Question: why did you choose to be an engineer and not a pilot?

Nathan Quinlan answered on 11 Feb 2015:

I applied to an airline, but they wouldn’t have me 🙁 . Later I realised they were right. Pilots have to be constantly alert for any sign of trouble, and they have make complex decisions very quickly if trouble comes. I would be a terrible pilot. I like to take time to think things over, delve into great detail, and follow interesting side-projects if possible – research engineering is perfect for me.

I have had a few hours of flying lessons in a small plane, and a go in a 737 simulator -both were wonderful.