No matter where you are in life, changing your career path and becoming an engineer is within your grasp.
Aerospace, chemical, environmental, electrical, and mechanical engineers leverage their mathematical and scientific expertise to solve technical issues.
Whether you’re fresh out of college and just starting or have decades of professional experience under your belt, here are five key steps to becoming an engineer.
1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering
The first of our engineer career tips is to build a solid educational foundation. This requires earning a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) accredited institution. You will have to meet basic math and science qualifications to succeed.
During the last two years of your program, you will focus on your engineering major. This involves lectures and hands-on experience that enable you to work with equipment that you’ll use on the job.
2. Complete the FE Exam
The NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying) mandates that all aspiring engineers successfully pass two licensing exams, including the FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) test.
This two-session exam is closed-book. One of the most important tips to be an engineer is being properly prepared for this critical exam.
You must have the proper identification and an exam authorization form to take the test. Don’t forget to study!
3. Get an Internship
Before you start applying for engineering jobs, you must gain work experience. The best way to accumulate professional knowledge and experience is to get an internship.
An internship will allow you to work directly with a company’s engineering equipment. These products and services that you will experience first hand during your internship will help you to land a high-paying job once you’re ready to enter the workforce.
4. Complete the PE Test
Once you pass the initial FE exam and have four or more years of work experience, you can qualify to take the PE (Principles and Practice of Engineering) exam. This test is divided by the different engineering branches and hones in on the specific concepts of each discipline. Successfully passing the PE test will complete your journey to becoming a licensed engineer.
5. Never Stop Learning
Now, to excel in your career, you must be open to always learning new trends and technologies. The engineering industry is an ever-changing one, and engineers must stay abreast of the latest advances within their field.
This involves taking ongoing educational classes, attending conferences, and staying up-to-date on news that is happening within your industry. This will help you to advance in your engineering career.
Starting on the Path Toward Becoming an Engineer
Becoming an engineer can help you achieve a financially sound and fulfilling career. To become an engineer, you must first earn your bachelor’s, pass two exams, and accumulate four years of professional experience.
If you enjoy math and science, consider becoming a professional engineer. For more career insight, make sure to check out our other articles.
