In order to be a truly successful mechanical engineer, you'll need to have more than just math and science skills. No matter if you're a recent engineering graduate, or have experience working as a mechanical engineering manager for years, there are some staple tips and strategies that can help you boost your career. Let's take a look at some of these tip and strategies:
1. Think like a businessman.
Although this sounds a little counter-intuitive, the reality is that engineering firms are looking for individuals who have a wide range of skills - including business skills. They want you to be able to think like a businessperson. Companies are looking for engineers that are involved in planning, strategy, and who understand how to work with documents such as balance sheets and income statements. Beginner-level engineers must educate themselves on the total costs to produce your company's product - and how that can affect decisions.
2. Think outside of your discipline.
Today's complex products tend to incorporate software and electrical components, so there will be times when you'll face design issues that are outside of your technical discipline or expertise. To combat this, allow yourself to be familiar and educated on basic topics of relevant specialties.
3. Be a team player.
Engineering involves collaboration across various teams throughout your organization. All disciplines must come together in order to resolve complex issues and generate efficient solutions. As a result of this, communication and working side-by-side with your team members is a big factor of successful engineering.
4. Always follow the rules where needed.
Although some reward may come to those who think freely and bend the rules, it is still crucial to stay true to your employer's values and codes of conduct.
5. Be a part of the innovation pipeline.
In engineering, innovation is essential. Always remain open and accepting of new ideas. Stay free of bias. Companies will reward you if you encourage innovative ideas, or at minimum respect your creative mindset.
6. Make your boss look good.
Engineers are often intimidated by managers or higher-ups - especially those who have the authority to fire, hire, and promote employees. However, a good manager always wants their employees on their side. Work, communicate, and collaborate with your manager whenever you can. Be on your manager's side and serve as a resource where necessary.
7. Stay connected to your university.
Stay in touch with your alma matter. This can boost your experience, lead to networking opportunities, teach you new skills, and present new possibilities. It can also enhance your company's reputation simultaneously.
8. Always keep learning.
This is one of the most crucial tips on the list. Tools, technologies, and software used throughout the industry are constantly evolving and advancing. Due to this, it's important to stay ahead of the curve and seek out new opportunities to consistently remain on-top of your skills.
9. Be involved.
It's essential for engineers to constantly be building relationships and networking - especially when training, attending professional events, dealing with other companies, and other similar workplace activities.
10. Find a mentor.
If you're a younger engineer, or a beginner, look for someone who is more experienced or established who may be interested in helping show you the ropes. Some companies also offer mentoring programs through their HR department, so check with your organization for these types of opportunities. If not, post something on LinkedIn looking for a mentor. Send out an email to some potential mentors asking for their guidance. Look to family, friends, or professors who may also have experience in a related industry.
11. Amp up your communication skills.
Many engineers tend to stick to technical aspects of the discipline. Others want to branch off into management roles. However, it's imperative for you to be comfortable doing it all. Completing technical projects, but also talking to customers, giving presentations, working with suppliers, communicating with agencies, and more. Building these soft skills can help you advance in the engineering discipline, especially because many engineers tend to stick to the technical aspects of engineering, rather than the social aspects.