Why You SHOULD NOT Study Mechanical Engineering

Summary

This video helps viewers decide if mechanical engineering is the right career for them by asking key questions about personal interests, strengths, and values. It covers the importance of math and physics, creativity, hands-on work, problem-solving, career goals, and teamwork in the field. The video emphasizes that while mechanical engineering offers growth and innovation, it’s not for everyone—especially those who dislike technical challenges or prefer solitary work. Ideal for high schoolers, university students, or professionals considering the field, the video provides valuable insights to guide career decisions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mainstream media often misrepresents mechanical engineering as glamorous, focusing on high-tech gadgets, which is misleading and overlooks the real challenges and problem-solving involved.
• 😀 Mechanical engineering requires a strong foundation in math and physics. If you dislike or struggle with these subjects, the field may not be the right fit for you.
• 😀 Creativity is an essential skill for mechanical engineers. It's needed for design, troubleshooting, and finding innovative solutions to problems during the product development process.
• 😀 Hands-on work is a major aspect of mechanical engineering. If you're not interested in working with prototypes, machines, and testing equipment, you may want to reconsider this field.
• 😀 Problem-solving is at the heart of mechanical engineering. Engineers regularly encounter complex, multifaceted problems that require both technical and creative thinking.
• 😀 A career in mechanical engineering may not lead to six-figure salaries right away. Most engineers can expect to earn between $70k and $90k starting out, with higher salaries after gaining experience.
• 😀 Mechanical engineering offers long-term career growth opportunities. The job market is expected to grow at a rate of 10% between 2022 and 2032, much higher than the average for all occupations.
• 😀 Engineering jobs often require working in teams, collaborating with professionals from various fields. If you prefer independent work with minimal social interaction, this may not be the ideal career for you.
• 😀 You need to be comfortable with ambiguity and constraints in real-world engineering problems, as these often involve a combination of technical, economic, social, and environmental factors.
• 😀 If you're looking to enter the workforce quickly or make a lot of money right out of college, mechanical engineering may not be the best choice. A degree is essential, and the field typically requires more time and experience to climb the salary ladder.

Q & A

Is mechanical engineering suitable for everyone?

No, mechanical engineering is not for everyone. While mainstream media often glamorizes it, the field involves intricate problem-solving, challenges, and complex calculations that may not appeal to everyone.

What is the first question to ask yourself when considering mechanical engineering?

The first question to ask is whether you like math and physics. These subjects are fundamental to mechanical engineering, and if you're not willing to engage with them, this field may not be the right fit.

How important is creativity in mechanical engineering?

Creativity is very important in mechanical engineering. Engineers need to generate innovative designs, solve unexpected problems, and think outside the box. Creativity is essential for product development and overcoming design challenges.

Does mechanical engineering require hands-on work?

Yes, mechanical engineers often work hands-on in labs, machine shops, or manufacturing plants. This may include building and testing prototypes, working with machinery, and solving real-world problems on-site.

What if I dislike hands-on work—should I still pursue mechanical engineering?

If you dislike hands-on work, mechanical engineering might not be a good fit for you. Many roles in this field involve direct engagement with physical products and machinery, which is crucial for real-world engineering challenges.

How much math and physics is involved in mechanical engineering?

Mechanical engineering involves a significant amount of math and physics. You'll need to study subjects like calculus, differential equations, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer, as they form the foundation of the engineering principles you'll apply.

What are some examples of problems that mechanical engineers solve?

Mechanical engineers solve a variety of problems related to product design, manufacturing, project management, and even budgeting. These problems often involve multiple factors, including technical, economic, and environmental considerations.

What is the salary range for mechanical engineers right out of college?

Starting salaries for mechanical engineers typically range between $70,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on location and company. It's uncommon to make six figures right out of college without significant industry experience.

Is there room for growth in mechanical engineering careers?

Yes, mechanical engineering offers substantial growth opportunities. With experience, you can move into higher-paying roles, transition into managerial positions, or specialize in more advanced technical areas. The field is expected to grow by 10% from 2022 to 2032.

Do mechanical engineers work independently or in teams?

Mechanical engineers typically work in teams, collaborating with other engineers, product managers, technicians, and executives. While engineers may work on individual tasks, the job requires strong teamwork and communication skills to bring projects to completion.