EXPLORING ENGINEERING CAREERS

Engineering plays a leading role in shaping the world around us. As a profession, it has enduring appeal, and for someone considering a career in engineering, there are many routes to choose from. 

When recruiting for engineering positions, employers favour candidates who are logical, analytical and curious. The ideal engineer will have creativity and problem-solving skills in equal measure, alongside the ability to push boundaries. English, maths and science skills will help you get a job in the sector.

There are many ways to enter engineering: you can take a university degree, an apprenticeship, or start as a trainee or technician. Here are six career pathways to consider if you are interested in engineering.

1.    Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace and aeronautical engineering could see you working on helicopters, planes, drones and even rockets. Apprenticeships with aerospace firms exist at different levels but can be highly competitive. If you are still at school, try your best to get relevant work experience whilst working hard to achieve your English, maths and science qualifications. This applies to all engineering roles.

What could your career look like? Your employer could be a manufacturer, or you could work in inspection or testing flying vehicles. Later in your career, perhaps follow in the footsteps of those who have moved into management, safety inspections or accident investigations. Or how about mission planning for space projects?

2.    Chemical Engineering

Your mobile phone, the petrol sold on your local forecourt, and the food we eat all rely on chemical engineering. It’s about designing and operating large-scale processes that turn raw materials into consumer and industrial products.

Career Inspiration! You could design manufacturing processes to produce anything from paper to pharmaceuticals. You might start your career by assisting in a laboratory with small-scale experiments. Next, you could progress into project management or a field like the environment, finding sustainable solutions to manufacturing challenges.  

3. Civil Engineering

Civil engineers shape cities and design structures such as roads and bridges. Their work involves designing, planning, and constructing major building projects. Just as important is making structures safe, effective, and sustainable. Did you know that the buttresses on the outside of Paddy’s Wigwam, the catholic cathedral in Liverpool, were not part of the architect’s design but were added by the engineers?

Career Inspiration! Jobs include urban designer, town planner and structural engineer. Perhaps you will progress into consulting on large-scale projects. You will probably work alongside other professionals, from architects to construction workers. From time to time, the Institute of Civil Engineering runs taster days about pursuing a degree in this area.

4. Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering is one of the most popular career aspirations among young men. Many educational initiatives and establishments encourage women to choose this career too. When it comes to the future, this is an exciting sector, busy designing small items like the next generation of pocket devices right up to overseeing power stations.  

Career Inspiration! A career in electrical engineering is usually secure and well-paid. Choice and variety are certainly on the cards when it comes to job settings. There is ongoing demand for new and improved energy systems, ever-enhanced versions of electric goods, and faster telecommunications systems. Electrical engineers can find employment in almost every sector of the economy, from solving challenges in firms like Jaguar, to working for the National Grid, keeping the country running.

5. Marine engineering

Take your skills to the oceans, rivers and seas! Marine engineering is a career that promises a backdrop of adventure whilst you’re developing state-of-the-art solutions for anything from ships to offshore wind farms. Liverpool Bay has one of the largest wind farms in the world and was the first to deploy what were once the globe’s biggest turbines. Submarines, offshore platforms, and drilling equipment also fall under the career umbrella of marine engineering.

Career Inspiration! Where to start? How about superyacht maintenance? Or a career with a firm working on government defence projects? Even with no qualifications, you can join The Royal Navy to train as a marine technician. Another career route is the merchant navy, perhaps starting in the engine department and then rising through the ranks to become a chief engineer for cruise or cargo ships and ferries.

6. Software and computer engineering

If you are a tech geek, this career has your name on it. The pace of change in technology means there is a perpetual skills shortage. You’ll need an appetite to design, code, and maintain systems, working in areas such as AI, mobile apps, gaming, or big data. Cybersecurity skills are also in high demand, so if you want a serious job and fabulous pay, consider this specialism

What could your career look like? An increasing number of firms are creating roles for Artificial Intelligence (AI) apprentices, which can provide a route into a career. There is even an apprenticeship to become an advanced robotics engineer. Data engineering can see you building large-scale systems,  perhaps working for firms like Very in Speke or nationwide organisations that rely on data, such as the NHS.

Engineering the future

As the world evolves, skilled human input is needed to bring technology and solutions to life. Engineering is one of the most exciting sectors to work in, and salaries are rapidly on the rise. One thing is clear: Whatever your interests, a career in engineering provides great job security, enviable career prospects, and job satisfaction through making a difference. The future could be engineered by you!