Luke Horner

My degree provided me with a key introduction into experimental methods, particularly during my undergraduate dissertation, which focused on a lowspeed assessment of the drag produced by an aircraft’s landing gear configuration.

This wind tunnel experience helped me guide my further study into both lowspeed and high-speed aerodynamics applications and provided me with initial experience and understanding of experimental test techniques.

I have used the skills I learned at Loughborough University throughout my professional career and I am sure that I will continue to do so over the coming years.

Post 16 Education: A Levels Maths, Physics, Art, Design & Technology

Higher Education: BEng Aeronautical Engineering (at Loughborough), MSc Aerospace Dynamics (at Cranfield)

Why did you choose Aeronautical Engineering?

I had spent a number of years in the RAF Air Cadets prior to University, which gave me the aspiration to work in the aerospace industry. 

I didn’t know exactly what topic area I wanted to work in and I thought it would give me the opportunity to find out exactly what I wanted to do.

I didn’t find out until University that the Aerospace industry was so vast and that there were so many different jobs and areas of further work, which only made the choice a little harder!

Nevertheless, I wanted to study something that would allow me to problem solve and teach me more about aviation in general.

What was your degree about?

The Aeronautical Engineering degree is a solid introduction into the many areas of aerospace, from experimental wind tunnel testing to airframe and payload logistical design to structural design and modelling.

Luke’s experience as a student

The student spirit at Loughborough was amazing, a truly great experience which felt like one big family. There was a high level of support available, both academically and personally. 

During our third year, we had the chance to conduct a few days of flight test measurement and analysis in partnership with Cranfield University, whilst flying on the BAe Jetstream 31. The experience was thrilling and introduced me to Cranfield University, where I later continued my study on an MSc program.

Luke’s Career

Following my undergraduate degree, I undertook a Master's programme at Cranfield University, in Aerospace Dynamics.

I currently work as a Wind Tunnel Test Engineer (Aerodynamics Engineer) at the Aircraft Research Association (ARA) in Bedford, UK.

The main focus of my job role is as a Lead Technical Manager to several wind tunnel test programmes in our main Transonic Wind Tunnel, which is used to assess the aerodynamic flow characteristics over a number wind tunnel models.

I have worked with a wide range of customers over the two years I have been employed at ARA and have worked on projects within the civil and defence sectors in our main wind tunnel facility and in other smaller and specialist facilities. ARA provides a key link in the aerospace development cycle allowing for validation / complementation of computational assessment methods.