Mechanical engineering is a versatile field that applies engineering principles and problem-solving techniques to design, manufacturing, and bringing products to market. Mechanical engineers tackle challenges to improve lives and make systems more efficient, from creating cutting-edge machines to optimizing everyday tools.
While most people associate mechanical engineering with automotive engineering, this discipline is among the broadest in engineering. It involves anything that moves—components, machines, and even the human body. The work of mechanical engineers is pivotal in shaping technology, infrastructure, and innovation in our modern world.
Let’s explore seven exciting career paths you can pursue with a mechanical engineering degree and highlight the necessary skills and coursework to prepare for these professions during your undergraduate years.
- Automotive Engineer: Automotive engineers, also referred to as “automobile engineers”, work with other engineers to enhance the technical performance, aesthetics and software of vehicles. Common responsibilities of an automotive engineer include designing and testing various components of vehicles, including fuel technologies and safety systems.
The basic software skills and undergraduate courses needed to prepare you for this field are:
Software skills: Computer aided design software (Solidworks, CATIA, AutoCAD), programing languages (C, C++, MATLAB), Simulation (ANSYS)
Courses: Engineering Design, Applied Thermodynamics, Fluid Dynamics, Machine Drawing, Applied computer programming, Strength of materials, Mechanics of machines, Computer aided design/manufacturing, fracture machines and failure analysis. - Aeronautical Engineer: perform and supervise the design, development, manufacture and maintenance work of all types of flight vehicles.
The basic software skills and undergraduate courses needed to prepare you for this field are:
Software skills: Computer aided design software (Solidworks, CATIA, AutoCAD), programing languages (MATLAB & Python), Computational Fluid dynamics (ANSYS)
Courses: Engineering Design, Applied Thermodynamics, Fluid Dynamics, Machine Drawing, Applied computer programming, Strength of materials, Computer aided design/manufacturing, fracture machines and failure analysis. - Engineering Project Manager: Mechanical engineer working as an engineering project manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of engineering projects, utilizing their technical knowledge to manage a team, ensure project goals are met within budget and timelines, while coordinating with various stakeholders to deliver a successful project, including managing risks, quality control, and communication across the team.
The basic software skills and undergraduate courses needed to prepare you for this field are:
Software skills: Computer aided design software (Solidworks, CATIA, AutoCAD), project management software (Microsoft Project).
Courses: Engineering Economics, Engineering Statistics, Engineering Management, Engineering Design, Machine Drawing, Strength of materials, Computer aided design/manufacturing, fracture machines and failure analysis. - Mechanical Design Engineer: A mechanical engineer develops the initial design concepts for machines, components, or products and oversees the entire construction and manufacturing process. In contrast, a mechanical design engineer produces precise technical drawings and plans based on the specifications outlined by the mechanical engineer.
The basic software skills and undergraduate courses needed to prepare you for this field are:
Software skills: Computer aided design software (Solidworks, CATIA, AutoCAD, Inventor and CREO), programing languages (MATLAB & Python), Computational Fluid dynamics (ANSYS)
Courses: Engineering Design, Fluid Dynamics, Machine Drawing, Strength of materials, Mechanics of machines, Computer aided design/manufacturing, fracture machines and failure analysis, systems analysis. - Manufacturing System Engineer: Manufacturing systems engineers are responsible for designing, planning, developing, and implementing systems such as manufacturing equipment and assembly lines, encompassing all facets of the manufacturing process.
The basic software skills and undergraduate courses needed to prepare you for this field are:
Software skills: Manufacturing and Production Software (Siemens NX, Mastercam), Computer aided design software (Solidworks, CATIA, AutoCAD, Inventor and CREO), project management software (Microsoft Project).
Courses: Engineering Economics, Engineering Management, Engineering Design, Machine Drawing, Strength of materials, fracture machines and failure analysis. - Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Engineer: An AI Robotics Engineer specializes in designing, developing, and maintaining advanced robotic systems that incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) to learn from their surroundings and adjust their behavior accordingly. These professionals work with various robotic technologies, such as autonomous vehicles, drones, and industrial robots, aiming to enhance their efficiency, functionality, and safety. Kickstart your career with our free machine learning course by clicking on this LINK
Software skills: Computer aided design software (Solidworks, CATIA, AutoCAD), programing languages (Python, C++, MATLAB, Java), Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Tools (TensorFlow, Pytorch, Scikit-learn), Control Systems and Data Analysis Tools (LabVIEW and NumPy)
Courses: Engineering Design, Machine Drawing, Applied computer programming, Mechanics of machines, Computer aided design/manufacturing. - Biomedical Engineer: A biomedical engineer utilizes engineering principles and methods to address challenges in healthcare and medicine. By integrating their expertise in biology, medicine, and engineering, they create and develop medical devices, equipment, and systems aimed at enhancing patient care, diagnosis, and treatment.
The basic software skills and undergraduate courses needed to prepare you for this field are:
Software skills: Simulation and Analysis software (MATLAB and ImageJ/Fiji), Computer aided design software (Solidworks, CATIA, AutoCAD, Inventor), Embedded Systems and Prototyping (Arduino IDE and PLC programming)
Courses: Engineering Material, Fluid dynamics, Engineering Design, Machine Drawing, Control Engineering, Engineering statistics, Fracture Mechanics & Failure Analysis, Thermodynamics.
Mechanical engineering offers a gateway to diverse and impactful career opportunities, playing a vital role in driving technological innovation and improving lives globally. The demand for skilled engineers is growing, not just in Nigeria but worldwide, as industries seek professionals to address challenges in transportation, power, water, telecommunications, and healthcare systems for a rapidly expanding population.
Choosing a career path is just the beginning. The key to success lies in preparing for it by focusing on the right courses, honing essential software skills, and building employability while still in university. This proactive approach lays a strong foundation for a fulfilling and dynamic career.
Mechanical engineers have the potential to thrive in various industries, including Tranos, the oil and gas sector, Boboye Engineering, Dangote Industries Limited, Proforce Limited, Sinoma Nigeria Company, and airlines, among others. Whether your interests align with automotive innovation, mechanical design, or manufacturing systems engineering, a degree in mechanical engineering equips you with the tools to lead advancements in technology and innovation.
For those eager to start or advance their careers, exciting opportunities await.
Explore open roles at Tranos by visiting this link: Tranos Job Opportunities
Prepare, excel, and shape the future—your journey as a mechanical engineer begins now!
