What are some jobs that use math a good amount within the engineering field?
Hello,
I like math lots, but programming not so much. I was wondering if there were any jobs within the engineering industry that use math a decent amount.
Any ideas are useful… Just not really sure what I want to do with my life. Also some soft/hard skills that would be needed for the job would be a start to see what I need and can work on.
4 answers
Fahad Elahi’s Answer
Hard skills you might need include proficiency in math software like MATLAB for calculations, technical drawing with AutoCAD, and understanding physics principles. Soft skills like problem solving, attention to detail, and teamwork are crucial since you'll collaborate on projects. Start by taking math heavy courses or certifications to build these up and see what fits your interests.
Mike’s Answer
I am so glad to hear that you like math. This is a skill that will help you a lot no matter what path you choose.
All fields of engineering require a lot of math. Also, there are people who work for corporations as mathematicians. Teaching is another way to focus your career on math.
But for any career that you choose, there are always a lot of other skills that are important in addition to math skills.
When considering career choices, also take into account other important aspects of your career path.
* What topics or tasks naturally grab your attention? Besides math, what else do you enjoy learning about?
* In addition to math, what are you good at already? What do others say you are good at?
* Do you prefer routine or variety? Teamwork or independent work?
The O*Net career profiler might be something that can help you: https://www.onetcenter.org/IP.html
It is good news that you like math work. This is a skill that gives you a good start for many careers.
Below, I also have a link to the CareerOneStop website. A lot of people find this tool helpful.
I hope that you will find a career that you will always love.
Good Luck in all that you do.
- Mike
Mike recommends the following next steps:
William’s Answer
Students who aspire to become engineers are usually required to study a set of important subjects in high school. The most important, amongst them, are mathematics and physics. Engineering mathematics is a critical subject that is taught in colleges and universities that offer engineering courses. So you are in a good place.
Real life is about choices. Generally, our choices are influenced by our aspirations.
Our aspirations are informed by our natural gifts, interests, love for what we do, fascinations with what surrounds us and role models.
Ultimately, our endeavors in life need to focus on making our world a better place to live in. Engineering has been a huge contributor to this noble cause throughout the ages.
Many disciplines exist within the field of engineering. Common ones include electrical, structural, civil, production, mechanical, software, biomedical engineering, robotics etc. that you can choose from.
What you are able to do with a given qualification, in itself, is a powerful motivating factor.
Some of the soft skills you require, especially at the workplace, include ability to plan, organize, analyze, work in teams, identify and solve problems.
Personal qualities that you need include such traits as passion, commitment, perseverance, curiosity, positive attitude, empathy, self control, assertiveness and courage to take risks. I hope you find this useful.
Karin’s Answer
It's great that you like math (I do too)! All engineering degrees require a fair amount of math during your studies, and many involve quite a bit of math in practice. I don't see you super excited about being an engineer though. Have you considered more mathy roles such as accountant, statistician, data scientist, actuary, finance, economist?
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP