2 answers
2
Updated 916 views

What is the best way to become a Architecture and Engineering Manager?

I'm a highschooler and I want to know what all I can do to become what I want to be in the future

engineering architecture whole-building-design
Answer This

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you
2

2 answers

0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Eric’s Answer

Micah, good question, thanks.
The very first thing I would do is get in the consrtuction industry working so you truly understand how buildings & structures go together. You can do this while going to school for Architecture or Engineering. Trust me this will put at the top of your class and light years ahead even some seasoned professionals. I've been in these industries over 35 years and that's exactly how I did it and I currently run two offices in two different states.

Hope that helps.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Peter’s Answer

If you really want a career as an engineering or architectural manager, first you need to become an engineer or architect. I will talk about the engineering side, as I had a decades-long career in the engineering profession. You'll need to commit to a 4-year engineering degree at a reputable college. I studied as a Civil Engineer, but there are a dozen, or so, engineering programs you can pursue. After graduation, you then join an engineering firm as an entry-level engineer. You'll typically need 5 to 10 years of experience before you are in position to be promoted to a Manager slot. Along the way, it would be a good move to pursue a Masters Degree in an area of your profession where you see good future opportunity. You will also need to obtain a professional engineering license by taking and passing a state engineering exam in your profession. After 5-10 years working at the technical level, many engineers face a decision. They can continue doing technical work for the rest of their careers or they can seek to move into management within the engineering firm. It sounds like you would like to seek the latter, but that can change. Understand that management involves working effectively in motivating and directing other professionals. And this involves a different skillset from that of your technical competency in engineering. You will also likely be tasked with drumming up new business for your Firm.

As I've outlined above, the path to management in an engineering or architectural firm is long and complex. But it can also be very rewarding, both professionally and salary-wise.

Peter recommends the following next steps:

Look into the various types of engineering to see if a particular branch appeals to you. Don't sweat this too much, however. You can delay a decision until at least your Sophomore Year in College, allowing you to take various engineering courses.
Look into the engineering programs of the universities nearest you. I strongly suggest you attend a 4-year college that offers a wide variety of engineering degrees.
0