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How can I explore different careers for backups in case engineering field doesn't work out for me?
I want to ensure I get a jobs or be in a field that I'm comfortable in and maybe engineering might not work out for me if I feel like it's not what I want to do for the rest of my life.
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Dr’s Answer
Hey Ivan, it’s awesome that you’re thinking ahead and exploring backup options—it's really smart to consider your interests beyond just one field.
William shared some great thoughts on aligning your career with your strengths and interests. He’s right that engineering often requires proficiency in subjects like math, physics, and design. However, it’s crucial to remember that while technical skills are important, your passion and curiosity should also play a big role in the direction you choose. Engineering can open many doors, but if it doesn’t feel like the right fit, that's okay!
One thing I’d suggest is exploring interdisciplinary fields that combine engineering principles with other areas that might interest you more. For example, product design, sustainability engineering, or tech entrepreneurship could be fantastic options if you enjoy creative thinking along with problem-solving. They’re still rooted in engineering but allow more flexibility in terms of creative application and can bring a sense of fulfillment through innovation.
Also, shadowing professionals or participating in internships in different fields related to engineering can give you real-world insight into what other options might feel like. Look for fields like urban planning, renewable energy, or even robotics. Often, those fields blend engineering with design and environmental factors, which might keep things interesting while staying within your comfort zone.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to pivot completely if that’s what feels right later on. Many successful people didn’t stick to one rigid path—they followed their interests and redefined their careers as they went along. Up-skilling in something like data science, product management, or digital marketing could also open doors to non-engineering roles where your technical problem-solving skills are still highly valued.
Keep exploring what excites you. There’s no harm in testing waters in multiple areas before settling on the one that feels right for you. This approach allows you to figure out what truly makes you happy in a career! Good luck🤗!
William shared some great thoughts on aligning your career with your strengths and interests. He’s right that engineering often requires proficiency in subjects like math, physics, and design. However, it’s crucial to remember that while technical skills are important, your passion and curiosity should also play a big role in the direction you choose. Engineering can open many doors, but if it doesn’t feel like the right fit, that's okay!
One thing I’d suggest is exploring interdisciplinary fields that combine engineering principles with other areas that might interest you more. For example, product design, sustainability engineering, or tech entrepreneurship could be fantastic options if you enjoy creative thinking along with problem-solving. They’re still rooted in engineering but allow more flexibility in terms of creative application and can bring a sense of fulfillment through innovation.
Also, shadowing professionals or participating in internships in different fields related to engineering can give you real-world insight into what other options might feel like. Look for fields like urban planning, renewable energy, or even robotics. Often, those fields blend engineering with design and environmental factors, which might keep things interesting while staying within your comfort zone.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to pivot completely if that’s what feels right later on. Many successful people didn’t stick to one rigid path—they followed their interests and redefined their careers as they went along. Up-skilling in something like data science, product management, or digital marketing could also open doors to non-engineering roles where your technical problem-solving skills are still highly valued.
Keep exploring what excites you. There’s no harm in testing waters in multiple areas before settling on the one that feels right for you. This approach allows you to figure out what truly makes you happy in a career! Good luck🤗!
Uran James, your support is like a steady compass—always guiding the way toward knowledge! Much appreciated!
Dr H
Leo Nine, your support roars with strength! Wisdom thrives when shared—appreciate it!
Dr H
Syuk Chang Every bit of support fuels the journey of shared wisdom—let’s keep building and growing together!
Dr H
Updated
William’s Answer
Dear Ivan,
It's with great pleasure that I link up with you.
As we grow up from childhood, our career aspirations tent to evolve.
Ideally, as we get grounded in reality with age, our aspirations tend to get clearer. My advice is that you should choose what you are, not only good at, but also what interests you the most.
To become an engineer, you need to be proficient in such subjects as maths, physics, chemistry, technical drawing, graphics & design, computer applications. Common trades include civil, electrical, structural, mechanical, production, software engineering etc. A bias in chemistry & maths is ideal for persuing a career in pharmacy. In some countries, universities offer professional courses in Bachelor of Statistics.
I hope you find this useful.
It's with great pleasure that I link up with you.
As we grow up from childhood, our career aspirations tent to evolve.
Ideally, as we get grounded in reality with age, our aspirations tend to get clearer. My advice is that you should choose what you are, not only good at, but also what interests you the most.
To become an engineer, you need to be proficient in such subjects as maths, physics, chemistry, technical drawing, graphics & design, computer applications. Common trades include civil, electrical, structural, mechanical, production, software engineering etc. A bias in chemistry & maths is ideal for persuing a career in pharmacy. In some countries, universities offer professional courses in Bachelor of Statistics.
I hope you find this useful.
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Hi Ivan. Thanks for your great question.
I our current world, exploring different careers can be less challenging than it used to be. Fortunately, there is no shortage of reading or research material on different careers...and how those careers are trending over time. One of my favorite quick bites of information on careers can be found online...CNBC MakingIt series. These are short and interesting bites, sometimes in written form and sometimes in video format, that profile college, career and work life for young professionals.
If you have access to a local library, you may consider reviewing career magazines or maybe even utilizing their computers to search through open job sites like Indeed or ZipRecruiter.
Most of what I am recommending is in the digital space because that space gives you the flexibility to go as deep or broad as you would like in your research in a fairly short amount of time. And you can always return and see what has changed since you last checked in. Understanding career trends will take more than just a onetime view at one location. It may be a good idea to consider a strategy where you look at several pieces of information over time.
Hope you find this answer helpful and best of luck to you.
I our current world, exploring different careers can be less challenging than it used to be. Fortunately, there is no shortage of reading or research material on different careers...and how those careers are trending over time. One of my favorite quick bites of information on careers can be found online...CNBC MakingIt series. These are short and interesting bites, sometimes in written form and sometimes in video format, that profile college, career and work life for young professionals.
If you have access to a local library, you may consider reviewing career magazines or maybe even utilizing their computers to search through open job sites like Indeed or ZipRecruiter.
Most of what I am recommending is in the digital space because that space gives you the flexibility to go as deep or broad as you would like in your research in a fairly short amount of time. And you can always return and see what has changed since you last checked in. Understanding career trends will take more than just a onetime view at one location. It may be a good idea to consider a strategy where you look at several pieces of information over time.
Hope you find this answer helpful and best of luck to you.