Mechanical Engineering Education and Training

Train to work for a mechanical engineering firm

Mechanical engineering covers a wide range of services. Those trained to work for mechanical engineering companies can use their skills to build and repair mechanical systems, design mechanical systems, or consult with companies on customized systems. A mechanical engineering degree from a college or university is required, but there are also many other educational opportunities for those already in the field.

There is an abundance of mechanical engineering information to be learned to work as an engineer for any company or consulting firm. You can find this information through mechanical engineering education and training opportunities such as:

1. A college degree in mechanical engineering.

2. Continuing education and certification through online courses.

3. Seminars and workshops hosted by mechanical engineering services and organizations.

 

Get a college degree to start your career as a mechanical engineer

Mechanical engineering is a broad and complicated topic. This is why a full four-year education is necessary to qualify for work as an engineer. There are many schools throughout the country that have excellent mechanical engineering programs to fit your needs.
Try: Purdue University has a comprehensive school of mechanical engineering that provides many classroom hours and design courses. MIT offers a similar program, with a focus on mechanical design and real world experience. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics outlines the education and training requirements for mechanical engineers.

Get your license as a mechanical engineer

Engineers must be licensed by a state to work in the U.S. The first step is taking the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, typically just after graduation, followed by the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam, after a required work period.
Try: Get the details on the licensing exams from the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying.

Explore internship opportunities through schools and mechanical engineering firms

Internship opportunities are a great way for mechanical engineering students to get hands-on training in the workplace. Many schools provide students with a list of companies that offer paid or unpaid internships for credit. Students will be able to build upon what they've learned in the classroom while picking up practical work experience.
Try: Bechtel Plant Machinery, a manufacturer of Navy warships, offers internship positions to junior and senior mechanical engineering students. Disney also offers an internship program for mechanical engineers where they can get practical experience working with the mechanics who design rides and vehicle systems.

Attend workshops and seminars for the mechanical engineering industry

After you study mechanical engineering, you need to stay sharp and keep building on your skills. You can do this by attending workshops and seminars for the industry. These sessions teach professionals new skills, and introduce them to new innovations in design and technology that could change the way they work.
Try: The American Society of Mechanical Engineers provides seminars for students, as well as seminars for those in the workforce. The National Society of Professional Engineers offers seminars that help attendees study for licensing and get the skills needed to work with clients, among other useful topics.

 

• If you want to go into machine design for automotive or robotics, it is a good idea to join engineering organizations tailored to these concentrations.

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