3 answers
Lisamarie
Student
Robstown, Texas
3
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Asked
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What are some obstacles i should tackle that will show me what being a chemical engineer is really like?
i want a taste of the chem engineer life is it bland with little flavor or alive with disease #chemistry #chemical-engineering #chemical-engineer #chemicals
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3 answers
Logan Terheggen
Assistant Engineer at Savannah River Remediation LLC
14
Answers
Aiken, South Carolina
Updated
Logan’s Answer
It's the bland answer you've probably heard a thousand times. But the best way to know is to get an internship or co-op honestly. Learning the concepts is one thing, but you never quite know what it's like till you do it. The closest other thing would be to apply as a labor position in a manufacturing plant. You'll likely encounter a chem e and can pick their brains. Other than that, there is no better way.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6075
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Lisamarie,
Ways to Dive into the World of Chemical Engineering
If you're keen on exploring the world of a chemical engineer and getting a real feel for the profession, here are several steps you can take:
Internships or Co-op Programs: One of the most effective ways to step into the shoes of a chemical engineer is by landing an internship or joining a co-op program. These practical experiences will offer you a glimpse into the daily tasks, challenges, and responsibilities that a chemical engineer encounters.
Labor Position in a Manufacturing Plant: Alternatively, you could consider applying for a labor role in a manufacturing plant where you're bound to interact with chemical engineers. This could serve as a platform for you to observe and learn from seasoned professionals in the field.
Networking and Informational Interviews: Make an effort to connect with practicing chemical engineers for informational interviews or attend networking events within the industry. Interacting with professionals can offer you invaluable insights into the realities of working as a chemical engineer.
Research Projects and Extracurricular Activities: Getting involved in research projects related to chemical engineering or participating in relevant extracurricular activities can also aid you in gaining a more profound understanding of the field and its challenges.
Continuing Education and Skill Development: Stay on top of the latest trends, technologies, and advancements in chemical engineering by pursuing further education, attending workshops, or earning certifications.
Is Chemical Engineering Monotonous or Bursting with Variety?
Far from being monotonous, chemical engineering is a vibrant and diverse field that presents a plethora of opportunities and challenges. As a chemical engineer, you might find yourself developing new materials, designing processes for manufacturing products, optimizing production systems, conducting research, or tackling intricate problems related to energy, environment, and health.
Chemical engineers hold a pivotal role in a variety of industries including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, energy production, environmental protection, food processing, and more. The field calls for creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a solid grounding in chemistry, physics, and engineering principles.
While certain aspects of chemical engineering may involve routine tasks or technical calculations, the profession, on the whole, is teeming with innovation, discovery, and the possibility to make a substantial impact on society.
In conclusion, seizing opportunities like internships, networking with professionals, immersing in hands-on experiences, and keeping abreast of industry developments are vital steps to obtaining a well-rounded understanding of what it means to be a chemical engineer.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:
AIChE Careers
AIChE Students Chapter
Princeton Review – Career Guide
These sources offer valuable insights on careers in chemical engineering, perspectives from professionals in the field, and guidance for individuals keen on carving out a career in this dynamic industry.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Ways to Dive into the World of Chemical Engineering
If you're keen on exploring the world of a chemical engineer and getting a real feel for the profession, here are several steps you can take:
Internships or Co-op Programs: One of the most effective ways to step into the shoes of a chemical engineer is by landing an internship or joining a co-op program. These practical experiences will offer you a glimpse into the daily tasks, challenges, and responsibilities that a chemical engineer encounters.
Labor Position in a Manufacturing Plant: Alternatively, you could consider applying for a labor role in a manufacturing plant where you're bound to interact with chemical engineers. This could serve as a platform for you to observe and learn from seasoned professionals in the field.
Networking and Informational Interviews: Make an effort to connect with practicing chemical engineers for informational interviews or attend networking events within the industry. Interacting with professionals can offer you invaluable insights into the realities of working as a chemical engineer.
Research Projects and Extracurricular Activities: Getting involved in research projects related to chemical engineering or participating in relevant extracurricular activities can also aid you in gaining a more profound understanding of the field and its challenges.
Continuing Education and Skill Development: Stay on top of the latest trends, technologies, and advancements in chemical engineering by pursuing further education, attending workshops, or earning certifications.
Is Chemical Engineering Monotonous or Bursting with Variety?
Far from being monotonous, chemical engineering is a vibrant and diverse field that presents a plethora of opportunities and challenges. As a chemical engineer, you might find yourself developing new materials, designing processes for manufacturing products, optimizing production systems, conducting research, or tackling intricate problems related to energy, environment, and health.
Chemical engineers hold a pivotal role in a variety of industries including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, energy production, environmental protection, food processing, and more. The field calls for creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a solid grounding in chemistry, physics, and engineering principles.
While certain aspects of chemical engineering may involve routine tasks or technical calculations, the profession, on the whole, is teeming with innovation, discovery, and the possibility to make a substantial impact on society.
In conclusion, seizing opportunities like internships, networking with professionals, immersing in hands-on experiences, and keeping abreast of industry developments are vital steps to obtaining a well-rounded understanding of what it means to be a chemical engineer.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:
AIChE Careers
AIChE Students Chapter
Princeton Review – Career Guide
These sources offer valuable insights on careers in chemical engineering, perspectives from professionals in the field, and guidance for individuals keen on carving out a career in this dynamic industry.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Galdino Rosas
Software Engineer
4
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Galdino’s Answer
I think each person will perceive the chemical engineer life differently. For new chemical engineers I imagine the work life would be a cross between working in a chem/physics college lab with using statistical software to validate your results. I had to do this for a few year right out of college. Some people thinks this is really fun while others can view it differently. To each their own :)