Mechanical Engineering: Industry Options, Outlook and Required Skills

As a Mechanical Engineer, you can find employment in virtually any field, including non-engineering focused industries such as finance, sales, education, law, government, management, medicine and research.  Industry sectors that may be more focused as options would include the following:

  • Defense
  • Robotics
  • Aerospace
  • Automotive
  • Metals and Materials
  • Construction
  • Chemical
  • Technology
  • Design
  • Electronics
  • Environment and Sustainability
  • Information technology
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Research and development

Job Outlook:

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the career trajectory for mechanical engineers is estimated to grow seven percent during the period 2020 to 2030. The versatility of a mechanical engineering degree places an importance on, and is determined on experiential learning and expanding of technical and soft skills within the undergraduate academic career. The general outlook for mechanical engineering graduates is a field that offers growth opportunities aligned with the growth in AI and innovation.

Mechanical Engineering – Useful Skills

Employers are looking for engineers who posses both hard (technical) and soft skills (transferable). Here are some overarching useful skills to consider developing, and important for building an effective resume:

  1. Teamwork
  2. Critical and Analytical Thinking
  3. Detail oriented
  4. Technical skills and applications
  5. Computer Skills and Coding
  6. Creativity and Innovative Skills
  7. Interpersonal Skills
  8. Mathematics
  9. Mechanical Skills
  10. Problem-solving skills
  11. Project management
  12. Troubleshooting

Developing technical skills and a deeper insight into the field along with the ability to work effectively in a team environment provides the foundation to enjoying a successful career journey as a mechanical engineer.

By Ingrid Beute
Ingrid Beute Career Consultant, Engineering & Science & Career Champions Program Coordinator