Engineering
Nature of the Industry
Engineers are the bridges between scientific and mathematical laws and practical products. In essence, they translate science and math into solutions for the everyday problems and needs of businesspeople and consumers. Engineers are involved in nearly every aspect of product design from inception to testing, manufacturing, and upkeep. Engineering jobs fall into seventeen areas of specialty. These can be roughly subdivided into four main areas of science with the understanding that most engineering jobs require an extensive knowledge base in all areas of science-biology: agricultural and environmental; chemistry: biomedical, health, and safety; geology: civil, mining, geological, and petroleum; physics: aerospace, computer, electrical, electronic, industrial, materials, mechanical, and nuclear. Under the umbrella of each of the seventeen engineering specialties, there are other subdivisions. For example, civil engineers may specialize in structures, water, or transportation. Overall, forecasters expect engineering jobs to increase at moderate rate during the next several years. Prospects are especially good for biomedical and civil engineers. Civil engineers design public works, such as roads, airports, and bridges. Biomedical engineers design products, such as artificial organs and medical devices. The projected growth in engineering jobs may be due to advancements in technology and a demand for engineers in the areas of research, development, and consulting.
Types of Jobs
Engineering jobs fall into the following areas of specialty: aerospace, agricultural, biomedical, chemical, civil, computer, electrical, electronic, environmental, geological, health and safety, industrial, marine, materials, mechanical, mining, nuclear, and petroleum.
Training and Education
To obtain an engineering job, a person must possess skills in the following areas: communication, mathematics, science, and technology. An engineer must acquire a bachelor's degree in a specialty such as electrical, mechanical, or civil engineering. Engineers who provide public services must become licensed professional engineers (PE). Licensure is based on a degree from a program recognized by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), four years of work experience, and the passage of a state test.