Engineering

Do you love figuring out how things work? Are you a natural problem-solver who enjoys designing creative solutions and seeing them come to life? If you’re fascinated by the intersection of math, science, and real-world application, then a career in Engineering might be exactly what you’re looking for! This field is for innovators, critical thinkers, and dedicated builders who aren’t afraid to tackle complex challenges and create the technologies, infrastructure, and systems that shape our world.
The Basics
Engineering is the application of scientific principles and mathematics to design, create, and maintain structures, machines, systems, and processes. It’s an incredibly broad and vital field, with specialized disciplines dedicated to nearly every aspect of modern life. An engineer’s work can be as small as designing a microchip or as large as building a skyscraper.
You might find yourself working in diverse roles such as:
- Aerospace Engineer: Designing, developing, and testing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles.
- Biomedical Engineer: Applying engineering principles to medicine and biology to design medical devices, diagnostic equipment, or artificial organs.
- Chemical Engineer: Using principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and math to design large-scale chemical manufacturing processes and optimize production.
- Civil Engineer: Designing, building, and maintaining public works projects such as roads, bridges, dams, and buildings.
- Computer Hardware Engineer: Researching, designing, developing, and testing computer equipment, from circuit boards and processors to routers and input devices.
- Electrical Engineer: Designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems and electronic components, from power grids and telecommunications to household appliances.
- Environmental Engineer: Using engineering principles to solve environmental problems, such as pollution control, waste management, and public health.
- Industrial Engineer: Optimizing complex processes or systems to eliminate waste and improve efficiency in manufacturing and service industries.
- Mechanical Engineer: Designing, developing, building, and testing mechanical devices, including engines, tools, and machines of all kinds.
- Software Engineer: Applying engineering principles to the design, development, maintenance, testing, and evaluation of computer software.
You could be in a research lab, a manufacturing plant, a government agency, a construction site, or even a tech company’s headquarters!
Why Engineering?
This career path is about making a tangible difference in the world. As an engineer, you’ll be on the front lines of innovation, creating solutions to some of society’s biggest problems, from developing sustainable energy sources to designing life-saving medical technology. The work is constantly evolving, offering endless opportunities to learn new skills and adapt to new challenges. Engineers are in high demand across nearly every industry, and the field offers competitive salaries, strong job stability, and a clear sense of purpose.
Preparation
A strong academic foundation is the cornerstone of an engineering career. A bachelor’s degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), such as a Wake Forest University B.S. Engineering Degree, is the standard starting point. A strong foundation in math, physics, and chemistry is essential.
Beyond the classroom, gaining practical experience is crucial. Seek out internships or co-op programs with engineering firms, manufacturing companies, or government agencies. Participate in hands-on projects, such as building a robot for a competition or contributing to open-source software. Learn to use industry-standard software like CAD (Computer-Aided Design), MATLAB, or programming languages relevant to your field. Developing strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and excellent communication will be invaluable, as you’ll often be collaborating with diverse teams and presenting your ideas.
Key Skills To thrive as an engineer, cultivate these essential skills:
- Analytical Skills: The ability to evaluate complex data and identify the root cause of a problem.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in design, calculations, and testing to prevent errors.
- Communication: Clearly articulating complex technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Critical Thinking: Logically analyzing situations and applying engineering principles to find optimal solutions.
- Mathematical Proficiency: A strong command of algebra, calculus, and other advanced mathematical concepts.
- Problem-Solving: The core of engineering—identifying problems and designing creative, effective solutions.
- Project Management: Organizing tasks, managing resources, and meeting deadlines for complex projects.
- Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with other engineers, designers, and non-technical staff.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency with industry-specific software, tools, and equipment.
- Time Management: Juggling multiple responsibilities and prioritizing tasks efficiently.
Career Readiness
- Coaching Appointments: Schedule an appointment with a career coach at the OPCD for personalized guidance on:
- Resumes & cover letters
- Major or career exploration
- Internship and job search strategies
- Networking techniques
- Interview preparation
- Job offer evaluation and negotiation
- Navigating graduate or professional school applications
- Quick Questions:
- For quick questions, drop in Mon-Thu from 1:30 to 4:30.
- Wake Your Resume: Attend our Wake Your Resume workshops on Wednesdays in the OPCD during the academic year. Search for a session and register on Handshake.
Career Search
Handshake:
- Profile: Update your Handshake profile and career interests to see relevant opportunities.
- Collections: Make selection in the Collections dropdown:
Networking: Utilize LinkedIn to connect with Wake Forest University alumni. Learn more about networking.
Job Search Resources:
- ASCE Career Connections (for Civil Engineering)
- Engineering.com Jobs
- IEEE Job Site (for Electrical and Electronics Engineers)
- iHireEngineering
Other Resources
Professional Organizations/Sites:
- American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
- American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
- American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
- National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
- Society of Automotive Engineers International (SAE International)
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
- The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society (TMS)