3 answers
Michael
Student
Florida City, Florida
1
Question
3 answers
Christine N
Hardware Developer
1
Answer
Austin, Texas
Updated
Christine’s Answer
Hi Michael,
It's great to hear that you want to become an engineer! To add onto the answers already provided, there's a chance you may not know yet what type of engineer you want to be or what specialization you want to focus on before you start college. That's perfectly okay! For many colleges who offer a 4-year engineering degree, freshman engineering majors usually share the same coursework (such as Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, etc). During this time, try to figure out what courses/topics you like. For example, consider Chemical Engineering if you like Chemistry, or consider Electrical Engineering if you like the Electromagnetism section of Physics.
Once you decided on an Engineering major based on your interests, there are many specializations within that major. If you're not sure which specialization to focus on, branch out with your electives. You may find a career path that you originally wouldn't have even considered! For example, personally I wanted to go into either Electrical or Computer Engineering but had no idea what specialization to pursue. I originally chose Control Systems, but took one elective in that topic and knew that Control Systems wasn't for me. That same year, I took a Computer Architecture elective and loved it! If I didn't take that Computer Architecture elective, I would have never even considered it as a career path.
Overall, it's great that you already know that you want to be an engineer! Use your experiences and interests to figure out what type of engineer and specialization you want to pursue, but it's perfectly okay to not know yet. Your classes/electives can help you figure that out. Good luck with your career goals and beyond!
It's great to hear that you want to become an engineer! To add onto the answers already provided, there's a chance you may not know yet what type of engineer you want to be or what specialization you want to focus on before you start college. That's perfectly okay! For many colleges who offer a 4-year engineering degree, freshman engineering majors usually share the same coursework (such as Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, etc). During this time, try to figure out what courses/topics you like. For example, consider Chemical Engineering if you like Chemistry, or consider Electrical Engineering if you like the Electromagnetism section of Physics.
Once you decided on an Engineering major based on your interests, there are many specializations within that major. If you're not sure which specialization to focus on, branch out with your electives. You may find a career path that you originally wouldn't have even considered! For example, personally I wanted to go into either Electrical or Computer Engineering but had no idea what specialization to pursue. I originally chose Control Systems, but took one elective in that topic and knew that Control Systems wasn't for me. That same year, I took a Computer Architecture elective and loved it! If I didn't take that Computer Architecture elective, I would have never even considered it as a career path.
Overall, it's great that you already know that you want to be an engineer! Use your experiences and interests to figure out what type of engineer and specialization you want to pursue, but it's perfectly okay to not know yet. Your classes/electives can help you figure that out. Good luck with your career goals and beyond!
Sheila Schultz
Engineering Leader
30
Answers
Brighton, Michigan
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hi Michael,
Thanks for the great question!. It is great to hear of your interest in engineering.
I have spent many years working in the automotive industry as an engineer and engineering leader. A great foundation for this career is math and science classes. Engineers also would need a college degree. There are many types of engineering including Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Civil and more. You can explore different disciplines of engineering and pick a focus that matches your interest. I personally have a mechanical engineering degree. It is an exciting field to go into. Best wishes as you explore your future career options.
Thanks for the great question!. It is great to hear of your interest in engineering.
I have spent many years working in the automotive industry as an engineer and engineering leader. A great foundation for this career is math and science classes. Engineers also would need a college degree. There are many types of engineering including Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Civil and more. You can explore different disciplines of engineering and pick a focus that matches your interest. I personally have a mechanical engineering degree. It is an exciting field to go into. Best wishes as you explore your future career options.
Kim Arskii
Social Media Analyst
62
Answers
St. Augustine, Florida
Updated
Kim’s Answer
If you want to become an engineer, there are a few steps you can take:
1. Choose a specific field: Engineering is a broad field, so it's helpful to narrow down your focus. Decide which area interests you the most, such as mechanical engineering, civil engineering, or computer engineering.
2. Get a bachelor's degree: Pursue a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Look for accredited programs that align with your chosen engineering discipline.
3. Gain practical experience: Internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions can provide valuable hands-on experience in the field. This can help you apply your knowledge and build a strong foundation.
4. Obtain professional licensure (if required): Depending on your engineering discipline and country, you may need to obtain a professional license to practice as an engineer. Research the requirements specific to your chosen field and location.
5. Continuous learning: Engineering is a field that constantly evolves. Stay updated with the latest advancements, technologies, and industry trends through professional development courses, workshops, and conferences.
Becoming an engineer requires dedication, problem-solving skills, and a passion for innovation. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals in the field or academic advisors for guidance along the way.
Also, if you're interested in becoming a shipping engineer, attending a trade school can be a great option. Trade schools often offer specialized programs that provide hands-on training and practical skills specific to the shipping industry. Look for trade schools or vocational programs that offer courses or certifications in maritime engineering or shipping technology. These programs can equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to work in the shipping industry as an engineer. Remember to research different trade schools, compare their programs, and choose one that aligns with your career goals.
1. Choose a specific field: Engineering is a broad field, so it's helpful to narrow down your focus. Decide which area interests you the most, such as mechanical engineering, civil engineering, or computer engineering.
2. Get a bachelor's degree: Pursue a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Look for accredited programs that align with your chosen engineering discipline.
3. Gain practical experience: Internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions can provide valuable hands-on experience in the field. This can help you apply your knowledge and build a strong foundation.
4. Obtain professional licensure (if required): Depending on your engineering discipline and country, you may need to obtain a professional license to practice as an engineer. Research the requirements specific to your chosen field and location.
5. Continuous learning: Engineering is a field that constantly evolves. Stay updated with the latest advancements, technologies, and industry trends through professional development courses, workshops, and conferences.
Becoming an engineer requires dedication, problem-solving skills, and a passion for innovation. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals in the field or academic advisors for guidance along the way.
Also, if you're interested in becoming a shipping engineer, attending a trade school can be a great option. Trade schools often offer specialized programs that provide hands-on training and practical skills specific to the shipping industry. Look for trade schools or vocational programs that offer courses or certifications in maritime engineering or shipping technology. These programs can equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to work in the shipping industry as an engineer. Remember to research different trade schools, compare their programs, and choose one that aligns with your career goals.