What are some benefits of being an engineer? (If There is) If there is no answer to that, what is the easiest part of being an engineer?
I want to know if there is any benefits that can help me if I'm an engineer. I also want to know the easiest part of being an engineer. #technology
3 answers
Chai’s Answer
Ryan,
Great question. Most of us figure quite later in our careers true benefits of engineering. In addition to learning a new life / job skill, some of the things that comes mind are below :-
Logical / Analytical thinking :- Seems quite obvious. But going through the engineering courses forces to you break down complex problems in a logical manner, evaluate each step in isolation and collate the results back up. Learning this in a time bound manner in various fields of study give a method to brain to confidently approach tough problems.For E.g. Launching a satellite in space needs breaking down complex problems in fields like structural engineering, aeronautical engineering, computer engineering, chemical engineering.
Optimization Philosophy :- Going through engineering courses will teach you the skill of solving of different needs / constraints. Not all problems have perfect solutions but all problems can have optimal solutions based on the constraints. Some of the world's current technologies have been born out of optimizing for constraints. For E.g. Internet bandwidth. Ideally everyone wants unlimited speed and unlimited data but how to provide minimum - maximum ranges based on needs to service everybody.
Time Management :- Most of us are productive when we are under a time constraints. The sheer complexity and # of courses that is need to get the credits to complete an engineering degree will put you through the paces to manage your time better and become more productive
Personal Strengths / Weakness :- Engineering Subjects generally have higher complexity compared to high school level. Some courses would come naturally to you but some will take time, patience and effort. I used be good with Math but engineering drawing was always a challenge. So learning what I am good at vs. what would need more effort helped me plan better for future projects and seek help from others where I struggled.
Hope this helps and all the very best in the future.
Michael’s Answer
Awesome question and good answers so far, I had the same questions myself as I entered into technology. Some additional things that come to mind for me are:
1. Be Bold and Willing to Adapt to Change - you must be willing to take a chance, take a shot and try different solutions. Do not get stuck just doing what you are comfortable with. You will need to learn many new/emerging technologies, so do not limit yourself to one language or approach to solutions.
2. DO NOT BE AFRAID OF FAILURE - you have to be able to learn from failure, and the only way you truly learn anything in life is by trying, you will not learn without trying and if you try, chances are you may (will) fail many times. You must be able to pick yourself up and try again, but learn from it!
3. Listen! - As engineers or architects, often we want to solve problems and be the hero. However, we all have things we are good or not so good at, and you will be working with team members who also have strengths and weaknesses. Be willing to listen to others ideas, approaches, solutions, etc. and not always feel like you have to solve everything on your own!
Good luck!!! You are looking into a great field that can provide a lasting and rewarding career, be bold and give it your best! We all fail, the only thing that will hold you back is not trying so learn from it!
Jerome’s Answer
Depending on the field you select, the work can be interesting, the pay / benefits attractive, and the process of keeping up with all of the developments may keep you excited and engaged regarding what's going on. On the other hand, some of the processes will be somewhat boring and you might find that requirement to keep up with constant change and updates exhausting. There is also the possibility in some fields that your job will be offshored or that a cheaper replacement will be found to fill your function.
Overall, though, it's a great field to be in. There's no "easy" way to get in and stay in, though; if you're looking for "easy", then I'd suggest looking elsewhere.