The Little Careers Book

XX You absolutely must have a degree in engineering to work in any area of engineering; no other type of degree will do. ࢚࢚ Most good jobs in engineering, and steady progression during the first 5-10 years, depend largely on having a good degree, ideally from a good university. ࢚࢚ There are excellent alternative routes into engineering through higher and degree apprenticeships and similar work-study schemes where you end up with a degree, work experience, no debt, and money in your pocket. ࢚࢚ Unless you are 100% certain of the engineering specialism you want to pursue, choose an engineering course that gives you broad exposure. ࢚࢚ Pursuing engineering-related hobbies is a great way to demonstrate your interest and ability. ࢚࢚ If you want to work in Research and Development (R&D) or become an expert in a niche area of engineering, you should consider a doctorate degree (PhD or EngD). ࢚࢚ Becoming a Chartered Engineer (CEng) confers an advantage in the job market, though is not necessarily essential to career progression in some engineering specialisms and roles. ࢚࢚ Getting qualified as a Chartered Engineer is straight-forward and fast if done through a Master in Engineering (MEng) degree. ࢚࢚ An Engineering degree can open many doors outside the field of engineering. ࢚࢚ It is good to get allied with one of the Engineering Institutions as early as possible. MYTHS TRUTHS XX All the mathematical subjects and skills you learn and develop at A level and at university will be used in your career as an engineer. XX You must be a total maths whizz to be a good engineer. ࢚࢚ You must have a solid foundation of physics and maths skills at your fingertips. No other skills – regardless of how valuable – will replace these core skills, especially maths. ࢚࢚ Design and technology skills are good for developing spatial/3D awareness and appreciating the importance of detail. ࢚࢚ You must have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. ࢚࢚ Work experience is vital and should include experience of project management, finance, and commercial operations, not just design and manufacturing. ࢚࢚ Engineers need to be able to work well with people at all levels, from CEOs of major clients to those working to turn ideas into structures or products. ࢚࢚ Engineers often end up in management roles, so having good soft skills is essential, including project, people and team management skills; market research, report writing and sales presentation skills; and financial skills. MYTHS TRUTHS PATHWAYS TO ENTRY KEY SKILLS