Engineering is a field that offers an array of exciting, challenging, and rewarding career opportunities. However, many students are often reluctant to pursue engineering due to misconceptions or a lack of knowledge about what it entails. As someone who has worked in the engineering industry for several years, I can confidently say there are things I wish I had known before starting my journey as an engineer.
In this article, we will explore why pursuing an online master’s of engineering degree and career is ideal and discuss some things you should know before embarking on this path. From job prospects to salary expectations and beyond, we will cover all aspects of this fascinating field and provide insights into why many people choose to become engineers.
1. Expect To Learn On the Job
Starting a new job in the engineering field can be quite intimidating. You may think you need all the technical knowledge before starting, but there is a lot to learn on the job. As someone who has been working as an engineer for several years, I can safely say that there are a few things I wish I had known when starting out.
Firstly, you must understand that you will not know everything immediately. Engineering is a vast field with many branches and specializations – no one knows everything about it. So, do not be afraid to ask questions or seek clarification from your colleagues or supervisor when necessary.
2. Communication Skills are Crucial
Communication skills are crucial in any profession but especially important in engineering. Engineers work on complex projects that involve multiple stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and other team members. To succeed as an engineer, you must communicate effectively with all these people.
One of the things I wish I had known about engineering is just how important communication skills are. You will spend much time working on technical designs and calculations as an engineer. However, your ability to explain those designs and calculations to others will ultimately determine your success. You may have the best ideas in the world, but they won’t go anywhere if you can’t communicate them clearly and persuasively.
3. Networking Opens Doors
Students often overlook some things about engineering or do not learn until they enter the workforce. One of these crucial things is networking. Networking can open doors and provide opportunities that may not be available otherwise.
Regarding networking in engineering, attend conferences, participate in professional organizations, and connect with alumni from your school who work in engineering fields you are interested in. By doing so, you’ll be able to learn about different aspects of engineering and get insights into industry trends and advancements.
4. Time Management is Crucial
Time management is crucial for any profession but especially important for engineers. As an engineering student, there are many things that I wish I had known about time management before entering the field. One of the most important lessons I have learned is prioritizing my tasks efficiently.
I thought completing a task was always the best approach. However, this often led to sloppy work or missed deadlines. Now, I understand that taking the time to plan and organize my tasks can help me accomplish them more efficiently in the long run.
5. Failure is Part of The Process
As an engineer, it is easy to become disheartened by the setbacks and failures you encounter. However, it is important to remember that failure is a necessary part of the process. Without failure, we would not learn from our mistakes or be able to improve upon our designs.
One thing I wish I had known about engineering when I was just starting is that there will be times when things do not go according to plan. It does not mean you are a bad engineer or your idea isn’t worth pursuing. It simply means that you need to reassess your approach and try again.
