Alan,
I in no way mean to demean aircraft maintenance engineers, because I am one. With a degree in Aeronautical Engineering, don't you want to set your sights higher?
I became (a few years ago now) a maintenance engineer on the strength of an unspectacular education and a Forces apprenticeship.
I enjoy my job, and I find it rewarding......as you may well do if you go down that road. But you don't need a degree to change an engine, know that a hydraulic NRV is leaking, re-rack a 'black box' or, indeed, read a maintenance manual.
There is weight in the arguement that some years with 'hands-on' experience under your belt could make you a more 'rounded' engineer, but don't lose sight of the possibilities open to you.
