Engineering is an essential part of our daily lives. Engineers are vital in creating various things like books, chairs, televisions, and clothing. Without engineers, our civilization would be stuck in the Stone Age. There are different types of engineers such as chemical, mechanical, textile, civil, agricultural, and structural engineers. These professionals have a strong background in mathematics and science and continuously adapt to advancements in materials and production techniques.
Despite offering job security and good compensation, engineering also presents its own challenges. The educational path to becoming an engineer is demanding with a focus on mastering math and science subjects. Once students complete their foundational coursework, they can choose their area of specialization within engineering for the rest of their degree.
In the final stages of their studies, many students receive job offers through recruitment or upon graduation. Employers typically prefer hiri
...ng four-year graduates with specialized expertise in a specific field of engineering. Engineering has numerous benefits including higher salaries compared to other fields (Basta 12). In 1994 alone, starting annual salaries for federal government positions reached $96,370 (Basta 12).Job security is one of the advantages of engineering, as engineers experience only a minimal increase in unemployment rates during economic downturns (Kirby 64). In addition to financial rewards, engineering offers interesting and creative work opportunities that allow individuals to stay updated with the latest technological advancements (Basta 12).
However, there are also drawbacks to the field. Engineering degrees require extensive math and science studies compared to other degrees available (Britannica 243). The demanding nature of this field is evident from the fact that only ten percent of starting students successfully graduate from an engineering program (Britannica 243).
Furthermore, engineerin
is not held in as high regard as professions like medicine or law. Engineers often face stereotypes and are less likely to be promoted to high-level positions due to their lack of accounting or business education (Basta 22). As a result, most engineers do not have the opportunity to become their own boss (Basta 22).However, the job of an engineer is a creative one as they apply their knowledge of mathematical and natural sciences to develop ways to utilize materials and forces of nature for the benefit of mankind (Bastas 24). Engineers possess foundational skills in math and science, making them similar to inventors. They are responsible for finding solutions to various problems such as creating new chemicals, designing mechanical parts, or developing computer operating programs. Engineers play a crucial role in solving problems within our materialistic society (Basta 45). They typically work in laboratories, industrial plants, or construction sites where they inspect, supervise, or solve onsite issues (Britannica 244). Engineering follows a hierarchical project management structure that includes management, development, research, design, construction, production, and operation (Britannica 245), which is necessary due to the significant time and effort required for project success. Nowadays most engineers work in experienced teams specialized in their respective fields rather than working alone (Basta 45).Teams are increasingly being used in engineering projects due to the complexity and demands of modern projects (Basta 45). This shift towards innovation has led to the development of more user-friendly technology as collaboration within team systems allows for a wider range of perspectives and ideas to be incorporated into products. Engineering has always been a dynamic field that requires keeping up with advancements in
materials and methodologies, dating back to the earliest days of human tool usage (Britannica 248). In ancient times, Egypt excelled in engineering with a focus on architectural construction, exemplified by the Sphinx and The Great Pyramids (Kirby 67). As Egypt declined in power, Rome and Greece took the lead in technological advancements and engineering innovations. One notable accomplishment was Rome's invention of aqueducts, known today as "The Aqueducts of Italy" (Kirby 68). During the Elizabethan period in England, significant advancements were made in science and art.Over time, engineering has expanded into various new fields as science emerged as a distinct discipline. Society has shifted from making assumptions to questioning its existence. Our civilization has experienced remarkable progress, particularly in this century. With the rapid development of materials, engineering has become widespread.
The invention of computers stands as our greatest achievement, revolutionizing our lives in unprecedented ways. As we look forward, computers are seen as the future of engineering, bringing both potential and challenges. These machines have completely transformed the industry, affecting everything from how blueprints are read to the production process.
Computers enable testing the structural integrity of building designs through simulations, allowing for modifications if they fail to withstand earthquakes. Additionally, computers have simplified the drawing of plans, making it more efficient than manual hand-drawn ones.
Consequently, many engineering jobs are being replaced by computers leading to unemployment among engineers. Many companies are willing to train their employees in computer skills to retain them; however some companies prefer mass layoffs.
The field of engineering has experienced significant change due to computers. I vividly remember the introduction of computers in engineering; it was a remarkable experience seeing one person
achieve the same amount of work previously done by four individuals manually.The educational requirements for becoming an engineer are demanding, but I successfully obtained a Mechanical Engineering degree from N.C. State after dedicating myself to my studies like a full-time job. The extensive amount of science and math involved in the field can be overwhelming, but it was also the most challenging task I have ever accomplished.
Most employers seek candidates with specific four-year degrees, and after graduating, I joined Burlington Industries where I designed air-conditioning systems for new industrial buildings. The work environment was excellent, as I enjoyed collaborating with a team on projects. One aspect that I loved about being an engineer was the creativity it allowed me. Whenever faced with a problem, I would create innovative systems or devices to solve it, which gave me immense personal fulfillment throughout my career.
Despite the demanding nature of engineering, pursuing a degree in this field offers numerous advantages. It encompasses various areas of expertise and allows individuals to excel in different domains. Additionally, it provides opportunities for creative work and collaboration within a team. Moreover, the compensation in this field far surpasses the average salary. Furthermore, engineering plays a crucial role in our society and without it, our civilization would be vastly different. (Steele)The text discusses the importance of engineering and its various aspects. It mentions several books as references and provides information on the career path of an engineer.
Basta, Nicholas. Engineering Careers Lincohnwood, Illinois: Career Horizons 1996.
Clancy, Tom. Submarine: A guided tour inside a Nuclear Warship. New York.
Kirby, Shelton, Richard. Engineering in History. New York, New York: McGraw Hillbrook, 1956 "Nuclear Engineering." EXPAN Career Description.
"Engineering."
Encyclopedia Britannica Online, Accessed February 23, 1999.
Joe Steele, Personal interview 3, March 1999.
According to the summary provided about engineering careers:
- In college, students take required math and science courses during their first two years of study.
- During the last two years of study, students specialize in a specific area of engineering and master it.
- Towards the end of their final year of study or after graduation they may be recruited for training positions.
- Most employers prefer hiring students with a four-year degree for entry-level positions.
In terms of salary and job security:
- Graduates with a bachelor's degree in engineering can earn higher salaries compared to graduates from other fields.
- Even in a bad economy, the unemployment rate for engineers may only increase slightly by one or two points.
However,
it is challenging to become an engineer as only ten percent of starting students in engineering programs actually graduate with a degree. Additionally,
the status associated with being an engineer is sometimes perceived as nerdyEngineers commonly work in laboratories, industrial plants, or construction sites where they inspect, supervise, or solve problems onsite. In the engineering production hierarchy, management, development, research, design, construction, production, and operations are typically included. Due to the magnitude and intricacy of issues at hand, teams of engineers frequently collaborate on projects. The great pyramids' construction and Roman aqueducts' implementation facilitated access to running water. During the Elizabethan period, notable advancements occurred in both art and science. The introduction of computers has permanently transformed the field of engineering. These machines have revolutionized the industry by facilitating faster and easier plan drawings.
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