How to Become a Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineering is the application of physics and other science fields to create vehicles and structures, as well as many of the components inside them. This engineering field is very broad and often allows people to work in an industry that interest them personally, such as aerospace, automotive or robotics. Many people follow a general path to become a mechanical engineer.
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Instructions
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Become a Mechanical Engineer
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Enter the mechanical engineering program during college. Most universities require one year of general engineering course work before you can begin to specialize your degree. Look for student groups to help you with course work, as well as co-op and job searches.
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Talk to a few of your professors about undergraduate research opportunities. Doing research is a great way to learn more about what mechanical engineers do while building references and contacts in the field. In many schools, student research is done during the first 3 years, because students have to do their own projects during their final year of college.
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Look for a co-op with an engineering company. The job market is saturated with recent engineering graduates, and co-op experience helps set your application apart. Be sure to use the professor you researched with as both a reference and a guide during the co-op search.
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Become a licensed professional engineer to increase your employment opportunities. You'll need to pass two exams as well as spend a certain number of years as either an engineering intern or an engineer-in-training. For more information, contact the group that oversees licenses, the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (see Resources below).
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Consider doing graduate course work in mechanical engineering. While not required to become a mechanical engineer, a master's degree can help you get a higher paying job in the industry you're most interested in. You can also get a master's in engineering management if you'd rather oversee a group of mechanical engineers than work as one.
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Tips & Warnings
Most college professors have connections to the engineering industry. It's important to build good relationships with your teachers so that you can make contacts with future employers.
It may be difficult to take on an academic minor in addition to working toward your engineering degree, but you should try to create a resume that will distinguish you from other recent graduates. You should also consider doing the honors mechanical engineering curriculum if your school offers one.
Ask your employer if the company will pay for your graduate degree. Many companies help fund employee education to ensure that their workers stay on top of industry advancements.
