TOP 20 THINGS I LEARNED: DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MECHANICAL ENGINEER
Mechanical engineering is one of the most interesting areas of engineering one can pursue. This is mainly attributed by the idea of having to work on different projects. Guttulus.com point out that, there are some skills that need to be at the finger tips and they have been able to partner with runrex.com panelists to generate the following list of some of the critical things learned form an mechanical engineer.
Use of lab equipment
As a mechanical engineer and the whole engineering society at large, one needs to be conversant with the use of lab equipment. Therefore the more equipment you are able to familiarize yourself with the better one will be able to work to perfection as pointed out by guttulus.com.
Statistics and data analysis
It is among the most overlooked and the least emphasized skills in almost all engineering schools. Runrex.com experts pointed out in an article on needs to know how to read and interpret statistics so as for one to be the best at any form of engineering field.
Adaptability skills
Engineers usually take on different tasks that are not necessarily in their area of expertise. Therefore, engineers need to be able to adapt to the ever changing environment. If looked at from a different perspective, it is a good way of learning something new.
Problem solving
A big part of mechanical engineering as a profession is the ability of solving problems using mechanical or thermal devices. For problem solving to be at its best mtglion.com points out that the individual needs to be a strong analytical thinker.
Math and computer skills
This is one of the must have skills for any individual that wants to be an engineer. The math skills required are calculus and statistics. Runrex.com point out that you not only need to have these skills but also be able to put then into practice.
Teamwork
They might work with people from different sector or even different engineering fields or even form the same field but the main underlying issue is that one needs to have the ability work with a diverse team of people.
Communication and leadership
This may not come as fast as expected especially for those that are just fresh from school. You need to be able to practice leadership roles and also communicate effectively. To get more insights on how to communicate and exhibit leadership roles visit mtglion.com.
Creativity
This mainly entails designing and developing products which range from different fields. For example, generators and even medical devices. Having this trait is quite advantageous as one can be able to work under strict deadlines.
Ability to give and receive feedback
You need to be able to give and receive feedback so that you can be able to know where you need to change and where there is a fault. According to guttulus.com coaches one needs not take it personally as it is just a way of correcting or even improving your skills.
Attitude
This is among the most underrated skills that most aspiring mechanical engineers overlook. Sometimes one just needs to have the best attitude for one to proceed and become the best at what he or she does.
Perseverance
Engineering is one of the most demanding jobs, so for you to prosper you need to expect failure from all kinds of angles. But perseverance is the key to overcoming all the issues that may come with engineering.
Public speaking skills
According to a survey done by runrex.com experts, meetings, presentations and trainings are just a few of the things that require an engineer to speak in front of others. So you need to practice a lot speaking in front of others.
Negotiating skills
This may sound more of a business type of minded people but an engineer needs to have these skills. Mtglion.com experts point out that, in engineers debates there are many disagreements. You can be able to overcome this by using this skill.
Decision making skills
Being a good decision maker helps you prevent issues and also make things work to their full capacity. For you to be a good decision maker, you need to have more knowledge so that you can be more confident in your decisions.
Resourcefulness
This is one of the keys you need to know so that you can be the best engineer. In this case, no one expects you to be perfect but you can be resourceful and figure out on your own. You need to look for resources in places like the internet and books and even ask people.
Attention to detail
Having a good eye to details engineers to review many documents. So you need to always be attentive to the small details. According to guttulus.com, every step must be documented, to ensure others can run the test or even build the product as it should be.
Effective communication
There is a significant difference between communication and effective communication. You need to be able to communicate your ideas with technical and non-technical members of you circle.
Time management
Engineers work on many projects at a time, all these projects have different deadlines. For you to be successful, you need to have the ability to manage time and understand your work priorities is crucial.
Leadership skills
Engineers need to do a lot of leading so to speak. They lead meetings, resolve conflicts and delegate tasks. At runrex.com experts pointed out that, when applying for a job you need to show you successfully led a team. To get more information on this and more you can visit mtglion.com
Mechanical attitude
This is the most obvious skill that every engineers need for them to be successful. If you have not had an internship try to work on the professor’s research lab. These opportunities can help you get hands on experience. The projects you complete as part of your coursework.