Physics and calculus combine to form the backbone of engineering courses, so understanding them is key to getting a degree. Mechanical engineering increasingly requires a strong knowledge of computer programming, so start learning it early.
Try engineering contests, too, if they are active in your area. See if there are engineering summer camps in your area.
Working with computers is now essential in all areas of mechanical engineering, and CAD can be useful in many areas of the field.
Plenty of today’s mechanical engineers started off by tinkering with Lego bricks as kids, and kept on adding new creative and problem-solving hobbies.
Don’t forget to learn about various kinds of measuring tools, too.
If you’re still not sure how something works after taking it apart, look it up and find out. Use tools appropriately, unplug things before opening them up, and don’t mess around inside televisions and CRT monitors. (The capacitors inside can hold a dangerous charge long after they are unplugged. )
Some mechanical engineers do specialize in electrical engineering and become electro-mechanical engineers. Try things like ham radio operation and computer repair. Build stereo speakers or learn the resistor codes for fun.
Create invention challenges for yourself. For instance, see how far you can make a mousetrap- or gravity- powered vehicle go.
Even fun or silly projects will help you get used to thinking about how things work, and how they are built.
Go on factory tours in your area, and ask questions during and after the tours. You might even consider getting a summer job in a factory.
Nurturing your creativity won’t just make you a better engineer; you’ll also be a more well-rounded person in general.
In many U. S. states, you won’t be able to become a licensed mechanical engineer without an ABET-accredited bachelor’s (or higher) degree in mechanical engineering.
If you already know the specific area of mechanical engineering that you want to work in—aeronautics, for instance—a more targeted and hands-on learning experience may suit you better. No degree program is purely theoretical or experiential, though. Ask questions about program content with your contacts at each college you’re considering.
Don’t give up! At some point you may fail a class and question your decision. Just remind yourself that all good things take time and effort.
Also, being able to communicate effectively with non-specialists is an important aspect of mechanical engineering.
Not only will you gain on-the-job experience, you’ll also have the opportunity to make connections with employers and others in the field. Building your professional network while you’re still in school will help you when it comes time to look for a job.
Some schools also offer 5-6 year dual programs that allow you to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in mechanical engineering. There’s a decent chance that you’ll need to earn a master’s degree at some point in order to advance your career, so think about whether it is worth working toward now or later.
This is your first step toward full licensure as a mechanical engineer. Testing and licensure requirements will be different in other countries.
While seeking a full-time job, take on part-time work, or additional internships or even volunteer opportunities that come your way. This shows that you’re energetic and eager to contribute. Co-op programs or internships can provide excellent experience while you’re seeking your first full-time job. The U. S. federal government offers co-op programs along with junior engineer hiring programs. Check the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) website for more information.
Instead of listing everything you’ve ever done, keep your resume focused on experiences that are relevant to the field and the job at hand. However, briefly mentioning skills and outside interests that emphasize your positive traits (leadership, team-building, perseverance, etc. ) can also help. If you can provide metrics of your problem solving skills, this can be helpful for setting you apart from other candidates, such as showing in percentages or numerical averages how you have previously reduced risk, saved a company money or time, or increased safety. Your cover letter needs to immediately explain why you are the ideal candidate for the job, then support this contention with evidence.
Do mock interviews with advisors, mentors, or colleagues in the field. Get used to answering common questions succinctly yet completely. Investigate the company thoroughly before the interview. Practice speaking and presenting yourself in a confident manner.
In the U. S. , the specific requirements vary by state. The 4 year requirement is found in many U. S. states, though.
Combined with your passing FE score and your 4 years of experience, passing this exam will permit you to obtain professional licensure in your U. S. state. Some U. S. states allow you to take the PE Exam before satisfying the experience requirements. Note that you will not be entitled to call yourself a Professional Engineer unless you complete all the required experience as determined by the state. [21] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source Engineering licenses are typically transferable from state to state in the U. S. , without having to take additional exams.
In the U. S. , for instance, you might join the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). [22] X Research source
CE can be earned through in-person seminars, online tutorials, and many other forms. Check with the licensing bureau in your state or your professional organization for details.
In some cases, it may make sense to work straight through from a bachelor’s, to a master’s, to a doctoral degree. Or, it may be more sensible to advance in the field for several years before starting work toward a doctorate. As before, look for accredited programs that suit your professional goals.
