Those who study engineering are expected to develop a range of practical skills, highly valued nowadays, in our technological world. Engineering is a vast field, which is divided into several different disciplines (chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, automotive engineering etc.), so the possible careers for engineering graduates are varied. This way, you can choose the most relevant specialization for the desired career, which must be, of course, related to what you are passionate about.
As a field, mechanical engineering appeared in the 18th century, during the Industrial Revolution in Europe; however, it can be traced way back in history, around the world, in different development stages. It is perhaps the most varied of the engineering disciplines.
The specialists in this field are the mechanical engineers, who work using the principles of movement, energy and force to ensure that projects operate safely and efficiently.
Examples of mechanical engineers:
- Automotive Research Engineers
- Heating and cooling system engineers
- Engineers in robotics, etc.
What does a mechanical engineering specialist do?
Mechanical engineering plays a vital role in the development of processes and products. Mechanical engineers are involved throughout the life cycle of a product, whether it is a research phase or a development phase. They are widely engaged in sectors such as manufacturing, energy, construction and healthcare, therefore play an important role in many industries – automotive, electronics, energy, aerospace, informatics, biotechnology, automation and more.
Mechanical engineers deal with the design and manufacture of everything from small parts (e.g., miniature connectors) to large tools and machines. These specialists take care of a product from the design phase to finish, by taking into account everything from the aesthetic side, to functionality and durability.
Mechanical engineers can develop a wide range of products that include: transmissions, engine components, control systems, disk units, printers, semiconductor tools, sensors, turbines, compressors, machine tools, robots and many others.
Who are the employers?
Many large companies have a continuous need for engineering services. Mechanical engineering companies represent only some of these employers; enterprises in various industries are also actively recruiting these workers, including consumer electronics, information technology, the arts and entertainment, as well as the federal government.
People choose to get specialized in mechanical engineering due to the versatility of the field, which ensures many related jobs available, including alternative careers such as aerospace, project management, chemical industry, acquisitions, construction industry, technical writing, academic field, operational management, supply chain management, technical consulting and training, technical sales and logistics.
A significant number of mechanical engineers work for NASA, Google, Boeing Company, Apple, Microsoft, GE Aviation, Ford Motor Company, Walt Disney Company, NVIDIA, etc.
At the same time, they are also good candidates for the US Department of Energy jobs. Mechanical engineers working for the Department of Energy play an essential role in identifying and developing sustainable and clean energy systems, which are safe, economically viable and environmentally-friendly, using renewable energy. The identification of advanced methods and the establishment of those systems for the disposal of radioactive waste is also a possibility.
The recommendations of mechanical engineers working for the Department of Energy influence the national energy policies.