8 answers
Patrick
Student
Park City, Utah
1
Question
Asked
492 views
How do you get started with your career?
What’s a good career to have? How do you get started with it. I still don’t have a career picked out so any advice helps. When did you decide your career choice?
8 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4073
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Patrick,
Furthering Your Mechanical Engineering Career
To further your mechanical engineering career, there are several steps you can take to enhance your knowledge, skills, and professional development. Here are some key strategies to consider:
1. Pursue Advanced Education: Consider pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Advanced education can provide you with specialized knowledge and skills, as well as opportunities for research and academic advancement. Additionally, obtaining an advanced degree can open doors to higher-level positions in the field.
2. Obtain Professional Certifications: Seek out professional certifications that are relevant to mechanical engineering, such as the Professional Engineer (PE) license. These certifications can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, making you more competitive in the job market and opening up opportunities for career advancement.
3. Gain Practical Experience: Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience in mechanical engineering through internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions. Practical experience is invaluable for developing real-world problem-solving skills and understanding the practical application of engineering principles.
4. Specialize in a Subfield: Consider specializing in a specific subfield of mechanical engineering, such as robotics, aerospace, automotive engineering, or renewable energy. Specialization can make you an expert in a particular area of interest and can set you apart in the job market.
5. Stay Updated on Industry Trends: Stay abreast of the latest developments and trends in the field of mechanical engineering by reading industry publications, attending conferences, and participating in professional organizations. Keeping up with industry advancements can help you remain competitive and knowledgeable in your career.
6. Develop Soft Skills: In addition to technical expertise, focus on developing soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and project management. These skills are highly valued in the workplace and can contribute to your overall effectiveness as a mechanical engineer.
7. Network and Build Professional Relationships: Networking with professionals in the field of mechanical engineering can provide valuable insights, mentorship opportunities, and potential career connections. Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities and career growth.
8. Engage in Continuing Education: Participate in continuing education programs, workshops, and seminars to expand your knowledge base and stay current with industry best practices and emerging technologies.
By taking these proactive steps to further your mechanical engineering career, you can position yourself for continued growth and success within the field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) - ASME is a renowned professional organization that provides valuable resources for mechanical engineers, including publications, standards, certifications, and networking opportunities.
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) - The NSPE offers professional development resources and information on obtaining the Professional Engineer (PE) license, which is a significant credential for mechanical engineers.
Mechanical Engineering Magazine - This publication covers a wide range of topics related to mechanical engineering, including industry trends, technological advancements, and career development advice.
GOD BLESS,
J
Furthering Your Mechanical Engineering Career
To further your mechanical engineering career, there are several steps you can take to enhance your knowledge, skills, and professional development. Here are some key strategies to consider:
1. Pursue Advanced Education: Consider pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Advanced education can provide you with specialized knowledge and skills, as well as opportunities for research and academic advancement. Additionally, obtaining an advanced degree can open doors to higher-level positions in the field.
2. Obtain Professional Certifications: Seek out professional certifications that are relevant to mechanical engineering, such as the Professional Engineer (PE) license. These certifications can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, making you more competitive in the job market and opening up opportunities for career advancement.
3. Gain Practical Experience: Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience in mechanical engineering through internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions. Practical experience is invaluable for developing real-world problem-solving skills and understanding the practical application of engineering principles.
4. Specialize in a Subfield: Consider specializing in a specific subfield of mechanical engineering, such as robotics, aerospace, automotive engineering, or renewable energy. Specialization can make you an expert in a particular area of interest and can set you apart in the job market.
5. Stay Updated on Industry Trends: Stay abreast of the latest developments and trends in the field of mechanical engineering by reading industry publications, attending conferences, and participating in professional organizations. Keeping up with industry advancements can help you remain competitive and knowledgeable in your career.
6. Develop Soft Skills: In addition to technical expertise, focus on developing soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and project management. These skills are highly valued in the workplace and can contribute to your overall effectiveness as a mechanical engineer.
7. Network and Build Professional Relationships: Networking with professionals in the field of mechanical engineering can provide valuable insights, mentorship opportunities, and potential career connections. Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities and career growth.
8. Engage in Continuing Education: Participate in continuing education programs, workshops, and seminars to expand your knowledge base and stay current with industry best practices and emerging technologies.
By taking these proactive steps to further your mechanical engineering career, you can position yourself for continued growth and success within the field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) - ASME is a renowned professional organization that provides valuable resources for mechanical engineers, including publications, standards, certifications, and networking opportunities.
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) - The NSPE offers professional development resources and information on obtaining the Professional Engineer (PE) license, which is a significant credential for mechanical engineers.
Mechanical Engineering Magazine - This publication covers a wide range of topics related to mechanical engineering, including industry trends, technological advancements, and career development advice.
GOD BLESS,
J
Bailey Crorey
Nursing
2
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Bailey’s Answer
You definitely want to find a career that you are passionate about and that you can truly feel comfortable working at. When considering careers, think about jobs you know your friends and family have that you may find interesting and research more into them. Make a list of careers that interest you, what the schedule would look like (normal Monday through Friday or shift work like 3 days on for 12 hours 4 days off ), what type of tasks you would be doing at this job, how long will it take to obtain a degree for that particular career, also how much the average salary is. Remember no one says you have to know exactly what you want to do and have it all figured out. At the end of the day you should choose what you think would be best for you.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
522
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I didn’t really understand what I wanted to do until I was half way through college. I was able to take classes in Theater, Archeology, Astronomy and others. I ultimately landed with Psychology as I loved exploring how the mind worked.
Even after selecting Psychology, I ultimately earned dual degrees as I also found interest in philosophy. A lot can change in life in a few years. It’s ok to not have it all sorted today.
Even after selecting Psychology, I ultimately earned dual degrees as I also found interest in philosophy. A lot can change in life in a few years. It’s ok to not have it all sorted today.
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
298
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
Hi Patrick,
To get started with your career, you first need to understand what are your academic interests and life goals. So try to decide what you want to achieve in life since your career goals and aspirations should be related to it.
When I chose my career path, I did the same: I tried to follow my academic interests and also field-related skills. It's important that your occupation be in the scope of your strengths, talents and abilities.
Define your greatest dreams and goals.
Find an academic field which best matches your life plans.
Decide whether that discipline is related to your strengths, talents and abilities.
Find good colleges to apply.
Check their application requirements and get ready for them.
To get started with your career, you first need to understand what are your academic interests and life goals. So try to decide what you want to achieve in life since your career goals and aspirations should be related to it.
When I chose my career path, I did the same: I tried to follow my academic interests and also field-related skills. It's important that your occupation be in the scope of your strengths, talents and abilities.
Amalya recommends the following next steps:
Michelle Selko, MS, OTR/L
occupational therapist
22
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hey Patrick,
Choosing a career path is a unique journey for everyone. Some students start their college life as liberal arts majors, using this broad field to explore their interests before settling on a specific path. Others begin at community colleges, completing general courses before deciding on a specific major at a university. It's also not uncommon for people to switch careers or majors.
Think about your passions and interests. If you enjoy helping others, consider careers in teaching, social work, or healthcare. If you're an animal lover, consider becoming a vet assistant or studying the sciences. If you're into sports and fitness, physical therapy, athletic training, or becoming a PE teacher might be great choices for you. If you are interested in computers or film, there are plenty of options in those fields too.
I know it can feel overwhelming with so many choices. If your school has a guidance counselor, it's a good idea to meet with them. They can be very helpful. I also recommend observing different professions to get a feel for what you might enjoy and what you might not.
Choosing a career path is a unique journey for everyone. Some students start their college life as liberal arts majors, using this broad field to explore their interests before settling on a specific path. Others begin at community colleges, completing general courses before deciding on a specific major at a university. It's also not uncommon for people to switch careers or majors.
Think about your passions and interests. If you enjoy helping others, consider careers in teaching, social work, or healthcare. If you're an animal lover, consider becoming a vet assistant or studying the sciences. If you're into sports and fitness, physical therapy, athletic training, or becoming a PE teacher might be great choices for you. If you are interested in computers or film, there are plenty of options in those fields too.
I know it can feel overwhelming with so many choices. If your school has a guidance counselor, it's a good idea to meet with them. They can be very helpful. I also recommend observing different professions to get a feel for what you might enjoy and what you might not.
Judith-Ann Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) at AndeersonCounselingTexas( ACT)
106
Answers
Grapevine, Texas
Updated
Judith-Ann’s Answer
Hello, Patrick. A good route to take is pursue something that you matches your interests and aptitude. For instance, if you like being a musician, then pursue ways to perfect your craft and ways to earn a good living. With that answer, you can determine the best route to take as far as education and training. If you don't know which area to pursue, I suggest going to a junior college to take a variety of courses and get a good basic higher education.
Another idea is to find mentors that you admire and interview them about their career of choice and how they got there. Just remember what ever you choose, be true to yourself and keep your values and morality in tact.
Another idea is to find mentors that you admire and interview them about their career of choice and how they got there. Just remember what ever you choose, be true to yourself and keep your values and morality in tact.
Marlyce Campbell
Respiratory Therapist
42
Answers
WaKeeney, Kansas
Updated
Marlyce’s Answer
I always wanted to be a paramedic but life changed that I took the EMT course that was offered to me while I was in High School. The medical director saw potential in me and at that time you could be an on-the-job training as a Respiratory Therapist. It has been the best job ever. I get to do every level of care preemie to the geriatric patients. As an RT you have many opportunities to work in hospital, clinic, home health and even home care companies (DME). You can specialize in area like ICU ER or outpatient clinic.
Job shadow a Respiratory Therapist vo tech offer cheaper tuition than a college. if you enjoy helping people and the medical field. Look into being a Respiratory Therapist
Job shadow a Respiratory Therapist vo tech offer cheaper tuition than a college. if you enjoy helping people and the medical field. Look into being a Respiratory Therapist
Jeni Brown
Human Resources
9
Answers
Fort McMurray
Updated
Jeni’s Answer
Hi Patrick,
It's truly commendable that you're taking the initiative to figure things out at this stage.
However, it's no easy task to pinpoint the perfect career path! It's a decision that hinges on your unique talents and aspirations. If there are certain subjects in school that captivate your interest, you could delve deeper to discover what professions require those skills and then focus towards those areas in your higher studies.
I agree with the suggestions that have been made about initially embarking on a broader course of study until you gain clarity on your career path.
I found myself in a similar situation during my high school years. I enjoyed math, which led me to pursue a business degree and subsequently a career in banking. But as life would have it, I got a chance to switch to HR and it was a game-changer for me. I found my true calling in HR and have built a successful career in it. So, remember, even after you've set foot in your career, there could be opportunities that come your way and resonate with you.
A chat with a career counsellor at your school could prove to be quite beneficial. They could provide you with valuable insights and guide you towards educational opportunities that align with your career goals.
Wishing you all the very best!
It's truly commendable that you're taking the initiative to figure things out at this stage.
However, it's no easy task to pinpoint the perfect career path! It's a decision that hinges on your unique talents and aspirations. If there are certain subjects in school that captivate your interest, you could delve deeper to discover what professions require those skills and then focus towards those areas in your higher studies.
I agree with the suggestions that have been made about initially embarking on a broader course of study until you gain clarity on your career path.
I found myself in a similar situation during my high school years. I enjoyed math, which led me to pursue a business degree and subsequently a career in banking. But as life would have it, I got a chance to switch to HR and it was a game-changer for me. I found my true calling in HR and have built a successful career in it. So, remember, even after you've set foot in your career, there could be opportunities that come your way and resonate with you.
A chat with a career counsellor at your school could prove to be quite beneficial. They could provide you with valuable insights and guide you towards educational opportunities that align with your career goals.
Wishing you all the very best!
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