How to Become an Engineer | WHAT IS ENGINEERING? (DEFINITION AND TYPES)
6 min readENGINEERING PATHWAY: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE ON HOW TO BECOME AN ENGINEER
What is an engineer?
Engineering is the art of applying scientific and mathematical principles, experience, judgment, and common sense to make things that benefit people. Engineers design bridges and important medical equipment as well as processes for cleaning up toxic spills and systems for mass transit. Engineering is the process of producing a technical product or system to meet a specific need. Engineers work in many different fields, including civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical and software engineering. They use their technical knowledge and skills to research, develop, test and analyse various systems and processes, often resulting in new or improved materials and products.
As an engineer, you may work on projects that range from building infrastructure, such as bridges, highways and airports, to developing unique technological solutions in emerging domains, such as artificial intelligence, robotics and renewable energy. In this role, you often collaborate with other professionals, such as architects, scientists, technicians and business leaders, to ensure that projects are safe, cost effective and environmentally friendly. In addition, you may be responsible for ensuring projects meet legal and regulatory requirements and industry standards.
What types of engineers are there?
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Aerospace engineer: These engineers focus on space exploration and aviation. They design and build aerospace technologies, aircraft and spacecraft, and often specialise in a particular field, such as thermodynamics, aerodynamics or propulsion.
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Automotive engineer: This role concentrates on designing, building and testing products within the automotive industry.
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Biomedical engineer: These specialists create innovative solutions to health- and medical-related problems by combining their knowledge of biology and medicine to design systems and products that further the advancement of medicine.
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Chemical engineer: Individuals working in this field use their chemical expertise to create solutions for problems relating to chemical products and production.
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Civil engineer: The role of these professionals is to develop and oversee the construction of roads, airports, bridges, sewage systems and other infrastructure that supports society.
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Computer engineer: These engineers design and build all components of computers and computer systems, including sensors, networks, memory devices and computer hardware.
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Electrical engineer: This type of engineer spends their time designing, testing and implementing electrical equipment and solutions for various industries.
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Industrial engineer: Engineers working in this field are responsible for designing, building and maintaining manufacturing and industrial processes.
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Materials engineer: These engineers specialise in developing, testing and implementing new materials for a variety of products and industries.
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Safety engineer: Engineers in this field aim to increase the overall safety and efficiency of a variety of products and industries.
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Systems engineer: This role involves working to ensure that complex systems are operating in an efficient and productive manner.
How To Become An Engineer?
Use these steps as a guide on how to become an engineer:
1. Identify your preferences
Consider which branches of engineering you want to specialise in, such as mechanical, electrical, civil, computer science or aerospace engineering, and research the career prospects of each discipline. Investigate each area to gain a basic understanding of what it involves and what kind of work you might be doing in each. Once you have an idea of which field interests you the most, start exploring specific subfields and specialities within that role. Also think about your personal interests and strengths, such as whether you enjoy problem-solving, working with your hands or focusing exclusively on technology.
2. Complete higher secondary education
To apply for undergraduate engineering courses, first complete your higher secondary education. Choose subjects such as physics, chemistry, mathematics and computer science in your 10+1 and 10+2 to develop a relevant academic foundation for your undergraduate studies. Reputable engineering colleges typically require candidates to secure an aggregate score above 50% in a valid and recognised 10+2 board examination to enrol in an engineering degree course.
3. Clear entrance examinations
After you complete your school requirements, research the entrance exam requirements for the engineering colleges or universities you are considering. Once you have identified the relevant exams, gather the necessary study materials, such as textbooks, sample papers and previous years’ question papers. You can also enrol in online or offline coaching classes for better preparation.
To prepare effectively, develop a personalised study plan that works for you. Set aside specific hours each day for studying, and maintain a fixed schedule. Practise mock tests regularly to become familiar with exam patterns and time-management strategies. This can help you build your confidence and improve your speed and accuracy.
4. Apply to engineering colleges
Once you clear the relevant entrance examinations, start applying to engineering colleges that offer the courses in which you want to specialise. Check the eligibility criteria, admission procedures and the required entrance exam score or ranking for each course you are considering. You can apply either through college websites or through centralised admission portals. Carefully fill in the application forms with all necessary details, attach any required documents, such as mark sheets, certificates and photographs, and pay the application fee if necessary.
Once you have submitted your applications, keep copies of the confirmation receipts or application numbers for future reference. Later in the process, colleges typically release a merit list or call for counselling. There may also be further stages, such as document verification.
5. Complete a degree course
After joining an engineering college, work through all modules and complete your coursework and projects within the timelines. During an undergraduate engineering programme, students typically learn the theoretical and practical aspects of the subject, often with hands-on training through internships and projects. After completing the programme, you may receive a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) or a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) degree, depending on the specifications of your course.
6. Consider a postgraduate degree
For postgraduate education, consider options such as Master of Technology (MTech), Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Engineering (ME) programmes. These courses provide advanced knowledge and practical training in various aspects of engineering. To apply, you may require a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, with a minimum percentage or cumulative grade point average. Some institutions look for a minimum score or ranking in entrance exams or other university-specific exams.
The benefits of pursuing a postgraduate course are significant. This academic study provides an opportunity to specialise in a particular field of engineering and acquire advanced knowledge and skills that can help you gain a competitive advantage in the job market. Postgraduate education typically enhances your career prospects and earning potential. It also provides opportunities to pursue research and development in engineering and contribute to the advancement of technology. Many companies prefer to hire candidates with a postgraduate degree, as they may be more competent and experience.
7. Apply for engineering jobs
Start by creating a resume that highlights your skills, qualifications and relevant work experience in the field. Then search for job openings through online job portals, company websites or with the help of recruitment agencies. When you find a job that interests you, read the description carefully and ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria before applying. Follow the application process carefully, which may include submitting an online application, sending a resume and cover letter and attending one or more interviews
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What qualities do successful engineers have?
- Strong in mathematics and science
- Highly analytical and detail-oriented
- Imaginative and creative
- Good communication skills
- Enjoy working in teams
- Enjoy building or improving the way things work
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