Introduction
Engineering is a discipline that focuses on problem solving. Our built environment and infrastructure, the devices we use to communicate, the processes that manufacture our medicines, have all been designed, assembled or managed by an engineer.
Being an engineer entails more than one job. Engineering is a broad field with numerous employment options. While all engineering occupations share a set of core general skills, they quickly branch out into numerous specializations that necessitate highly different skill sets.
Before deciding on a career route in engineering, it’s critical to know what type of engineering you want to specialize in.
Types of engineering disciplines
Biomedical Engineering
The application of engineering principles to the field of healthcare is what biomedical engineering is all about. It entails designing, developing, and manufacturing medical equipment and goods. A biomedical engineer could work in fields including health care, medical equipment manufacture, or biomedical research.
How will I know if Biomedical Engineering Is Right for Me?
A biomedical engineer may contribute to the development of items such as robotic surgical equipment or joint replacements.
As a biomedical engineer, you may be responsible for the following tasks:
- Conduct study to find solutions to clinical problems.
- Design gadgets or equipment using computer software or mathematical models.
- Collaboration with other medical professionals, as well as patients and their caregivers.
- Organizing medical product clinical studies.
- Working with technicians and manufacturers to determine the viability of a product.
Civil Engineering
Civil engineering is the study and design of infrastructure such roads, bridges, buildings, and utilities. Specializations within civil engineering include structural engineering and Architectural engineering.
How will I know if Civil Engineering Is Right for Me?
Other skills and competencies required of a competent civil engineer include:
- Good communication skills: Civil engineers will be required to collaborate with other project stakeholders such as construction managers, architects, and even financiers. Communication is essential!
- The capacity to lead and manage projects: Civil engineers work on huge, long-term projects with various stakeholders and potentially large budgets. A civil engineer must efficiently manage people, finances, deadlines, and resources!
Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering is concerned with how biological and chemical processes can be utilized to create new materials and substances. A chemical engineer is in charge of planning, developing, manufacturing, and supervising industrial processes that convert raw materials into useful products. A career in chemical engineering will take you to a variety of businesses and sectors, including food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, plastics, and the energy sector.
How will I know if Chemical Engineering Is Right for Me?
Chemical engineering may be the appropriate option for you if you’re interested in chemistry, biology, or the industrial and chemical processes that go into manufacturing common things and products.
A chemical engineer must have the following key abilities and competencies:
- A strong background in chemistry, biology, or life sciences.
- Commercial and business acumen
- Analytical and problem-solving skills are required.
- Excellent oral and written communication abilities.
- Working with technicians and manufacturers to determine the viability of a product.
Electrical Engineering
Electrical and electronic engineering is the branch of engineering that focuses on electrical and electronic equipment, interfaces, and communications. Electrical engineering is more concerned with large-scale electrical equipment and power, whereas electronic engineering is more concerned with tiny electronic devices and electronic circuits.
How will I know if Electrical Engineering Is Right for Me?
Electrical engineers are typically excellent problem solvers and inventors. If you enjoy studying mathematics or physics, or if you simply appreciate understanding how electrical devices and systems function, electrical/electronic engineering may be the ideal option for you. Furthermore, if you’re interested in scientific advancements or creating future improvements in electrical/electronic power and production, this could be the field for you.
Electrical and electronic engineering necessitates a wide range of abilities and talents, including:
- Problem-solving and analytical abilities
- Pay attention to the details.
- Commercial understanding of the electrical/electronic industry
- Planning and project management abilities
- Oral and written communication abilities to aid in the translation of complex thoughts and technical concepts into simple
- Information (for example, for other stakeholders who may not have an engineering background).
- Coding and programming language knowledge
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is the design, fabrication, and upkeep of mechanical systems. If you’re considering a career in mechanical engineering, it’s another incredibly large and diversified profession with numerous job opportunities.
As a mechanical engineer, you will be responsible for a wide range of mechanical processes and products, from modest component designs to incredibly big plants, machines, or vehicles. There are many differences between civil and mechanical engineering or other professions, but there is also a lot of overlap, and Engineers with a background in Mechanical Engineering are frequently found working in other fields.
How will I know if Mechanical Engineering Is Right for Me?
If you’re fascinated by machines or mechanical systems and how they work, this is the engineering field for you. If you enjoy computing, data analysis, and designing/developing new mechanical processes and products, mechanical engineering may be a good fit for you.
In terms of overall mechanical engineering skills, you will need to demonstrate:
- Creativity
- Technical knowledge
- Problem-solving abilities in the real world.
- Excellent arithmetic and numeracy skills.
- Excellent IT skills (skills in computer aided design are also useful)
- Communication abilities, both oral and written.
- Excellent organizational skills.