You definitely have an idea of what to expect when studying Mechanical Engineering, but what about the employment you can get with such a degree?
If your response is the standard “be solution-oriented, innovative, and have at least a passing knowledge of Math and Technology,” you’ve barely scratched the surface. There is still some hiking to be done in order to reach the summit.
We’re here to fill in the spaces and cover the topics that will actually set you apart on the job market if you study Mechanical Engineering at the Bachelor’s level. When pursuing undergraduate study in Mechanical Engineering, be sure to read about these steps.
What is Mechanical Engineering?
Before we get into the processes that will help you become a good mechanical engineer, let’s define Mechanical Engineering and what to expect during your study.
Mechanical engineering is concerned with the design, manufacture, testing, and development of mechanical systems, which are employed in almost every industry.
Mechanical Engineering students chose this discipline because of its adaptability and the variety of employment choices available after graduation. Construction, the automobile industry, robotics, the energy sector, and many other industries are available.
The courses you’ll study will differ depending on your Bachelor’s program’s curriculum. Engineering Service and Statistics, Engineering Economy, Materials Science, Technical Writing, Design & Automation, Thermodynamics, Mathematics, Engineering Analysis, and other disciplines are common.
Mechanical Engineering Skills
Some of the most critical skills you may learn to become a great mechanical engineer are:
- Problem-solving skills are required to tackle all of the difficult puzzles that lie between you and the ideal mechanical product/device/system.
- Creativity is the only method to come up with novel solutions, perceive what others are missing, and build something from nothing.
- Communication is essential when working with your team, but it is especially critical when explaining to clients and users how to use your product or solution.
- Mechanical engineers frequently work in groups, which allows them to brainstorm ideas, compare solutions, and identify the best solution to a given difficulty or task.
- Math skills: addressing mechanical engineering problems frequently necessitates the application of mathematical principles such as calculus or statistics.
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1. To build a name for yourself, enroll in a good international engineering school
We live in a world where names are valuable. This shouldn’t come as a surprise to you, but it does imply you need to be especially cautious about what you include in your CV and how you can impress your bosses even before they see your amazing mechanical talents in action.
If you truly want to stand out, direct your Bachelor’s or Master’s studies toward famous engineering colleges. MIT, UC Berkeley, and RWTH Aachen are among the world’s most prestigious and top-ranked engineering institutions.
However, many other overseas colleges provide high-quality Mechanical Engineering programs that are worth mentioning on your resume. If you’re seeking for Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, consider the following options:
2. Choose the appropriate country for Mechanical Engineering
Your formative years are crucial, regardless of who you are or what you choose to accomplish. This also applies to you, a future mechanical engineer! The more cultures and people you meet, the more you learn about alternative approaches to problem-solving. Isn’t this what every engineer does?
And here’s a little-known fact: the countries with the most Mechanical Engineering degrees are likewise likely to have the most Mechanical Engineers. Here is an example of a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering offer:
3. Begin getting experience as a mechanical engineer as soon as possible
Yes, universities are important. Yes, picking a country that needs mechanical engineers is important. But do you know what employers value even more? Experience! Experience that requires you to get your hands dirty.
During your undergraduate studies, begin refining your Mechanical Engineering talents by undertaking internships, part-time employment, volunteering, or shadowing professionals. You’ll have the highest chance of graduating not only with a wonderful diploma but also with practical knowledge of how to get the job done.
Consider this an investment, in that you are offering your time now in exchange for money, power, and world dominance afterward. (I’m kidding!)
4. Consider the work of well-known mechanical engineers
What are Nikola Tesla, Rudolf Diesel, Karl Benz, and Henry Ford all about? They aren’t all “vehicle parts,” but they are all Mechanical Engineering graduates! They are among those that have managed to stay on top of their fields while also bringing new and innovative ideas to the table.
The key is that you need to be aware of the major names in your area and follow their approaches in order to prevent beginner mistakes and to be inspired when you’re stuck or everything seems overwhelming.
If you want to understand what it’s like to study abroad, you can look into Madvesh’s study experience at RWTH Aachen University, where he studied Mechanical Engineering. “My primary concern was the international environment, instructional quality, and a healthy learning environment,” he explains. RWTH Aachen has all of these, thus the decision was simple.”
5. Salary and career opportunities in mechanical engineering
Mechanical Engineering positions are not only lucrative but also in high demand. The number of available job openings is both consistent and increasing. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be a 4% rise in Mechanical Engineering jobs in America alone until 2028.
Here are the salaries for some of the most popular Mechanical Engineering careers in the US, based on Glassdoor data, to give you a better idea of the potential income you can earn after graduation:
- Automotive Engineer – 72,320 USD/year
- CAD Technician – 47,445 USD/year
- Mechanical Engineer – 70,965 USD/year
- Nuclear Engineer – 77,120 USD/year
- Aerospace Engineer – 79,700 USD/year
- Civil Engineer – 76,540 USD/year
- Mining Engineer – 72,320 USD/year
The mission has been completed! You now have the necessary tools to take on the world of Mechanical Engineering. Remember that if studying overseas isn’t a possibility, you may always look into online Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering programs.
Best wishes, enjoy your studies, and have a successful career!