Steps On How To Become A Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineers investigate, design, and test mechanical systems, processes, or machines to solve issues or increase efficiency. Becoming a mechanical engineer usually entails substantial schooling, training, and certification requirements. If you appreciate working with machinery and solving practical problems, you might want to study how to become a mechanical engineer.

What does a mechanical engineer do?

Mechanical engineers design and create mechanical equipment such as engines, machinery, and other components. They can work in a variety of areas, such as health care, energy, and automobile production. These industries employ mechanical engineering principles to investigate, design, install, and maintain mechanical processes and systems. They could evaluate operational plans or inspect machinery. They often collaborate with a team of technicians and engineers.

While their tasks may vary based on their position or employer, mechanical engineers typically perform the following duties:

• Inspecting mechanical processes, machinery or parts to analyze problems
• Researching, sketching and designing mechanical systems using engineering principles
• Operating various equipment and software, including computer-aided design (CAD) software
• Creating and testing prototypes to assess their designs and make adjustments as needed
• Collaborating with other team members, such as technicians, in the manufacturing process

How to become a mechanical engineer

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree

Mechanical engineers are often required to have at least a bachelor’s degree. You can get a degree in mechanical engineering or a similar discipline like electrical or general engineering. To ensure that you may become licensed after graduation, attend a college or university that has been approved by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

During your studies, you can study math and science classes to prepare for a job in mechanical engineering. If you know you want to specialize in a certain area of mechanical engineering, such as aeronautics, you can take appropriate coursework in that field. Some common classes you may take during an undergraduate program are:

• Thermodynamics
• Engineering statistics
• Fluid mechanics
• Biomechanics
• Mechanical component design
• System dynamics
• Manufacturing management
• Engineering ethics
• Technical writing
• Robotic systems

2. Complete an internship

Many colleges and institutions require mechanical engineering students to do an internship as part of their studies. Even if your school does not have this requirement, completing an internship can provide you with valuable work experience. Internships are frequently available with engineering firms, manufacturing corporations, and R&D groups. An internship allows you to use your knowledge and gain practical skills while working under the supervision of professional engineers.

3. Become licensed

Some positions may need you to get a state license to work as an engineer. Investigate the regulations in your state to ensure that you follow the rules in your area. Many states allow you to get your state license by passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) test administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying. After getting some professional experience, you can demonstrate your skills by obtaining a Professional Engineering (PE) license.

4. Consider a certification

While optional, you can obtain certifications to demonstrate to employers your abilities and understanding in several mechanical engineering disciplines. Earning a certification will help you highlight your skills and set yourself apart from other candidates when applying for jobs. Mechanical engineers typically receive specialist certifications from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. You can obtain a credential in the following areas:

• Stress analysis
• Convection heat transfer
• Advanced control systems design
• Advanced materials mechanics
• Dynamic systems

5. Continue your education

Mechanical engineers can pursue their master’s degree after completing their bachelor’s program. Some colleges offer a combined curriculum to get both degrees, which typically takes five years. While a bachelor’s degree can get you an entry-level employment, a master’s degree in mechanical engineering can help you advance in the field. An advanced degree may open up more career opportunities or boost your earning potential. Investigate several programs and schools to assist you decide whether to pursue a master’s degree.

Mechanical engineer skills

Mechanical engineers typically have a variety of skills to help them perform their job tasks successfully. Some helpful skills for mechanical engineers include:

• Creativity: Good mechanical engineers develop and implement creative solutions to solve complex problems or make improvements.

• Analysis: It’s important for mechanical engineers to have strong analytical skills so they can review problems and determine appropriate solutions.

• Mathematical skills: Often, mechanical engineers apply various mathematical principles, including calculus, geometry and statistics, to their designs or solutions.

• Mechanical skills: Mechanical engineers have a comprehensive understanding of mechanical principles, resources and tools to do their jobs well.

• Communication: It’s common for mechanical engineers to meet with clients, stakeholders and other team members, and communication skills can help them express their ideas and explain complex topics clearly.

• Computer skills: It’s helpful for mechanical engineers to have computer skills so they can research mechanical concepts and create designs using various software.

Mechanical engineer salary and job outlook

The national average annual income for mechanical engineers is $85,190. Your income may vary depending on your geographic region, job, experience, education, and licenses or certifications. Specializing in a specialized area of mechanical engineering, such as automotive or biotechnology, will typically help you earn more money.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 2% increase in mechanical engineer employment by 2031. While this is slower than the typical growth rate for other occupations, the BLS predicts that companies will have approximately 17,900 openings for mechanical engineers per year. The demand for mechanical engineers may differ by industry. According to the BLS, manufacturing organizations may have a higher demand for mechanical engineers capable of designing complicated automation systems and machinery.