3 answers
Shamari
Student
Irmo, South Carolina
1
Question
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Can a degree in Mechanical Engineering qualify me for a job in Hardware Engineering, or is a different background typically preferred?
I am really into Computers and its components. I will starting College in August and will be taking Mechanical Engineering as my major, and I was wondering if a Mechanical Engineering could help me get a job in the Hardware Engineering field after I graduate. Are both fields similar enough to allow me to work in a Hardware Engineering field or just strictly Mechanical Engineering?
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3 answers
Brian Swain
Mechanical Engineer
25
Answers
Modesto, California
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Hello Shamari,
I recommend looking at job postings for hardware engineering ( or related) rolls. Most job posting will have a list of desired skill sets+education. While Mechanical Engineering is a very broad field, I suspect Electrical Engineering would be applicable.
I recommend looking at job postings for hardware engineering ( or related) rolls. Most job posting will have a list of desired skill sets+education. While Mechanical Engineering is a very broad field, I suspect Electrical Engineering would be applicable.
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
649
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Shamari,
Mechanical Engineering is a really wide field with lots of specializations. But if you know you want to work on computers, why don't you major in computer science or electrical engineering? Most intro courses in engineering are the same for all engineers anyway, so if you start in mechanical, you can fairly easily change your major.
If that is not possibly, make the people in electrical and computer engineering your best friends. Take as many courses in those fields as possible. See if you can join any projects on "their side". Get as much exposure and hands-on experience as possible.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Mechanical Engineering is a really wide field with lots of specializations. But if you know you want to work on computers, why don't you major in computer science or electrical engineering? Most intro courses in engineering are the same for all engineers anyway, so if you start in mechanical, you can fairly easily change your major.
If that is not possibly, make the people in electrical and computer engineering your best friends. Take as many courses in those fields as possible. See if you can join any projects on "their side". Get as much exposure and hands-on experience as possible.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Hello hope you're doing well. The reason why I am still doing mechanical engineering is because the college I am going does not offer hardware engineering and I didn't get accepted into one that had the option.
Shamari
Chiquria Willis
Loan Processor - Rocket Mortgage
94
Answers
Dearborn Heights, Michigan
Updated
Chiquria’s Answer
That's a great and thoughtful start to your college journey! Yes, a degree in Mechanical Engineering (ME) can definitely open doors to a career in Hardware Engineering. With the right focus and some hands-on experience, you'll find that the two fields overlap in exciting ways—especially in design, manufacturing, thermal management, and system integration.
While Hardware Engineering often falls under Electrical Engineering (EE) or Computer Engineering (CE), Mechanical Engineers are vital for creating physical enclosures, cooling systems, and electromechanical components. These are key to making hardware products like laptops and mobile devices work smoothly.
If you love computers and are majoring in Mechanical Engineering, here’s how you can gear up for a career in hardware engineering:
1. **Explore Interdisciplinary Electives:** Your ME program will give you solid basics in dynamics and materials. Try to add electives like electrical circuits or computer hardware to your studies.
2. **Get Involved in Hands-On Projects or Clubs:** Join robotics teams or computer hardware clubs. This gives you practical experience and shows employers your enthusiasm for hardware development.
3. **Seek Internships with Hardware Companies:** Look for internships at companies like Intel, AMD, or Apple. These opportunities can help you connect ME with hardware engineering roles.
4. **Consider Minoring or Earning Certifications:** If you're passionate about hardware design, a minor in Electrical or Computer Engineering can boost your resume. Certifications in PCB design or CAD software are also a plus.
5. **Highlight Your Interests:** When applying for jobs, emphasize your ME skills and your love for computing hardware through projects or independent builds, like custom PCs or working with Arduino boards.
In short, as a Mechanical Engineering major, you have a clear path to Hardware Engineering with the right extra experiences. Many companies value MEs for roles in chassis design, cooling solutions, and precision manufacturing. While you might not design silicon circuits, you'll play a crucial role in developing the overall hardware products. Keep pushing forward, and you'll find your niche in the hardware engineering world!
While Hardware Engineering often falls under Electrical Engineering (EE) or Computer Engineering (CE), Mechanical Engineers are vital for creating physical enclosures, cooling systems, and electromechanical components. These are key to making hardware products like laptops and mobile devices work smoothly.
If you love computers and are majoring in Mechanical Engineering, here’s how you can gear up for a career in hardware engineering:
1. **Explore Interdisciplinary Electives:** Your ME program will give you solid basics in dynamics and materials. Try to add electives like electrical circuits or computer hardware to your studies.
2. **Get Involved in Hands-On Projects or Clubs:** Join robotics teams or computer hardware clubs. This gives you practical experience and shows employers your enthusiasm for hardware development.
3. **Seek Internships with Hardware Companies:** Look for internships at companies like Intel, AMD, or Apple. These opportunities can help you connect ME with hardware engineering roles.
4. **Consider Minoring or Earning Certifications:** If you're passionate about hardware design, a minor in Electrical or Computer Engineering can boost your resume. Certifications in PCB design or CAD software are also a plus.
5. **Highlight Your Interests:** When applying for jobs, emphasize your ME skills and your love for computing hardware through projects or independent builds, like custom PCs or working with Arduino boards.
In short, as a Mechanical Engineering major, you have a clear path to Hardware Engineering with the right extra experiences. Many companies value MEs for roles in chassis design, cooling solutions, and precision manufacturing. While you might not design silicon circuits, you'll play a crucial role in developing the overall hardware products. Keep pushing forward, and you'll find your niche in the hardware engineering world!
Hello,
Thank you for the great information I will be taking everything you said into account.
Shamari