4 answers
Polo
Student
Yuma, Arizona
2
Questions
Asked
194 views
How can I be a engineer
How can I become a mechanical engineer and what education do I have to take for engineering and what college degree do I need to apply for being a engineer
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4 answers
Sheila Schultz
Engineering Leader
48
Answers
Brighton, Michigan
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hi Polo,
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 basis for many roles.
A great foundation for this career is math and science classes. To be an 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.
There are many types of engineering – Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, Software, Industrial, Manufacturing and more. For mechanical engineering, there are also many sub-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 have enjoyed my career with my engineering foundation. I currently lead a company which helps businesses operate more efficiently using software tools and artificial intelligence aids. Prior to this, I led a team for the Advanced System Integration of defense/military vehicles and projects. In addition, I had many other roles in my career in the automotive industry including thermal engineer, design/release engineer, vehicle systems engineer, system safety engineer, and a variety of engineering leader roles. The mechanical engineering foundation enabled me to have a wide variety of career experiences.
Best wishes to you as you explore your future career.
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 basis for many roles.
A great foundation for this career is math and science classes. To be an 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.
There are many types of engineering – Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, Software, Industrial, Manufacturing and more. For mechanical engineering, there are also many sub-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 have enjoyed my career with my engineering foundation. I currently lead a company which helps businesses operate more efficiently using software tools and artificial intelligence aids. Prior to this, I led a team for the Advanced System Integration of defense/military vehicles and projects. In addition, I had many other roles in my career in the automotive industry including thermal engineer, design/release engineer, vehicle systems engineer, system safety engineer, and a variety of engineering leader roles. The mechanical engineering foundation enabled me to have a wide variety of career experiences.
Best wishes to you as you explore your future career.
Cliff Schreier
25
Answers
Rochester, Minnesota
Updated
Cliff’s Answer
Polo,
Excellent questions!
Mechanical engineers are people who are adept at math and science. I became an electrical engineer years ago and the college curriculum included 2 years of advanced math (Calculus and Differential equations is what I took). It also required multiple years of science (Chemistry and Physics) and Statics/Dynamics was required as well.
Those were the basics courses required before you got into your specific major education. Your mechanical engineering courses will be required and are quite challenging as well.
Do you know someone who is a mechanical engineer? If so, you should try to shadow them. If you don't, you could ask family, friends, or school counselors if they can help you find someone as they can give you great advice and likely even show you their place of work.
Have you applied to a college yet? Have you taken admissions tests (ACT/SAT/etc.)? Those are all important as well.
Best of luck to you!
Excellent questions!
Mechanical engineers are people who are adept at math and science. I became an electrical engineer years ago and the college curriculum included 2 years of advanced math (Calculus and Differential equations is what I took). It also required multiple years of science (Chemistry and Physics) and Statics/Dynamics was required as well.
Those were the basics courses required before you got into your specific major education. Your mechanical engineering courses will be required and are quite challenging as well.
Do you know someone who is a mechanical engineer? If so, you should try to shadow them. If you don't, you could ask family, friends, or school counselors if they can help you find someone as they can give you great advice and likely even show you their place of work.
Have you applied to a college yet? Have you taken admissions tests (ACT/SAT/etc.)? Those are all important as well.
Best of luck to you!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
5777
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Polo!
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer
Becoming a mechanical engineer involves several steps, including education, gaining relevant experience, and obtaining necessary certifications. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
1. Understand the Role of a Mechanical Engineer Mechanical engineers design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems. They work in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing. Understanding the responsibilities and skills required for this profession is crucial before pursuing it.
2. Educational Requirements To become a mechanical engineer, you typically need to follow these educational steps:
High School Diploma or Equivalent: Focus on subjects like mathematics (especially calculus), physics, and chemistry during high school. These subjects form the foundation for engineering principles.
Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering:
Enroll in an accredited engineering program. Accreditation from organizations like the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is essential as it ensures that the program meets industry standards.
A typical bachelor’s degree program includes coursework in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, structural analysis, and computer-aided design (CAD).
Most programs also require hands-on laboratory work and projects that provide practical experience.
Internships or Co-op Programs: Participating in internships or cooperative education programs while studying can provide valuable real-world experience and help build professional networks.
3. Obtain Professional Experience After earning your degree:
Entry-Level Positions: Start working in entry-level positions related to mechanical engineering. This could be as a junior engineer or technician where you can apply your knowledge practically.
Mentorship: Seek mentorship from experienced engineers who can guide you through your early career stages.
4. Consider Licensure In many regions, becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) can enhance job prospects:
Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: After graduation, take the FE exam to become an Engineer-in-Training (EIT). This is often the first step toward licensure.
Work Experience: Gain four years of relevant work experience under a licensed PE.
Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam: After meeting the experience requirement, you can take the PE exam specific to mechanical engineering.
5. Continuing Education Mechanical engineering is an evolving field; thus:
Stay updated with new technologies and methodologies by participating in workshops, seminars, or additional courses.
Consider pursuing a master’s degree or specialized certifications if you wish to advance further in your career or specialize in areas such as robotics or aerospace engineering.
6. Job Search Once you have completed your education and gained some experience:
Prepare a strong resume highlighting your education, internships, projects, and any relevant skills.
Utilize job search platforms specifically tailored for engineers or general job boards to find openings in mechanical engineering.
In summary, becoming a mechanical engineer requires dedication to education through obtaining at least a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from an accredited institution followed by gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level jobs. Additionally, pursuing licensure may enhance career opportunities.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
This organization provides accreditation for college programs in applied science, computing, engineering, and technology. Their guidelines ensure that educational programs meet quality standards necessary for preparing students for their careers.
2. National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
The NSPE offers resources regarding licensure requirements for engineers across different states in the U.S., along with information on continuing education opportunities for professional development.
3. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides comprehensive data on employment statistics for various professions including mechanical engineers—detailing job outlooks, salary ranges, educational requirements, and industry trends.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer
Becoming a mechanical engineer involves several steps, including education, gaining relevant experience, and obtaining necessary certifications. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
1. Understand the Role of a Mechanical Engineer Mechanical engineers design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems. They work in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing. Understanding the responsibilities and skills required for this profession is crucial before pursuing it.
2. Educational Requirements To become a mechanical engineer, you typically need to follow these educational steps:
High School Diploma or Equivalent: Focus on subjects like mathematics (especially calculus), physics, and chemistry during high school. These subjects form the foundation for engineering principles.
Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering:
Enroll in an accredited engineering program. Accreditation from organizations like the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is essential as it ensures that the program meets industry standards.
A typical bachelor’s degree program includes coursework in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, structural analysis, and computer-aided design (CAD).
Most programs also require hands-on laboratory work and projects that provide practical experience.
Internships or Co-op Programs: Participating in internships or cooperative education programs while studying can provide valuable real-world experience and help build professional networks.
3. Obtain Professional Experience After earning your degree:
Entry-Level Positions: Start working in entry-level positions related to mechanical engineering. This could be as a junior engineer or technician where you can apply your knowledge practically.
Mentorship: Seek mentorship from experienced engineers who can guide you through your early career stages.
4. Consider Licensure In many regions, becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) can enhance job prospects:
Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: After graduation, take the FE exam to become an Engineer-in-Training (EIT). This is often the first step toward licensure.
Work Experience: Gain four years of relevant work experience under a licensed PE.
Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam: After meeting the experience requirement, you can take the PE exam specific to mechanical engineering.
5. Continuing Education Mechanical engineering is an evolving field; thus:
Stay updated with new technologies and methodologies by participating in workshops, seminars, or additional courses.
Consider pursuing a master’s degree or specialized certifications if you wish to advance further in your career or specialize in areas such as robotics or aerospace engineering.
6. Job Search Once you have completed your education and gained some experience:
Prepare a strong resume highlighting your education, internships, projects, and any relevant skills.
Utilize job search platforms specifically tailored for engineers or general job boards to find openings in mechanical engineering.
In summary, becoming a mechanical engineer requires dedication to education through obtaining at least a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from an accredited institution followed by gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level jobs. Additionally, pursuing licensure may enhance career opportunities.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
This organization provides accreditation for college programs in applied science, computing, engineering, and technology. Their guidelines ensure that educational programs meet quality standards necessary for preparing students for their careers.
2. National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
The NSPE offers resources regarding licensure requirements for engineers across different states in the U.S., along with information on continuing education opportunities for professional development.
3. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides comprehensive data on employment statistics for various professions including mechanical engineers—detailing job outlooks, salary ranges, educational requirements, and industry trends.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
285
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Polo:
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Mechanical Engineering!