Much like law and medicine, a successful career in engineering requires a lot of study and dedication. Entry-level engineering jobs usually ask for an undergraduate degree qualification, while some vacancies are only available to postgraduate degree holders. Engineering is a scientific discipline in which knowledge and precision are crucial, and extensive practical experience is often a primary requirement for more specialised positions .
Some industries still offer apprenticeship schemes, although they’re not as common as they used to be. Generally speaking, mechanical engineering is the field with the most available apprenticeship schemes, and the automotive industry in particular is a good place to start followed by design and electrical engineering
However, the best way into a job in engineering is to study for an undergraduate degree. Although many universities offer degree courses in general engineering, it’s good to have an idea of your particular field of specialisation before you start. Engineering is an extremely diverse vocation, and although many engineers possess transferable skills, practical experience is often only relevant to the field in which it was gained and as so its always good to stay and focus in one field.
The five main fields of engineering are chemical, civil, electrical, geotechnical and mechanical, although each contains a variety of subdivisions. For example, satellite design and computer software programming are both electrical engineering jobs, but are very different to one another. If you investigate the full range of fields at the beginning of your career, you’ll be able to plan a trajectory that will take you where you want to go.
The ICE provides a number of membership grades, which are all internationally recognised within the sector. Students can join for free, and only need to begin paying when they upgrade to graduate membership. With further experience, a civil engineer can attain standard, technician or associate membership, while a long and prestigious career will earn you the opportunity to become a fellow of the ICE.
Institutes for most key areas of engineering offer further training and can be a useful resource.
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