2 answers
Isaiah
Student
Lake Mary, Florida
1
Question
Asked
194 views
How to build experience and hands-on knowledge?
I am a community college, finishing my A.A., focused on the goal of studying mechanical engineering. In the midst of working full time, and full time school, what are some good resources to find internships and clubs related toward my study of mechanical engineering if my community college doesn't offer any?
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2 answers
William Vvuko
Retired engineer
89
Answers
Moyo, Northern Region
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Isaiah,
Studying in a community college is a fantastic foundation to build on.
1) Internships are a great opportunity for hands-on experience: application of concepts, principles, critical thinking & analytical skills. They also help in building other valuable skills such as communication, planning, problem solving & leadership skills. Working alongside professionals is a great opportunity for mentorship and guidance too.
As an intern, you get involved in:
I) Production planning
II) Performing tests on prototypes
III) Preparing CAD & 3D drawings
IV) Preparing reports, documents and findings for presentations.
2) Mechanical engineering internships can be found in a wide range of sectors: aeronautics, automotive, robotics, transport, pharmaceuticals etc.
It's important that you figure out your direction early enough in your career. You can then build up a list of your preferred industries & employers. Consider which companies are hiring interns, which has the best internship programs, their locations etc.
3) Popular employers in USA that offer mechanical engineering internships include:
a) Lockheed Martin
b) Raytheon
c) Sony
d) Space X
e) Hyundai
f) Aurecon
g) US Department of the Air Force
Early networking is important: peers, advisors, mentors & lecturers at your college.
Start applying early enough and be mindful of timelines.
4) Membership in professional associations is essential as it exposes you to professional standards, regulations and best practices
Examples of these associations include American Society of Mechanical Engineers & Institution of Mechanical Engineers
Membership is available to students who wish to join them.
Studying in a community college is a fantastic foundation to build on.
1) Internships are a great opportunity for hands-on experience: application of concepts, principles, critical thinking & analytical skills. They also help in building other valuable skills such as communication, planning, problem solving & leadership skills. Working alongside professionals is a great opportunity for mentorship and guidance too.
As an intern, you get involved in:
I) Production planning
II) Performing tests on prototypes
III) Preparing CAD & 3D drawings
IV) Preparing reports, documents and findings for presentations.
2) Mechanical engineering internships can be found in a wide range of sectors: aeronautics, automotive, robotics, transport, pharmaceuticals etc.
It's important that you figure out your direction early enough in your career. You can then build up a list of your preferred industries & employers. Consider which companies are hiring interns, which has the best internship programs, their locations etc.
3) Popular employers in USA that offer mechanical engineering internships include:
a) Lockheed Martin
b) Raytheon
c) Sony
d) Space X
e) Hyundai
f) Aurecon
g) US Department of the Air Force
Early networking is important: peers, advisors, mentors & lecturers at your college.
Start applying early enough and be mindful of timelines.
4) Membership in professional associations is essential as it exposes you to professional standards, regulations and best practices
Examples of these associations include American Society of Mechanical Engineers & Institution of Mechanical Engineers
Membership is available to students who wish to join them.
Ankita Pimple
Currently Student pursuing MS in Management Information System
43
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Ankita’s Answer
You're doing great! Even if your college lacks engineering clubs, you can still gain experience by:
Joining online platforms like LinkedIn, Handshake, and Chegg Internships for entry-level opportunities.
Becoming a student member of ASME to access events, mentorship, and competitions.
Exploring makerspaces, hackathons, or DIY projects (Instructables, Arduino) to build hands-on skills.
Participating in competitions like NASA Micro-g NExT or ASME’s student challenges.
Starting your own mini project club or portfolio to showcase what you’re learning.
Take small steps—each one builds your experience!
Joining online platforms like LinkedIn, Handshake, and Chegg Internships for entry-level opportunities.
Becoming a student member of ASME to access events, mentorship, and competitions.
Exploring makerspaces, hackathons, or DIY projects (Instructables, Arduino) to build hands-on skills.
Participating in competitions like NASA Micro-g NExT or ASME’s student challenges.
Starting your own mini project club or portfolio to showcase what you’re learning.
Take small steps—each one builds your experience!