6 answers
Samuel
Student
Palmer, Alaska
2
Questions
Asked
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What do Mechanical Engineers do How long does training/courses take to be a mechanical engineer??
Will all the training be worth it?
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6 answers
Roberto Fernandez
Servant Leader Apprentice
44
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Roberto’s Answer
There are excellent, practical answers to your question already. I'll try to address it from a more philosophical angle.
Engineers, in general, make the possible, practical. Engineers move ideas forwards and solve problems by applying scientific knowledge in order to bring about solutions that are both practical and economical. Expanding with some example: scientists may discover that a certain new material has physical properties that make it suitable for hypothetical applications with the potential of solving a problem. Engineers find the way to actually devise the processes and mechanisms in order make it possible at a scale outside of the lab. Engineers are called in sometimes even in order to make the experiments possible .
A mechanical engineer is easier to imagine designing engines and machines of all kinds, putting in practice the physics behind aerodynamics and rocketry in order to come up with the mechanisms that actually make airplanes and rocket fly. Understanding the applications of thermodynamics and designing/building boilers and climate control systems. Understanding of movement, material resistance and even some electricity and building big turbines and generators. I'd say that Mechanical engineers deal with practical aspects of processes around mater and movement.
Nowadays Mechanical Engineers have taken a back seat just within the general popular culture but not in real life. We, humans, are still mechanical beings, and most of our daily interaction happens with mechanical objects of one kind of the other. We travel, we consume energy and we drink water every day. Who is behind the systems and mechanisms that make that possible. Your guess is correct.
Al in all we do not have enough engineers, not even close so I'm excited every time some young person such as yourself is interested.
I wish you good luck !
Engineers, in general, make the possible, practical. Engineers move ideas forwards and solve problems by applying scientific knowledge in order to bring about solutions that are both practical and economical. Expanding with some example: scientists may discover that a certain new material has physical properties that make it suitable for hypothetical applications with the potential of solving a problem. Engineers find the way to actually devise the processes and mechanisms in order make it possible at a scale outside of the lab. Engineers are called in sometimes even in order to make the experiments possible .
A mechanical engineer is easier to imagine designing engines and machines of all kinds, putting in practice the physics behind aerodynamics and rocketry in order to come up with the mechanisms that actually make airplanes and rocket fly. Understanding the applications of thermodynamics and designing/building boilers and climate control systems. Understanding of movement, material resistance and even some electricity and building big turbines and generators. I'd say that Mechanical engineers deal with practical aspects of processes around mater and movement.
Nowadays Mechanical Engineers have taken a back seat just within the general popular culture but not in real life. We, humans, are still mechanical beings, and most of our daily interaction happens with mechanical objects of one kind of the other. We travel, we consume energy and we drink water every day. Who is behind the systems and mechanisms that make that possible. Your guess is correct.
Al in all we do not have enough engineers, not even close so I'm excited every time some young person such as yourself is interested.
I wish you good luck !
Sheila Schultz
Engineering Leader
56
Answers
Brighton, Michigan
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Thanks for the great question.
I am a mechanical engineer by training, and so I will comment on what was interesting for me over my career. Mechanical engineering is a fantastic foundation for many roles. I had the opportunity to work in the automotive and defense industries. Initially, I leveraged my skills in the thermal area where I worked on requirements creation, vehicle development/validation testing (including testing at our proving grounds and out in Death Valley), building analytical models, and designing/releasing HVAC/Powertrain Cooling related systems. Next, I had the opportunity to work as a Vehicle Systems Integration engineer for Propulsion systems which included early vehicle concept, development, and production activities. After this, I shifted to system safety role which included software, controls, and physical part safety. Most recently, I led a team for the Advanced System Integration of defense/military vehicles and projects. The mechanical engineering foundation enabled me to have a wide variety of career experiences.
A great foundation for this career is math and science classes. To be a mechanical engineer, you would need to go to university for 4 years. Many people enter programs which offer co-op/internships. For these, you can work a few of your school terms. This enables work experience, different career areas to experience, and an opportunity to earn money along the way. For these programs, it could take 5+ years. Mechanical engineering also has many focus areas, so you can pick the area(s) that you find the most interesting. Some examples include: Thermal systems/fluids, Mechanical Structures, Materials, and Automotive design.
Best wishes to you as you explore your future career.
I am a mechanical engineer by training, and so I will comment on what was interesting for me over my career. Mechanical engineering is a fantastic foundation for many roles. I had the opportunity to work in the automotive and defense industries. Initially, I leveraged my skills in the thermal area where I worked on requirements creation, vehicle development/validation testing (including testing at our proving grounds and out in Death Valley), building analytical models, and designing/releasing HVAC/Powertrain Cooling related systems. Next, I had the opportunity to work as a Vehicle Systems Integration engineer for Propulsion systems which included early vehicle concept, development, and production activities. After this, I shifted to system safety role which included software, controls, and physical part safety. Most recently, I led a team for the Advanced System Integration of defense/military vehicles and projects. The mechanical engineering foundation enabled me to have a wide variety of career experiences.
A great foundation for this career is math and science classes. To be a mechanical engineer, you would need to go to university for 4 years. Many people enter programs which offer co-op/internships. For these, you can work a few of your school terms. This enables work experience, different career areas to experience, and an opportunity to earn money along the way. For these programs, it could take 5+ years. Mechanical engineering also has many focus areas, so you can pick the area(s) that you find the most interesting. Some examples include: Thermal systems/fluids, Mechanical Structures, Materials, and Automotive design.
Best wishes to you as you explore your future career.
Cheryl Caffrey
Mechanical Engineer at US EPA NVFEL
7
Answers
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Updated
Cheryl’s Answer
Being in Palmer Alaska I imagine you have seen ships coming into Anchorage - these ships are designed by naval architects who very likely have a bachelors in Mechanical Engineering with a Naval Architect degree after that (the University of Michigan offers such a degree). I have met several naval architects and it is a very exciting field and one which California vessel owners may need in order to help them meet their reduced emission standards through use of Selective Reduction Catalysts (for NOx) and DPFs (for PM). As noted by others on this thread, a Mechanical Engineering degree offers you many pathways in life. Unlike several others I have spent 32 years at one place - the US Environmental Protection Agency - working on emission reduction technical feasible studies across a number of sectors from small engines (lawnmowers, garden tractors, etc.) to harbor craft (lobster boats, pilot boats, etc.). I have learned so much about emission reduction technologies in many mobile source sectors, the role of politics in emission regulations, participating on an international group to set common standards across the world, creating studies to address areas of concern which management needs to know about in regulation development, etc. The main thing in the work life is to pick a profession in which you can constantly be learning - at least for me this is very important. In terms of internships during college - these are very important to build your resume. USA JOBS has a listing of US government internships and jobs. The openings are usually one to two weeks so check regularly. If you aren't able to get an internship after your freshman year then just find something that you are interested in which may help you figure out what you would like to do with your degree once you are done. Life is a journey and enjoy it - just keep putting one foot in front of the other - there are no right or wrong answers - just keep your head focused on where you want to go and you will get there. Good luck!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6193
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hey there, Samuel!
Mechanical engineers are like the wizards of the modern world, crafting, designing, and testing everything from simple tools to complex engines and machines. They're the backbone of numerous industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and manufacturing. Their magic lies in their ability to solve problems using mechanical and thermal devices, redesign these devices using computer-aided design, diagnose and fix faulty equipment, and even create and test new prototypes.
Typically, these engineers work in offices, but they're not always desk-bound. They may visit worksites to troubleshoot equipment issues or to observe how things are made. They're team players, often working alongside scientists who come up with new theories and methods, and technicians who bring the devices to life.
To become one of these modern-day wizards, you'll need a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a similar field. This journey usually takes around four years of full-time study. Some universities offer accelerated five-year programs that give you both a bachelor's and a master's degree. The curriculum is packed with exciting subjects like fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and mechanical design.
After earning their bachelor's degree, many mechanical engineers choose to continue their education to boost their career prospects. This could mean getting a master's degree or even a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering or a related field.
The value of this education varies from person to person. It depends on your career goals, the job market, and your personal interests. But for those who love designing and creating new technologies, solving complex problems, and working in a variety of industries, becoming a mechanical engineer is definitely worth it. It's a field that's wide open with opportunities for specialization and advancement.
To sum it up, becoming a mechanical engineer involves getting a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a similar field, which usually takes about four years of full-time study. You can also pursue further education for career advancement. The value of this education depends on your personal goals and circumstances.
Here are the top 3 authoritative reference publications for you to check out:
1. National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
2. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Department of Mechanical Engineering
Wishing you all the best and may you be blessed with success!
Cheers,
James.
Mechanical engineers are like the wizards of the modern world, crafting, designing, and testing everything from simple tools to complex engines and machines. They're the backbone of numerous industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and manufacturing. Their magic lies in their ability to solve problems using mechanical and thermal devices, redesign these devices using computer-aided design, diagnose and fix faulty equipment, and even create and test new prototypes.
Typically, these engineers work in offices, but they're not always desk-bound. They may visit worksites to troubleshoot equipment issues or to observe how things are made. They're team players, often working alongside scientists who come up with new theories and methods, and technicians who bring the devices to life.
To become one of these modern-day wizards, you'll need a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a similar field. This journey usually takes around four years of full-time study. Some universities offer accelerated five-year programs that give you both a bachelor's and a master's degree. The curriculum is packed with exciting subjects like fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and mechanical design.
After earning their bachelor's degree, many mechanical engineers choose to continue their education to boost their career prospects. This could mean getting a master's degree or even a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering or a related field.
The value of this education varies from person to person. It depends on your career goals, the job market, and your personal interests. But for those who love designing and creating new technologies, solving complex problems, and working in a variety of industries, becoming a mechanical engineer is definitely worth it. It's a field that's wide open with opportunities for specialization and advancement.
To sum it up, becoming a mechanical engineer involves getting a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a similar field, which usually takes about four years of full-time study. You can also pursue further education for career advancement. The value of this education depends on your personal goals and circumstances.
Here are the top 3 authoritative reference publications for you to check out:
1. National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
2. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Department of Mechanical Engineering
Wishing you all the best and may you be blessed with success!
Cheers,
James.
Mark Fry
Cloud Backend Software Developer
4
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Mark’s Answer
Hello Samuel,
As echoed in Michael's response, the career possibilities with a mechanical engineering degree are vast and exciting. The horizon is truly boundless. Essentially, mechanical engineers are problem solvers, using mechanical systems or solutions to design, develop, analyze, test, and manufacture solutions. This could involve anything from creating parts for machinery such as pumps, turbines, appliances, automobiles, aircraft, spacecraft, to medical devices and so much more.
I am a proud alumnus of LSU, where I earned both my bachelor's and master's degrees in mechanical engineering. Many of my classmates found rewarding careers as project engineers in various oil and gas companies, working on upstream operations or maintaining local refineries. My career path, however, led me to Boeing, where I started as a design engineer for the 747-8 commercial jet. As a design engineer, I collaborated with other engineers to modify aircraft designs to meet manufacturing or performance requirements, creating drawings and 3D models using computer-aided design software.
After a year, I transitioned into a structural analyst role. In this role, I analyzed parts to ensure they could withstand the loads and environments they would encounter throughout their lifespan. For instance, one might assess whether the aircraft's outer skin could withstand the cabin's internal pressure or if the wings could handle the force of lift. I spent nearly a decade in this role, even getting the opportunity to work on spacecraft and rockets that made their way into space. I later leveraged the programming and coding skills I acquired during my time as a structural analyst to transition into a software development role.
Mechanical engineers also have the option to pursue less technical roles, such as engineering management, running businesses with technical products or solutions, or even becoming a patent attorney.
When I was studying, it typically took students around five years to earn a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, and I believe this is still the norm. However, it is possible to complete the program in four years.
The effort and time you put into your training will be worthwhile if it leads you to a career you are passionate about and will enjoy. Mechanical engineers are also generally well compensated. If you can find a mechanical engineering program that won't break the bank, it should be a worthwhile investment. Look for colleges offering reduced tuition or scholarships. Michael's response provides more details on this aspect. All in all, pursuing a mechanical engineering degree is a decision you're unlikely to regret.
As echoed in Michael's response, the career possibilities with a mechanical engineering degree are vast and exciting. The horizon is truly boundless. Essentially, mechanical engineers are problem solvers, using mechanical systems or solutions to design, develop, analyze, test, and manufacture solutions. This could involve anything from creating parts for machinery such as pumps, turbines, appliances, automobiles, aircraft, spacecraft, to medical devices and so much more.
I am a proud alumnus of LSU, where I earned both my bachelor's and master's degrees in mechanical engineering. Many of my classmates found rewarding careers as project engineers in various oil and gas companies, working on upstream operations or maintaining local refineries. My career path, however, led me to Boeing, where I started as a design engineer for the 747-8 commercial jet. As a design engineer, I collaborated with other engineers to modify aircraft designs to meet manufacturing or performance requirements, creating drawings and 3D models using computer-aided design software.
After a year, I transitioned into a structural analyst role. In this role, I analyzed parts to ensure they could withstand the loads and environments they would encounter throughout their lifespan. For instance, one might assess whether the aircraft's outer skin could withstand the cabin's internal pressure or if the wings could handle the force of lift. I spent nearly a decade in this role, even getting the opportunity to work on spacecraft and rockets that made their way into space. I later leveraged the programming and coding skills I acquired during my time as a structural analyst to transition into a software development role.
Mechanical engineers also have the option to pursue less technical roles, such as engineering management, running businesses with technical products or solutions, or even becoming a patent attorney.
When I was studying, it typically took students around five years to earn a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, and I believe this is still the norm. However, it is possible to complete the program in four years.
The effort and time you put into your training will be worthwhile if it leads you to a career you are passionate about and will enjoy. Mechanical engineers are also generally well compensated. If you can find a mechanical engineering program that won't break the bank, it should be a worthwhile investment. Look for colleges offering reduced tuition or scholarships. Michael's response provides more details on this aspect. All in all, pursuing a mechanical engineering degree is a decision you're unlikely to regret.
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
344
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Samuel:
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Mechanical Engineering. Physics and chemistry will be the core science courses. For math, statistics and calculus will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail and observation skills; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration amongst team members, partner departments and clients occur on a daily basis. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills since analysis reports are generated and findings are presented to colleagues and other professionals who deal with Mechanical Engineering. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers. They can help guide your educational pathway for Mechanical Engineering.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Mechanical Engineering:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Stanford University
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Purdue University (West Lafayette)
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- California Institute of Technology
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Texas (Austin)
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/engineering-doctorate-mechanical
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are some top careers in Mechanical Engineering:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Automotive Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Business Executive
- Construction Engineer
- Entrepreneur
- Intellectual Property Attorney
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Management Consultant
- Mechanical Engineer
- Patent Lawyer
- Production Engineer
- Project Lead
- Project Manager
- Petroleum Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Product Designer
- Quality Engineer
- Sales Engineer
- Structural Engineer
- Technology Specialist
- Thermal Engineer
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/articles/what-you-can-do-with-a-mechanical-engineering-degree
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Mechanical Engineering!
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Mechanical Engineering. Physics and chemistry will be the core science courses. For math, statistics and calculus will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail and observation skills; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration amongst team members, partner departments and clients occur on a daily basis. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills since analysis reports are generated and findings are presented to colleagues and other professionals who deal with Mechanical Engineering. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers. They can help guide your educational pathway for Mechanical Engineering.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Mechanical Engineering:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Stanford University
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Purdue University (West Lafayette)
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- California Institute of Technology
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Texas (Austin)
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/engineering-doctorate-mechanical
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are some top careers in Mechanical Engineering:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Automotive Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Business Executive
- Construction Engineer
- Entrepreneur
- Intellectual Property Attorney
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Management Consultant
- Mechanical Engineer
- Patent Lawyer
- Production Engineer
- Project Lead
- Project Manager
- Petroleum Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Product Designer
- Quality Engineer
- Sales Engineer
- Structural Engineer
- Technology Specialist
- Thermal Engineer
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/articles/what-you-can-do-with-a-mechanical-engineering-degree
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Mechanical Engineering!