For decades, engineering has been the most sought-after degree course for students across the globe looking forward to building a secure yet demanding career in the future. And while there are numerous areas and subtypes of study within the engineering discipline, mechanical engineering continues to be the King of them all.
A career in mechanical engineering is lucrative as it not only offers high packages, but also innovation at every step.
Some people possess what can be termed as an 'engineering mind' from a very young age. These people can be found taking things apart and putting them back together. They may enjoy repairing machinery or electronic equipment, learning computer programming, or tinkering with inventions. In essence, these individuals possess both a passion and an aptitude for figuring out how things work. This combination of innate ability and zeal is essential in a discipline that requires a high level of perseverance and diligence.
If you identify with these behaviors or are passionate about Physics and Mathematics, you should consider Mechanical Engineering as a career option.
In this blog, we outline some of the reasons why Mechanical Engineering is a great career choice.
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer: Steps to Take From High School
High School is the perfect time to explore career interests and possibilities to help set your course for the future.
If you wish to become a Mechanical Engineer, you can start preparing in high school by gaining the background knowledge necessary for future studies. This will include courses in the STEM fields, and might also include electives in computer science or robotics. Physics, chemistry, and higher-level math classes will all be equally useful for a career in mechanical engineering. Courses like biology or anatomy may come in handy if you wish to pursue design work in medical devices.
In college, your prep for a career in mechanical engineering will get a little more serious. You’ll need to pursue a mechanical engineering major and follow the prescribed coursework, which includes classes in calculus, engineering, physics, and computer programming.
You might choose to look for an internship or gain experience working in a lab with your professors as they conduct research to gain practical knowledge.
Finally, you might consider an accelerated program. Some schools have five-year degree programs that culminate in both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree. Although you only need a bachelor’s to get an entry-level position in the field of mechanical engineering, a master’s degree will likely accelerate your career growth and open up higher earning potential too. Doing this through a five-year accelerated program will not only save you time but also money over the long term.
Internships