From developing tiny microchip electronics to constructing skyscrapers, engineering is a field that has vast opportunities and helps develop a society. If you are in the process of picking the right career to pursue, you have come to the right place. This blog post explores what engineering is, the different types of engineering, how to become an engineer, and the qualities you need to thrive in this field.
What is Engineering, and the different types of Engineering
Engineering is essentially the application of science, mathematics and physics principles to design unique and innovative solutions to solve real-world problems. It involves designing and creating everything from daily objects to complex infrastructure. Engineering is a broad discipline with a variety of different subfields. Some of the most common engineering disciplines are:
1) Electrical Engineering: Focuses on the study, design, and application of equipment, devices, and systems that use electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism.
2) Mechanical Engineering: From engines to complex mechanisms, Mechanical Engineering involves designing, analyzing, and manufacturing physical machines, engines, and mechanical systems.
3) Civil Engineering: Civil engineering focuses on the design and construction of infrastructure, such as buildings, bridges, roads, and water systems.
4) Chemical Engineering: Chemical engineering focuses on applying chemistry and life sciences to convert raw materials into products that can be used for various applications.
5) Software Engineering: From designing websites to programming video games, software engineering focuses on designing and developing complex computer software systems.
6) Computer Engineering: Computer engineering focuses on designing and developing computer hardware and applying electrical engineering principles to design computer systems.
7) Aerospace Engineering: Aerospace engineering focuses on the designing and testing of specialized aircraft, spacecraft and defence systems.
8) Industrial Engineering: Industrial engineering focuses on optimizing complex systems and processes to enhance efficiency and quality.
9) Biomedical Engineering: Biomedical engineering focuses on combining engineering technological principles with medical sciences to develop and design healthcare devices, equipment and hardware.
Qualities of an Engineer
Thriving in a field like engineering, where the technology is constantly adapting and improving, can be demanding. Some qualities that can help you become an excellent engineer are problem-solving, creativity, curiosity, logical thinking, attention to detail, a passion for continuous learning and much more. Engineering is often referred to as Applied Science, and that is what it is: taking scientific knowledge and turning it into functional, innovative solutions that benefit society.
How to become an Engineer
Becoming an engineer is not an easy process and requires a genuine passion and immense dedication. First and foremost, to become an engineer, you must earn at least a bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline from an accredited institution. You must also gain some hands-on practical work experience through the form of internships or co-op programs. Licensing as a professional engineer requires passing exams and completing years of supervised work experience as a junior engineer. These licensing requirements change from province to province and vary significantly in other countries, so be sure to do your own research!