Engineering is a diverse and multi-faceted field that plays an essential role in our modern world. Engineers are problem-solvers and innovators who design, build and maintain the systems, structures, and technologies that shape our daily lives. From bridges and buildings to computers and consumer products, engineering touches nearly every aspect of our lives.
The engineering field is broad and encompasses various disciplines with unique focuses and applications. Each discipline has knowledge, skills, and tools, which all play a vital role in solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Below, we will explore various engineering careers you can pursue, including their unique focuses, tasks, and training requirements.
So, let’s have a look:
Bioengineering and biomedical engineering
Bioengineering and biomedical engineering are two interdisciplinary fields that apply engineering principles and techniques to design and develop medical devices, therapies, and systems. Both fields seek to improve human health and well-being by developing new technologies and approaches to healthcare. While you might be wondering about the bioengineering vs biomedical engineering debate, know that these two fields consist of critical differences in their focus and applications.
Bioengineering, also known as biological engineering, is a field that combines biology, engineering, and technology to design and develop products and systems that solve biological and medical problems. Bioengineers work on many projects, including developing new medical devices and therapies, designing biological systems and processes, and improving existing technologies.
On the other hand, biomedical engineering combines engineering with the principles of biology and medicine to design and develop medical technologies and systems. Biomedical engineers work on various projects, including developing medical devices and equipment, designing diagnostic and therapeutic systems, and improving existing technologies.
Both bioengineering and biomedical engineering require a bachelor’s degree with a strong foundation in engineering and biology. Most bioengineers and biomedical engineers also pursue advanced degrees, such as a master’s or Ph.D., further to their education and training.
The career outlook for bioengineers and biomedical engineers is generally positive, with strong demand for qualified professionals in these fields. According to a report by the BLS, the employment of bioengineers and biomedical engineers will grow by 7% from 2020 to 2028. In May 2020, the median annual salary for bioengineers and biomedical engineers was $88,550, with the top 10% earning over $131,350 annually.
Civil engineering
Civil engineering is a field that focuses on designing, building, and maintaining the infrastructure and systems that support modern society. Some examples of projects and tasks that civil engineers may work on include designing and building roads and highways, developing land use and development plans, designing and building structures such as bridges and buildings, and managing construction projects.
An undergraduate degree in civil engineering is a basic requirement to work as a civil engineer. The renowned Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that demand for civil engineers will increase by 6% from 2020 to 2028. In May 2020, the median annual salary for civil engineers was $87,060, with the top 10% earning over $124,520 annually.
Chemical engineering
Chemical engineering is a field that applies principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and engineering to the design, development, and operation of processes and systems that produce, transform, and transport chemicals, materials, and energy. Chemical engineers work on many projects, including developing new products and materials (e.g., plastics and fuel), improving existing processes and systems, and optimizing chemical reactions.
An undergraduate degree in chemical engineering or a related field is typically required to become a chemical engineer. As stated by BLS, the employment of chemical engineers is expected to grow by 6% from 2020 to 2028. In May 2020, the median annual salary for chemical engineers was $104,910, with the top 10% earning over $162,320 annually.
Computer engineering
This field combines computer science and electrical engineering principles to design, develop, and maintain computer systems and technologies. Some examples of projects and tasks that computer engineers may work on include designing and building computer systems and hardware, developing software and applications, working on cybersecurity and data management systems, and improving existing technologies.
According to a report by the BLS, the employment of computer engineers is expected to grow by 11% from 2020 to 2028. The median annual wage for computer engineers was $117,220 in May 2020, with those in the top 10% earning more than $162,880 per year.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science Engineering
AI (Artificial Intelligence) and Data Science engineering are two exciting and rapidly growing fields that apply principles of computer science, statistics, and machine learning to design and develop intelligent systems and technologies. These fields are driving many of the most significant technological advancements and innovations of our time. They offer a wide range of career opportunities, especially for those with the right skills and expertise.
AI engineers work on developing and implementing artificial intelligence technologies and systems, including machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, and computer vision. They design and build intelligent systems and technologies that can analyze and understand large amounts of data, make decisions, and learn from experience.
Data science engineers work on developing and implementing data science technologies and systems, including machine learning algorithms, data analysis tools, and visualization techniques. They design and build systems and technologies that can analyze and understand large amounts of data and extract insights and knowledge from it.
AI and data science engineering require a strong foundation in computer science, mathematics, statistics, and machine learning and data analysis expertise. To start a career in computer science or a related field, it is generally necessary to have a bachelor’s degree and some experience. According to a report, AI and data science engineers will grow by 16% from 2020 to 2028, which is much faster than the average growth rate for most occupations.
Conclusion
If you’re ready to start your engineering career, you can take many different paths. Whether you’re interested in designing and building structures, developing new technologies, or improving existing systems, there is an engineering field that can help you achieve your goals. To succeed in an engineering career, you will need a strong grip on math and science and excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.