameda campus of Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, was packed on the morning of 24 February. Amidst conversations about internships, specialisation courses and future expectations, Técnico students gathered to listen to Miguel Costa, guest speaker at Aerospace Week 2026, organised by the Aerospace Engineering Students’ Organisation (AeroTéc), as part of Técnico Career Weeks.
Miguel Costa, who is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), shared his journey marked by non-linear decisions, unexpected opportunities and international mobility. “I didn’t enter Técnico with the dream of working in the space sector”, he began. “My first choice was Mechanical Engineering, but I ended up in Materials Engineering without knowing exactly what to expect”.
He discovered the potential of engineering during his studies through contact with different areas and projects. “I realised that engineering is a tool for solving real-world problems and that I could apply it in many contexts”, he explained. His interest in scientific research led him to pursue a PhD at the University of Cambridge, where he specialised in new materials and thermal systems.
“For many people, finishing their studies is a moment of uncertainty”, explained Miguel, describing the challenge of transitioning from academia to the job market. Applying to the European Space Agency (ESA) marked a turning point, despite the initial challenges. “I faced many closed doors, but each rejection taught me something”, he confessed. “I never had a definite plan to enter the space sector. I just explored various opportunities”.
The connection to NASA came later, after contacting a researcher at a scientific conference. He is currently part of a team dedicated to developing technologies for space missions, including robotics systems, new propulsion solutions, and technologies for collecting and transporting planetary samples. “The goal [of our work] is to solve problems that have no solution yet and that allow us to explore the universe in new ways”, he explained.
Throughout the session, he highlighted the diversity of profiles needed in the aerospace sector and the value of multidisciplinary skills. “I know engineers working in programming, satellite control, robotics and project management. Engineering allows for this adaptation”, he said, also reinforcing the importance of technical skills, soft skills and personal motivation.
For those aspiring to an international career, he advised to “closely follow up developments outside Portugal, prepare applications in advance and make the most of academic experiences”. He highlighted international mobility and adaptability. “Each experience brought new challenges and learning opportunities. Exposure to different cultures and ways of working has been essential to my career path”.
Aerospace Week: “a bridge between the Portuguese and international aerospace sector and Técnico students”
Since its first edition in 2002, Aerospace Week has sought to strengthen the link between Técnico, industry and international projects. According to Dinis Costa, the event coordinator and Aerospace Engineering student, the initiative “has strengthened its role as a bridge between the Portuguese and international aerospace sector and Técnico students”. The increasing participation of foreign companies has provided greater access to global opportunities, while investments in the sector in Portugal have strengthened the involvement of national entities.
Regarding the role of an aerospace engineer and the challenges in the field, Dinis Costa highlighted the decarbonisation of the aviation sector, space debris management and the development of reusable technologies. “The ability to think innovatively and explore alternative materials and manufacturing processes will be essential for meeting the demands of the sector and promoting more sustainable solutions”, he argued. “Combined with a work ethic, for which Instituto Superior Técnico prepares its students exceptionally well, these factors serve as the foundation for a successful career as an aerospace engineer in today’s market”.
Aerospace Week included thematic sessions, job fairs and networking opportunities, providing experiences that complement academic training and facilitate contact with employers. For Miguel Costa, these initiatives are fundamental to building informed career paths. “They help to clarify goals and showcase the many possibilities available”, he said. “There is no single path to success. The most important thing is to seek out challenges, engage in continuous learning and work on impactful projects. Being ambitious, even in the face of uncertainty, is the best way to prepare for international and innovative careers”.
