Understanding The Different Fields of Engineering

Posted on Apr 20 2020 - 10:52am by Editorial Staff

Considering a career in engineering? If you are a naturally curious person with the ability to be equally logical and creative, it could indeed be the right career path for you! However, while most engineers spend their days engineering new systems and concepts, the field is extremely expansive. Here is a general breakdown of the various branches and the specific problems that each one is dedicated to solving.

Civil Engineering

Looking at statistics, it becomes obvious that civil engineering is the most popular branch of engineering in many parts of the world. Generally, engineers working in the civil engineering field focus their skills and innovation on analyzing, designing, and maintaining the infrastructure systems of various communities. They basically spend their time building up and continually enhancing how a community operates, with a strong emphasis on systems and structures such as roads, bridges, airports, buildings, dams and the like.

One of the main reasons why civil engineering is a popular field is the fact that those working within this branch spend as much time outdoors on construction sites as they do getting their work done in an office setting.

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineers are those who specialize in the design, upgrading, and manufacture of machinery, equipment, thermal devices, and automotive parts. They usually work in an office, but may occasionally be called on-site to identify potential problems or to investigate equipment failures and make expert recommendations. In order to ensure maximum success, those working in mechanical engineering need to ensure they are constantly keeping abreast of various technical advances and innovations.

Electrical Engineering

Unsurprisingly, electrical engineers focus their attention on the design and development of electrical systems. Electrical engineers are also commonly referred to as ‘electronics engineers’. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, while electrical engineers tend to earn more than other engineers in different branches, the rate of employment opportunity growth is predicted to be significantly slower. In other words, you may struggle more to find a job as an electrical engineer than you would as a civil or mechanical engineer, for example.

Environmental Engineering

The demand for environmental engineering professionals has sky-rocketed over the last few decades. This is due to the fact that there is a significant focus on enhancing sustainability in all areas of the industry and daily life. Essentially, environmental engineers take a lead role in both identifying and solving common environmental problems across the globe. This often means buckling down on optimizing environmental processes, such as recycling and reducing various types of pollution.

Environmental engineers tend to work in several unique settings from day to day considering the nature of the work they do.

Chemical Engineering

Those operating within the realm of chemical engineering tend to be some of the highest earning engineers out there. This is why it is such a popular field. However, it also requires some of the keenest minds and hardest workers. Generally, chemical engineers focus their attention on improving and developing chemical manufacturing processes, often revolving around products such as fuel, pharmaceuticals, and food. They spend a large portion of their time working in offices and laboratories. However, their expertise may also be required at other locations, such as refineries and industrial plants.

Computer Hardware Engineering

Another well-paid branch, computer hardware engineers are those who specialize in developing and streamlining various computer systems. These systems often include networks, routers, and circuit boards, for example. A lot of time is spent researching and testing new systems in specialized research laboratories.

The main stand-out feature of the computer hardware engineering sector is the fact that it is both profitable and promises an impressive rate of growth in terms of global employment opportunities. Basically, this means that those who qualify as computer hardware engineers shouldn’t find it challenging to land a formidable, high-paying job regardless of where they are located in the world. This is due to the high demand for advanced computer systems and technology within all industries. Click here for information about online study in this area.

Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineering is a particularly specialized branch, and is filled with incredibly intelligent and dedicated individuals who focus their energy on designing and improving aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. They are paid extremely well and are often employed by the federal government to work on projects dedicated to optimizing national defense. However, some aerospace engineers also work in research and development, as well as manufacturing. The engineering discipline upon which you decide to embark will depend heavily on your personal interests and ambitions. Be sure to conduct plenty of research before making a final decision.

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Editorial Staff at I2Mag is a team of subject experts.