If you were more interested in the mechanisms of a toy car as a kid and often took it apart just to see how the wheels work then you are natural. People who like investigating the innards of toys more than playing with them generally grow up unscrewing their computers, TVs, music systems and might even make some workable models of electronics all by themselves. And these are the making of a mechanical engineer. For those of us who love using the machines to make our life easier, it is time we salute these unsung heroes of day-to-day life. From air conditioners to iron boxes; from microwave ovens to computers; the contribution of mechanical engineers to our life is truly endless. These people are involved with repairing, building, inventing and designing cool gadgets, machines and simple solutions for the daily life. Read on for a step by step guide to becoming a mechanical engineer!
Becoming A Mechanical Engineer
Requirements
Eligibility
After completing 10+2 in non-medical science background, one must pursue a 4-year Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Some colleges have specific entrance tests while others accept admissions based on your school performance. The first two years of the Bachelor’s course cover science, maths, basic engineering and social sciences while the last two years focus on hardcore mechanical engineering. The subjects studied under this degree are Physics, Dynamics, Thermal Fluids, Robotics and Energy Conservation etc.
Courses Required
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A graduate diploma in engineering from a Polytechnic College can also help you become a mechanical engineer.
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Master’s in Mechanical Engineering and other advanced courses make an individual’s career path stronger and more defined.
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Mechanical engineers can also take up post graduate management programmes in technical fields so as to bypass the struggle of initial years as junior engineers and start straight away as team leaders or senior engineers.
Skills Required
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Ability to systematically, analytically and creatively solve complex problems
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Documentation and technical writing skills
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The ability of tinkering and inventing new gadgets
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Patience and hard work
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Practical and logical problem solving approach.
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Detail-orientation and systematic approach
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Physical fitness and dedication to endure long work hours
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Good communication, team skills and interpersonal skills
Roles And Responsibilities
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Mechanical engineers use the principles of energy, materials and mechanics to design and manufacture machines and devices of all types.
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Mechanical engineers also research, design, develop, manufacture and test tools, engines, machines and other mechanical devices. They invent a better and easier alternative and keep upgrading the existing machineries as well.
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It is one of the broadest engineering disciplines and involves work on power-producing machines such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines along withelevators and escalators, industrial production equipment, robots used in manufacturing and aerospace parts. They even work on medical issues such as the mechanics of bones and joints or the fluid dynamics of the circulatory system.
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These engineers have to deal with concepts such as mechanics, thermodynamics, robotics, kinematics, structural analysis, fluid mechanics and many others.They use these concepts to focus their attention towards new areas of research such as nanotechnology, development of composite materials, biomedical applications, environmental conservation, etc.
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There is also great requirement for mechanical engineer consultants who have management skills along with technical proficiency. The primary role of such professionals is to manage both technology and people; firms that provide engineering consultancy require them.
Career Prospects
The job prospects of a skilled mechanical engineer are never-ending and certainly lucrative. These professionals can find employment both in the government and private sector undertakings. Major industries like automobiles, space research, aeronautical, energy and utilities, air conditioning, bio-mechanical industry, etc provide tremendous scope for mechanical engineers. Other major employers include giant manufacturing plants, turbine manufacturing plants, oil and gas exploration and refining industries and the agricultural sector. In the government sector, mechanical engineers can provide their knowledge to various government run projects in the role of technical experts and consultants. They can also work in private engineering companies that provide technical consulting to both government and corporate firms.
