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What is the average time it takes for an employee to become a manager in an engineering facility??
I am a high school student in Middle Tennessee and plan to pursue a degree in electrical engineering at Tennessee Tech University. From there, I don't know what to do, but I have plenty of time to figure it out.
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5 answers
Updated
Marty’s Answer
If you have above average or an unusual set of skills, timelines don't necessarily apply.
For example, I went from technician for 4 years at television stations to manager for a network broadcasting company. Chance favors the prepared mind - be prepared and continue to gain skills. Network and make relationships - you never know where the road will take you.
Good luck!
For example, I went from technician for 4 years at television stations to manager for a network broadcasting company. Chance favors the prepared mind - be prepared and continue to gain skills. Network and make relationships - you never know where the road will take you.
Good luck!
Updated
Cleopatra’s Answer
Jonathan,
Well done on all you've achieved so far! You have lots of time ahead to explore and discover what truly excites you. Keep your mind open to all the possibilities in the coming four years. With new innovations and opportunities, you might even find yourself drawn to a different engineering field. Aim to be a leader rather than just a manager. A strong leader stands out and lifts the whole team, making a big impact in any organization. Learn about people and what inspires them, so you'll be ready to handle any workplace challenges with confidence. Best of luck in all you do, and remember: focus on today, and let tomorrow take care of itself.
Well done on all you've achieved so far! You have lots of time ahead to explore and discover what truly excites you. Keep your mind open to all the possibilities in the coming four years. With new innovations and opportunities, you might even find yourself drawn to a different engineering field. Aim to be a leader rather than just a manager. A strong leader stands out and lifts the whole team, making a big impact in any organization. Learn about people and what inspires them, so you'll be ready to handle any workplace challenges with confidence. Best of luck in all you do, and remember: focus on today, and let tomorrow take care of itself.
Updated
Armando’s Answer
It varies based on some factors but the average time it takes for an employee to become a manager in an engineering facility in real life typically ranges from 7 to 10 years of experience, including time spent in both engineering roles and demonstrating leadership potential. This timeline can be influenced by factors like education, performance, and the specific company or industry.
Hope this helps somehow. Good luck!
Hope this helps somehow. Good luck!
Updated
Sunita’s Answer
Entry-level to Manager:
On average, it takes 5 to 10 years for an engineer to move into a managerial role.
Early career (0–3 years): Focused on building technical skills and experience.
Mid-career (3–7 years): Increasing responsibility, possibly leading small teams or projects.
Late mid-career (7–10 years): Likely time to move into formal management, such as Engineering Manager or Team LLack of managerial interest or training
Limited internal promotion opportunities
Highly technical or specialized roles without leadership tracks
Lack of managerial interest or training
Limited internal promotion opportunities
Highly technical or specialized roles without leadership tracks
On average, it takes 5 to 10 years for an engineer to move into a managerial role.
Early career (0–3 years): Focused on building technical skills and experience.
Mid-career (3–7 years): Increasing responsibility, possibly leading small teams or projects.
Late mid-career (7–10 years): Likely time to move into formal management, such as Engineering Manager or Team LLack of managerial interest or training
Limited internal promotion opportunities
Highly technical or specialized roles without leadership tracks
Lack of managerial interest or training
Limited internal promotion opportunities
Highly technical or specialized roles without leadership tracks
Updated
Yusoff’s Answer
Great question, Jonathan! It's clear you have a strong goal to become a manager in the engineering field. Your thoughtful approach to understanding the timeline for this achievement is impressive. Keep up the good work!
Before I share my journey, remember that the time it takes to move into an engineering management role depends on your readiness and mindset. Being prepared when the right opportunity comes is key, so the timeline can be different for everyone.
Here's how my journey unfolded: I started as a Process & Mechanical Engineer at a test & measurement manufacturing company. I spent about 4 years working on manufacturing processes and mechanical design, gaining valuable experience in the industry. During this time, I also developed important skills like communication, teamwork, presentation, and negotiation. When a managerial role opened up, I applied and got the job. So, it took me about 4 years to make the transition, and I've been in management for 25 years now.
I hope my experience gives you a sense of what's possible. Best of luck on your path!
Before I share my journey, remember that the time it takes to move into an engineering management role depends on your readiness and mindset. Being prepared when the right opportunity comes is key, so the timeline can be different for everyone.
Here's how my journey unfolded: I started as a Process & Mechanical Engineer at a test & measurement manufacturing company. I spent about 4 years working on manufacturing processes and mechanical design, gaining valuable experience in the industry. During this time, I also developed important skills like communication, teamwork, presentation, and negotiation. When a managerial role opened up, I applied and got the job. So, it took me about 4 years to make the transition, and I've been in management for 25 years now.
I hope my experience gives you a sense of what's possible. Best of luck on your path!