Engineer

Engineering is a broad professional field that encompasses the application of scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and maintain physical structures, machines, and systems. This career guide will provide an overview of the engineering field, including its various disciplines, educational requirements, and career paths. 

Educational Requirements

Most engineering positions require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited university. Some entry-level engineering positions may only require an associate's degree or equivalent work experience, however, these generally have limited job duties and slow career progression. Common engineering majors include civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering. 

Engineering programs typically include coursework in mathematics, science, and engineering fundamentals. Students will also complete design projects and laboratory work. 

Career Paths

After graduating with an engineering degree, individuals may pursue a career in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, energy, and transportation. Common engineering job titles include design engineer, project engineer, and manufacturing engineer. 

With experience, engineers may advance to management positions, such as engineering manager or director. Some engineers may also choose to specialize in a particular area, such as structural engineering or environmental engineering. 

Skills and Knowledge

Engineers must have a strong foundation in mathematics and science. They must also be able to think critically and solve problems. Additional skills that are important for engineers include:

• Communication skills
• Teamwork skills
• Computer literacy
• Project management skills
• Problem-solving skills

Tools and Equipment

Engineers use a variety of tools and equipment to complete their work. These tools may include:

• Computers
• Software
• Laboratory equipment
• Hand tools

Licensing and Certifications

Some engineering disciplines require licensure or certification. For example, civil engineers must be licensed in order to design and construct public works projects. Other engineering disciplines may offer voluntary certifications, which can demonstrate an engineer's knowledge and skills in a particular area. 

Career Growth

There are many opportunities for career growth in the engineering field. With experience and additional education, engineers may advance to management positions or specialize in a particular area. Some engineers may also choose to pursue a graduate degree in engineering or a related field. 

Transferable Skills

The skills that engineers develop in their careers are transferable to other fields. For example, engineers' problem-solving skills and critical thinking skills are valuable in many different industries. 

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

The day-to-day responsibilities of an engineer will vary depending on their discipline and job title. However, some common tasks include:

• Designing and developing products and systems
• Testing and evaluating products and systems
• Managing projects
• Supervising staff
• Writing reports

Challenges

Engineers may face a number of challenges in their careers. These challenges may include:

• Deadlines
• Budget constraints
• Technical problems
• Communication problems
• Ethical dilemmas

Projects

Engineers often work on projects that involve the design and development of new products or systems. These projects can be complex and challenging, but they can also be very rewarding. 

Personal Growth

Engineering is a career that offers many opportunities for personal growth. Engineers can learn new skills and knowledge, and they can develop their leadership abilities. 

Personality Traits and Interests

People who are successful in engineering careers tend to have certain personality traits and interests. These include:

• An interest in math and science
• A strong work ethic
• Good problem-solving skills
• Good communication skills
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team

Self-Guided Projects

There are many self-guided projects that students can complete to better prepare themselves for an engineering career. These projects can be found online or in libraries. 

Online Courses

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about engineering and to develop the skills needed for a career in this field. Online courses can be taken at your own pace, and they offer a variety of learning materials, such as lecture videos, projects, assignments, quizzes, exams, discussions, and interactive labs. 

While online courses alone may not be enough to qualify for an engineering position, they can be a helpful way to supplement your education and to improve your chances of success in this field.