6 answers
Sonderick
Student
1
Question
Asked
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How do I become an mechanical engineer?
Im a guy in High School graduating next year at Kirtland Central High School, A career I would like to try and be is a Mechanical Engineer. One of my favorite classes was Honors Anatomy & Philology class.
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6 answers
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
340
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Sonderick:
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
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.
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Mechanical Engineering!
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
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.
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Mechanical Engineering!
Andrea Duncan
Software Product Manager
1
Answer
Durham, North Carolina
Updated
Andrea’s Answer
Hello Sonderick,
I began my journey as a mechanical engineer, but I've since transitioned into a role as a product manager, collaborating closely with software engineers. It's entirely okay to shift gears and explore new avenues as you progress in your career. The beauty of mechanical engineering is its vast scope, encompassing a multitude of products, which presents you with a myriad of career options! Many of my peers ventured into manufacturing roles after earning their bachelor's degrees. As for me, I decided to pursue graduate school post-bachelor's as I was keen on playing a more significant role in the design life cycle, particularly in research and development.
To gain a better understanding of a typical day in the life of a mechanical engineer, I'd suggest internships, job shadowing, and networking with professionals in the field. Additionally, researching companies that employ mechanical engineers can be insightful. When it comes to education, ensure that you graduate from a university that is ABET accredited or will be by the time you graduate. Remember, it's entirely acceptable to start your college journey at a more affordable institution and then transfer to a university.
Have you given any thought to what type of mechanical engineer you aspire to be? Is there a specific product you're interested in contributing to? Which stage of the product life cycle piques your interest?
Remember, you have the ability to achieve your goals! Although the journey may be challenging, it's certainly not insurmountable. Keep believing in yourself and strive forward.
Best wishes,
Andrea Duncan
Data and AI Product Manager
(Former Mechanical Engineer)
I began my journey as a mechanical engineer, but I've since transitioned into a role as a product manager, collaborating closely with software engineers. It's entirely okay to shift gears and explore new avenues as you progress in your career. The beauty of mechanical engineering is its vast scope, encompassing a multitude of products, which presents you with a myriad of career options! Many of my peers ventured into manufacturing roles after earning their bachelor's degrees. As for me, I decided to pursue graduate school post-bachelor's as I was keen on playing a more significant role in the design life cycle, particularly in research and development.
To gain a better understanding of a typical day in the life of a mechanical engineer, I'd suggest internships, job shadowing, and networking with professionals in the field. Additionally, researching companies that employ mechanical engineers can be insightful. When it comes to education, ensure that you graduate from a university that is ABET accredited or will be by the time you graduate. Remember, it's entirely acceptable to start your college journey at a more affordable institution and then transfer to a university.
Have you given any thought to what type of mechanical engineer you aspire to be? Is there a specific product you're interested in contributing to? Which stage of the product life cycle piques your interest?
Remember, you have the ability to achieve your goals! Although the journey may be challenging, it's certainly not insurmountable. Keep believing in yourself and strive forward.
Best wishes,
Andrea Duncan
Data and AI Product Manager
(Former Mechanical Engineer)
Sheila Schultz
Engineering Leader
53
Answers
Brighton, Michigan
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hi Sonderick,
It is great to hear of your interest in mechanical engineering. A great foundation for this career is math and science classes. Mechanical engineers also would need a college degree. 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. I personally have a mechanical engineering background and have enjoyed many years as an engineer/engineering leader in the automotive industry. It is an exciting field to go into. Best wishes as you explore your future career options.
It is great to hear of your interest in mechanical engineering. A great foundation for this career is math and science classes. Mechanical engineers also would need a college degree. 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. I personally have a mechanical engineering background and have enjoyed many years as an engineer/engineering leader in the automotive industry. It is an exciting field to go into. Best wishes as you explore your future career options.
Mark Evans
Industrial Arts STEM Teacher
36
Answers
Crete, Illinois
Updated
Mark’s Answer
Earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering is indeed a challenging task, but it's absolutely attainable! You'll need to have a strong knack for math, but don't let that deter you. Start by enrolling in a local college to complete your general education courses. This is a smart move that will save you a significant amount of money! Once done, you can transition to a 4-year engineering program at a technical college or university. Remember, there's a fellow known as "the science guy," and guess what? His credentials are rooted in a Mechanical Engineering degree. So, you see, this degree can take you places! Keep pushing, you've got this!
Fred Rosenberger
Data Analyst
458
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Fred’s Answer
Generally, you'd go to a four year college and major in mechanical engineering. There may be a professional licensing exam you have to take if you want to work on your own, or you could possibly work under another engineer without it (I'm not sure about this - I am not an engineer).
You can also go on and earn a masters degree in engineering, which could open more doors and offer more opportunities, but that takes longer and costs more money.
You can also go on and earn a masters degree in engineering, which could open more doors and offer more opportunities, but that takes longer and costs more money.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6130
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Sonderick,
Guidelines to Becoming a Mechanical Engineer
To embark on a career as a mechanical engineer, follow these actionable steps:
1. Education:
High School: Begin with relevant high school courses like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and computer science. These will lay a solid groundwork for your engineering studies.
Bachelor’s Degree: Enroll in a mechanical engineering bachelor's degree at an accredited institution. This four-year program includes subjects such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and mechanical design.
2. Gain Experience:
Internships: Seek internships or co-op programs during your undergraduate years to acquire hands-on experience. This will not only improve your skills but also make you more appealing to future employers.
Research Opportunities: Participate in mechanical engineering research projects to deepen your understanding and expertise.
3. Obtain Licensure:
Professional Engineer (PE) License: Although not always required, securing a PE license can boost your credibility and expand your job prospects. To get licensed, you generally need a degree from an ABET-accredited program, relevant work experience, and successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams.
4. Specialize:
Graduate Studies: If you're interested in advancing your career or specializing in a specific area such as robotics, aerospace, or automotive engineering, think about pursuing a master’s degree or Ph.D. in mechanical engineering.
5. Continuous Learning:
Professional Development: Keep up with the latest developments in the field by attending workshops, seminars, and earning certifications that showcase your expertise.
By diligently following these steps and staying dedicated to your goal of becoming a mechanical engineer, you can create a successful career path in this exciting field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME): ASME is a respected professional organization that offers valuable resources for budding mechanical engineers, including education requirements, licensure, industry trends, and networking opportunities.
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE): NSPE provides advice on licensure requirements for engineers in the United States and advocates for high professional standards within the engineering community.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers extensive data on the job outlook for mechanical engineers, including job opportunities, salary details, and educational requirements based on national statistics and trends.
These resources were crucial in providing reliable and accurate information on building a career as a mechanical engineer.
Blessings,
JC.
Guidelines to Becoming a Mechanical Engineer
To embark on a career as a mechanical engineer, follow these actionable steps:
1. Education:
High School: Begin with relevant high school courses like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and computer science. These will lay a solid groundwork for your engineering studies.
Bachelor’s Degree: Enroll in a mechanical engineering bachelor's degree at an accredited institution. This four-year program includes subjects such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and mechanical design.
2. Gain Experience:
Internships: Seek internships or co-op programs during your undergraduate years to acquire hands-on experience. This will not only improve your skills but also make you more appealing to future employers.
Research Opportunities: Participate in mechanical engineering research projects to deepen your understanding and expertise.
3. Obtain Licensure:
Professional Engineer (PE) License: Although not always required, securing a PE license can boost your credibility and expand your job prospects. To get licensed, you generally need a degree from an ABET-accredited program, relevant work experience, and successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams.
4. Specialize:
Graduate Studies: If you're interested in advancing your career or specializing in a specific area such as robotics, aerospace, or automotive engineering, think about pursuing a master’s degree or Ph.D. in mechanical engineering.
5. Continuous Learning:
Professional Development: Keep up with the latest developments in the field by attending workshops, seminars, and earning certifications that showcase your expertise.
By diligently following these steps and staying dedicated to your goal of becoming a mechanical engineer, you can create a successful career path in this exciting field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME): ASME is a respected professional organization that offers valuable resources for budding mechanical engineers, including education requirements, licensure, industry trends, and networking opportunities.
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE): NSPE provides advice on licensure requirements for engineers in the United States and advocates for high professional standards within the engineering community.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers extensive data on the job outlook for mechanical engineers, including job opportunities, salary details, and educational requirements based on national statistics and trends.
These resources were crucial in providing reliable and accurate information on building a career as a mechanical engineer.
Blessings,
JC.