How to become a mechanical engineer

Is becoming a mechanical engineer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do mechanical engineers do?
Career Satisfaction
Are mechanical engineers happy with their careers?
Personality
What are mechanical engineers like?

Still unsure if becoming a mechanical engineer is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a mechanical engineer or another similar career!

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How to become a Mechanical Engineer

To become a mechanical engineer, you need to follow a series of educational and professional steps. Here is a step-by-step guide:

  • Education: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field from an accredited college or university. Mechanical engineering programs typically include coursework in mathematics, physics, thermodynamics, materials science, and design principles.
  • Internships and Co-op Programs: During your undergraduate studies, consider participating in internships or co-op programs to gain practical experience and build professional connections.
  • Obtain Experience: After completing your degree, gain practical experience in the field through entry-level engineering positions or graduate research opportunities.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) Licensure: Although not always required for entry-level positions, obtaining a Professional Engineer license can enhance your career prospects. To become a licensed PE, you typically need to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam after completing your degree, gain relevant work experience, and then pass the Professional Engineering (PE) exam.
  • Continuing Education: Consider pursuing advanced degrees, such as a Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, to specialize in a specific area or pursue research opportunities.
  • Specialization and Certification: Consider obtaining certifications in specialized areas of mechanical engineering to demonstrate expertise in specific fields, such as HVAC, robotics, or aerospace.
  • Networking and Professional Associations: Join engineering societies and associations like the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) to network with professionals, stay updated on industry trends, and access professional development resources.
  • Continued Learning: Mechanical engineering is a rapidly evolving field, so continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and advancements are essential for career growth.
  • Job Search and Application: Start applying for entry-level mechanical engineering positions that align with your interests and skills. Tailor your resume and cover letter to showcase your relevant experiences and accomplishments.

Certifications
Mechanical engineers can pursue various certifications to demonstrate their expertise in specialized areas or to enhance their professional qualifications. Some of the notable certifications for mechanical engineers include:

  • Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE): Offered by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), this certification validates the skills and knowledge of mechanical engineers in the field of manufacturing, including process planning, material selection, and quality control.
  • Certified Energy Manager (CEM): The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) provides this certification for engineers involved in energy management and conservation, including mechanical engineers working in the energy sector.
  • LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification: Offered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED certification demonstrates expertise in designing sustainable and energy-efficient buildings.
  • Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE): Administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), this certification validates the ability of mechanical engineers to analyze and improve the reliability of systems and products.
  • Certified Maintenance & Reliability Professional (CMRP): Offered by the Society for Maintenance & Reliability Professionals (SMRP), this certification focuses on maintenance and reliability engineering practices.
  • Project Management Professional (PMP): Although not specific to mechanical engineering, the Project Management Institute (PMI) offers the PMP certification, which can be valuable for mechanical engineers involved in project management roles.
  • Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) or Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP): These certifications, offered by Dassault Systèmes, validate proficiency in using SolidWorks software for 3D modeling and design.
  • Certified Fluid Power Engineer (CFPE): Offered by the International Fluid Power Society (IFPS), this certification demonstrates expertise in fluid power systems, which are prevalent in various mechanical applications.
  • Certified HVAC Designer (CHD): Administered by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), this certification focuses on expertise in HVAC system design.
  • Certified Safety Professional (CSP): The Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) provides this certification for professionals involved in safety engineering and risk assessment, which is essential for mechanical engineers working in industrial environments.