Building a Career in Engineering
by Diane Anselmo
What it's All About
Ever wonder how the beautiful skyscrapers that grace many cities are actually built? How is it that the structure stands up and the drainage system works properly? Undoubtedly, someone's brains were behind the operation -- specifically those of an engineer.
Engineers are the people who take ideas and turn them into reality, says Liz Trimpin, a civil engineer who knows all about this process. There's much more to being an engineer than designing buildings though.
"There are many different aspects of engineering," begins Trimpin, "but some of the more popular areas include civil, structural, chemical, and electrical." Civil engineering, what Trimpin does, deals with how the land itself works. "Every time you see something being built a civil engineer has been involved," says Trimpin. "The engineer plans all aspects of the project out in advance, such as roads, driveways, and drainage, so that the contractor will have a specific set of instructions once the project gets started."
Besides making sure that all is running smoothly, an engineer must also assure that plans meet all safety regulations and, perhaps the greatest challenge, stay within a budget, says Trimpin.
What You Need To Know
For those interested in pursuing a career in engineering, be aware: The profession is highly mathematics- and science-based. In addition to concentrating on numbers and formulas, Trimpin also recommends getting some experience in drawing and art classes. "Many times engineers have to go to a site and then sketch what they see. Having some drawing experience will better enable you to look at something that is three-dimensional and transfer it onto paper," she says.
Once you reach your college years, it's in your best interest to attend a college or university that offers an engineering major. "The first two years of engineering school are rough," warns Trimpin. "The last two years, however, involve much more practical experience."
As always, the more practical experience you get, the better off you are. For this reason, Trimpin strongly suggests spending some time doing internships as an undergraduate. "It is important to be in the engineering environment to see what's going on."
After completing your degree in engineering, the next step will be to take the necessary licensing exams. You must have four years of experience behind you in order to do this. Once you become licensed, you can expect to be given a lot more responsibility, a salary increase, and more authority on the job.
How Much You'll Make
Starting salaries in the engineering world vary a bit, depending on your level of experience (that's where those internships come in), the company, and the location, but they usually range from $47,000 to $92,000. According to Trimpin, your salary will rise once you earn your license. "You will probably make a big financial jump when you get your license, although after that the pay increases are a bit slower."
What You'll Feel
While there are many exciting things about a career in engineering, Trimpin finds seeing a project come to completion the most rewarding. "I get a lot of satisfaction out of seeing things go from paper to reality."
As for her least favorite part, Trimpin could live without the many obstacles she comes across in her projects. "You have to try and think of everything that could possibly happen, but it always takes longer than you think it will."
A Final Thought
"Use the time now to get some practical experience," advises Trimpin. "Get a summer job that will let you see the engineering process. You'll be much better off in the end."
Ever wonder how the beautiful skyscrapers that grace many cities are actually built? How is it that the structure stands up and the drainage system works properly? Undoubtedly, someone's brains were behind the operation -- specifically those of an engineer.
Engineers are the people who take ideas and turn them into reality, says Liz Trimpin, a civil engineer who knows all about this process. There's much more to being an engineer than designing buildings though.
"There are many different aspects of engineering," begins Trimpin, "but some of the more popular areas include civil, structural, chemical, and electrical." Civil engineering, what Trimpin does, deals with how the land itself works. "Every time you see something being built a civil engineer has been involved," says Trimpin. "The engineer plans all aspects of the project out in advance, such as roads, driveways, and drainage, so that the contractor will have a specific set of instructions once the project gets started."
Besides making sure that all is running smoothly, an engineer must also assure that plans meet all safety regulations and, perhaps the greatest challenge, stay within a budget, says Trimpin.
What You Need To Know
For those interested in pursuing a career in engineering, be aware: The profession is highly mathematics- and science-based. In addition to concentrating on numbers and formulas, Trimpin also recommends getting some experience in drawing and art classes. "Many times engineers have to go to a site and then sketch what they see. Having some drawing experience will better enable you to look at something that is three-dimensional and transfer it onto paper," she says.
Once you reach your college years, it's in your best interest to attend a college or university that offers an engineering major. "The first two years of engineering school are rough," warns Trimpin. "The last two years, however, involve much more practical experience."
As always, the more practical experience you get, the better off you are. For this reason, Trimpin strongly suggests spending some time doing internships as an undergraduate. "It is important to be in the engineering environment to see what's going on."
After completing your degree in engineering, the next step will be to take the necessary licensing exams. You must have four years of experience behind you in order to do this. Once you become licensed, you can expect to be given a lot more responsibility, a salary increase, and more authority on the job.
How Much You'll Make
Starting salaries in the engineering world vary a bit, depending on your level of experience (that's where those internships come in), the company, and the location, but they usually range from $47,000 to $92,000. According to Trimpin, your salary will rise once you earn your license. "You will probably make a big financial jump when you get your license, although after that the pay increases are a bit slower."
What You'll Feel
While there are many exciting things about a career in engineering, Trimpin finds seeing a project come to completion the most rewarding. "I get a lot of satisfaction out of seeing things go from paper to reality."
As for her least favorite part, Trimpin could live without the many obstacles she comes across in her projects. "You have to try and think of everything that could possibly happen, but it always takes longer than you think it will."
A Final Thought
"Use the time now to get some practical experience," advises Trimpin. "Get a summer job that will let you see the engineering process. You'll be much better off in the end."
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