For those starting their journey or still finding their way
By: Allyson Tarifa
Introduction
When I first decided to major in Mechanical Engineering, it felt like stepping off an abyss. No one else in my family had a degree in engineering, I had attended a regular high school where I was never directly taught about what engineers did, I had not grown up around mechanics or hobbyists, and on top of that I did not find calculus intuitive (this changed after taking calculus in college).
Despite these barriers, all I knew going in was that: I had a profound love and appreciation for physics and science, I had heard that there are always engineering positions in the job market, and I had read that the versatility of mechanical engineering provides a wide breadth of opportunities after school.
Upon beginning my college career, I was admittedly overwhelmed by the vastness of the mechanical engineering field. I did not have a map or a class instructing me on how to make the best of my time in college; what classes to take, what clubs to join, what undergraduate research was, or what types of mechanical engineering jobs existed.
However, now that I’m on the other side of my engineering degree, there are certainly resources and information that would have been useful as a freshman mechanical engineering student. One useful resource would have been a map outlining all the fields within mechanical engineering, the different types of classes, the jobs associated with these fields, tips on gaining relevant experience in college to enter these fields, and how to get involved in research and development. Thanks to the Research Girl platform, disseminating this information is possible.
The following resource pages provide a launching point for aspiring or current mechanical engineers interested in research or industry and a fountain of information and clarity about the wonderful, exciting, and awe-inspiring world of mechanical engineering. Just like there was hope for me, there is hope for you too.
Sections within this Page
Introduction
Core Classes Taught in Mechanical Engineering - Across Multiple School Curriculums
Mechanical Engineering Specilizations
Mechanical Engineering Industries & the Job Market
Entering Mechanical Engineering Research and Development
Core Classes Taught in Mechanical Engineering - Across Multiple School Curriculums
The different definitions of Mechanical Engineering illuminate the range of roles and functions a Mechanical Engineer can potentially serve. Mechanical Engineering can be further distinguished by its core classes or inherent competencies, the main industries where Mechanical Engineers are found, and predominant Mechanical Engineering positions.
Definitions of Mechanical Engineering
Definition: the branch of engineering dealing with the design, construction, and use of machines.
Source: Oxford Dictionary
Definition: the branch of engineering concerned with the design, manufacture, installation, and operation of engines and machines and with manufacturing processes. It is particularly concerned with forces and motion.
Source: Britannica
Definition: The role of a mechanical engineer is to take a product from an idea to the marketplace. To accomplish this, the mechanical engineer must be able to determine the forces and thermal environment that a product, its parts, or its subsystems will encounter; design them for functionality, aesthetics, and durability; and determine the best manufacturing approach that will ensure operation without failure.
Source: Colombia University
This section will further define Mechanical Engineering by introducing the core Mechanical Engineering classes found within most university’s programs of study. The following core classes teach the foundational and distinct disciplines that form Mechanical Engineering students and lead to different concentrations within the field.
Mathematics
The role of mathematics in engineering is a critical one. Mathematics is, in essence, the language engineers use to describe and predict the physical phenomena and structures that they design and work with. From calculating the flow of liquid from the entrance and exit of a pipe, the transfer of heat across a multilayered spherical container, or the critical stress a structure can withstand before induced failure, a solid foundation in different mathematical concepts is crucial. Engineering mathematics requires an understanding of high-level calculus and algebra. The following courses are mathematics classes included in most engineering curriculums.
Associated Classes
Integral Calculus ● Differential Calculus ● Multivariate Calculus ● Linear Algebra ● Differential Equations ● Statistics and Probability for Engineers
Mechanical Sciences
The mechanical sciences focus on the performance of physical structures, specifically how matter transforms when subjected to incoming static and dynamic forces. Additionally, the mechanics of materials is an integral aspect of understanding how the internal structure of matter impacts overall structural performance. Important performance parameters include stress, strain, deformation, failure, and strain energy, which are used to design engineering structures that fulfill functional, safety, and cost requirements. This discipline is implemented in the design of (truly) any engineered structure, ranging from bridges, mirrors, buildings, cars, and rockets. The following courses are taught in engineering curriculums to build a fundamental understanding of the principles and applications of mechanics.
Associated Classes
Physics ● Static Analysis ● Dynamic Analysis ● Mechanics of Materials ● Structure and Property of Materials
Fluid, Thermal, & Energy Systems
The study of fluid, thermal, and energy systems focuses on analyzing how matter and energy interact, change, and move within a defined open or closed system. Within this area of study, engineers are concerned with determining and calculating the thermal energy of systems and fluid motion—which informs a diverse multitude of applications. Different types of applications can vary heavily from predicting atmospheric temperature, pressure, and fluid velocity, to calculating the power production and requirements of classic thermodynamic cycles like steam and refrigeration, to mapping the temperature profiles of structures like Mars Rovers and high-rise buildings. Where there is matter, fluid, thermal, and energy analysis can be applied.
Associated Classes
Chemistry ● Thermodynamics ● Fluid Mechanics ● Heat Transfer
Design Engineering & Manufacturing
Design engineering and manufacturing are areas of study that focus on the design and manufacturing of engineered components and systems via “the engineering design process.” This process involves all the steps in developing an idea from a design to a finished product. This discipline takes knowledge of all engineering aspects such as mechanical, fluid, thermal, and energy systems, and combines it with design techniques (such as computational modeling), system kinematics (relative motion within a system), and the use of common standard parts, tools, and machining processes. The engineering product cycle starts with the design process, so classes taught on the subject will ideally give plenty of opportunity for engaging in engineering projects of your own while teaching you existing designs, methods, and resources.
Associated Classes
Machine Design ● Mechanical System Design ● Kinematics of Machinery ● Engineering Processes ● Computational Engineering Design and Analysis
Integrated Engineering Systems and Controls
To successfully combine engineered components in a system to achieve an output based on given inputs and constraints, the integration of other disciplines beyond mechanical is almost always required. A basic understanding of how other engineered components like electrical, optical, and software programs operate and couple with mechanical components is necessary for full system integration. Additionally, in systems engineering, engineers must understand how to identify system inputs and outputs, relate coupled components within a system, identify common processes and procedures, and measure system performance. In summary, classes related to system engineering teach and emphasize methods of combining technical knowledge with strategic planning to design a cohesive system that meets desired functionality.
Associated Classes
Electrical Engineering Principles ● System Dynamics ● Measurement and Control Systems ● *Optical Engineering
*Not taught as a class in every curriculum, sometimes integrated with physics or included as an elective.
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Mechanical Engineering Specializations
The main engineering branches are typically categorized as mechanical, civil, electrical, chemical, and industrial. Some lists toggle whether or not to include Industrial Engineering as a branch or to include it under Mechanical Engineering. Due to the many specilizations under the Mechanical Engineering branch, Industrial Engineering will be considered separately.
Furthermore, as subsections of engineering fields have evolved and expanded over the past centuries, some have formed their respective engineering degrees and branches (such as aerospace and computer engineering). However, the emerging degrees and specilizations can still be connected to the five core engineering branches.
Mechanical Engineers have the training and versatility to thrive virtually anywhere where analysis and reasoning are required skills. This means mechanical engineers can extend themselves to jobs in software, business, and even law if they desire and are willing to put in the additional work it takes to cross over into these disciplines. The following list covers engineering specialties and job routes that directly correlate to Mechanical Engineering’s core competencies and the other engineering branches. If you are curious about any of the following specilizations, I encourage you to explore the linked articles below and other articles that provide more in-depth descriptions.
The Family Tree of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering - Civil Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Industrial Engineering
M.E.
Aerospace Engineering ● Acoustic Engineering ● Architectural Engineering ● Automotive Engineering ● Automation and Controls Engineering ● Biomechanical Engineering ● Ocean Engineering ● Optical Engineering ● Marine Engineering ● Robotic Engineering ● Materials Engineering Also Chem.E. ● Fluid and Thermal Engineering ● Design Engineering ● Nanotechnology Engineering ● Combustion Engineering Also Chem.E. ● Nuclear Engineering Also Chem.E.● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Civil. E.
Structural Engineering Also Mech.E. ● Transportation Engineering Also Mech.E. ● Environmental Engineering Also Mech.E.● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
E.E.
Microelectronics Engineering ● Information Technology (IT) Engineering ● Network Engineering ● Telecommunications Engineering ● Computer Engineering Also Mech.E.● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Chem. E.
Pharmaceutical Engineering ● Process Engineering ● Petroleum Engineering ● Production Engineering ● Biochemical Engineering● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
I.E.
Systems Engineering Also Mech.E. ● Manufacturing Engineering Also Mech.E. ● Supply Chain Engineering Also Mech.E. ● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
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Mechanical Engineering Industries & the Job Market
The roles available for Mechanical Engineers are constantly evolving and changing based on technological advances and current industrial trends. The continual progression of mechanical engineering specializations is reflected in certain specializations' evolution into their respective industries. Generally speaking, many engineering specializations can be found across multiple engineering industries. The following list illustrates the different engineering industries and the degrees that can prepare you the best to enter the specific industrial sectors.
An Overview of Engineering Industries
Aerospace and Defense
Mechanical Engineering ● Civil Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Aerospace Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Automation and Controls Engineering ● Biomechanical Engineering ● Ocean Engineering ● Optical Engineering ● Robotic Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Fluid and Thermal Engineering ● Design Engineering ● Nanotechnology Engineering ● Combustion Engineering ● Nuclear Engineering ● Structural Engineering ● Microelectronics Engineering ● Biochemical Engineering ● Systems Engineering ● Manufacturing Engineering ● Supply Chain Engineering● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Agriculture and Food
Mechanical Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Biochemical Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Environmental Engineering ● Manufacturing Engineering ● Ocean Engineering● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Automotive Industry
Mechanical Engineering ● Civil Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Aerospace Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Automation and Controls Engineering ● Optical Engineering ● Robotic Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Environmental Engineering ● Fluid and Thermal Engineering ● Design Engineering ● Nanotechnology Engineering ● Microelectronics Engineering ● Systems Engineering ● Manufacturing Engineering ● Supply Chain Engineering● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Computing and Digital Technologies
Mechanical Engineering ● Civil Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Aerospace Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Automation and Controls Engineering ● Optical Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Fluid and Thermal Engineering ● Environmental Engineering ● Design Engineering ● Nanotechnology Engineering ● Microelectronics Engineering ● Systems Engineering ● Manufacturing Engineering ● Supply Chain Engineering ● Petroleum Engineering● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Cybersecurity
Mechanical Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Systems Engineering ● Supply Chain Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Electronics
Mechanical Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Automation and Controls Engineering ● Ocean Engineering ● Optical Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Design Engineering ● Nanotechnology Engineering ●Microelectronics Engineering ● Systems Engineering ● Manufacturing Engineering ● Supply Chain Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Energy Sector
Mechanical Engineering ● Civil Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Architectural Engineering ● Agricultural Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Environmental Engineering ● Manufacturing Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Nuclear Engineering ● Ocean Engineering ● Petroleum Engineering● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Environmental
Mechanical Engineering ● Civil Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Architectural Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Environmental Engineering ● Manufacturing Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Ocean Engineering ● Petroleum Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Finance and Business Management Mechanical Engineering ● Civil Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Environmental Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Petroleum Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Health Care
Mechanical Engineering ● Civil Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Biomechanical Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Nuclear Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Infrastructure
Mechanical Engineering ● Civil Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Aerospace Engineering ● Architectural Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Environmental Engineering ● Manufacturing Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Ocean Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Materials and Manufacturing
Mechanical Engineering ● Civil Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Aerospace Engineering ● Biomechanical Engineering ● Agricultural Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Environmental Engineering ● Manufacturing Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Nuclear Engineering ● Ocean Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
Transportation
Mechanical Engineering ● Civil Engineering ● Electrical Engineering ● Industrial Engineering ● Chemical Engineering ● Aerospace Engineering ● Biomechanical Engineering ● Computer Engineering ● Manufacturing Engineering ● Materials Engineering ● Ocean Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering ● Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology
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Entering Mechanical Engineering Research and Development
Mechanical Engineering Research and Development work is widespread and can be found in any industrial sector where mechanical engineering is involved. This section will introduce the exciting and growing research areas in institutions across the United States that reflect the trajectory of and the different roles that arise in Mechanical Engineering Research and Development.
Generative Artificial Intelligence - This a rapidly growing field in mechanical engineering that implements artificial intelligence technology to optimize mechanical engineering designs and systems. Media buzz on AI aside, it is truly a revolutionary tool being applied to every aspect of the engineering process from computational design and analysis to automated manufacturing, to cognitive robotics, to energy-efficient engineering systems, the opportunities are endless.
Additive Manufacturing - Research into additive manufacturing has also grown in recent years, particularly in areas like aerospace and biomechanics where complex specialized parts are used often and needed urgently. The benefits of using additive manufacturing include building complex geometries without multiple machining processes, increased durability due to continuous parts, faster product development, and reduced waste in the fabrication process. Research into this field can vary from characterizing the materials used in additive manufacturing, to analyzing different deposition techniques, to the development of faster, more efficient, and more effective additive technology.
Renewable Energy - The development and refinement of renewable energy sources will continue to rise in the coming years due to the urgency of climate change and the energy crisis. Renewable energy sources range from biomass to hydroelectric, wind, solar, geothermal, and nuclear power systems. Each respective energy source has obstacles such as material selection for system design, increasing power efficiency, and integrating these methods into an electrical grid. The next generation of researchers and engineers will be tasked with creating solutions for these pertinent and pressing problems.
Biomechanical Engineering - While Biomechanical Engineering has become a newly standalone field, it has a basis in mechanical engineering, and many of its research topics are within the scope of mechanical engineering research. Areas of investigation include creating increasingly sophisticated and life-like prosthetics, designing artificial internal organs, studying the mechanics of organic materials, and studying the effects of force on different parts of the body. This field will continue to grow as personalized health care rises and medicine advances.
How to Get Involved in Mechanical Engineering Research
For those interested in entering Mechanical Engineering Research and Development, the best place to start is your university. At universities with STEM programs, there are multiple research & development groups that you can join as a student. Joining as an undergraduate is a great opportunity to apply the knowledge you acquire in your classes, explore different engineering fields, and grow your technical and professional skills.
Roles within Mechanical Engineering Research
Your interests and talents are the best way of identifying which specialized field of research you’ll be best suited for. Below are some questions you can ask yourself that may help identify the best research fit for you.
Finding a Specialization
What core disciplines in Mechanical Engineering interest you the most? Applying mathematics to analyze and predict the behavior and properties of engineering systems? Modeling how energy flows and changes within a fluid or thermal system? Building and optimizing the performance of mechanical systems? Finding the field that sounds most interesting to you will help you decide what engineering area you’d like to learn more about.
Identifying your Aptitudes
The spectrum of mechanical engineering research roles ranges from theoretical-based analysis and prediction to the designing, building, and testing of hands-on engineering projects. If you like to get your hands dirty, find a research team that works in a maker space or machine shop. If you like dealing with patterns, learning about engineering phenomena, analyzing systems, and working with equations, join a team that deals in theory. If you enjoy a hybrid of lab and theory work, many engineering research teams offer both. You know yourself best, so select an area that will best fit you.
Mechanical Engineering Clubs & Special Interest Groups
An alternative route to entering the research field while gaining excellent experience applying mechanical engineering’s core disciplines is in a club setting. The name and scope of engineering clubs may vary across schools but all engineering universities generally offer clubs for Automotive Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and Robotics and other interest groups. These clubs present great opportunities to gain experience working on real-life engineering problems in a team setting. The projects you work on, the people you meet at showcases, and the skills you gain are other methods of finding opportunities for entering the field of research and development.
With all this in mind, here is some advice on how to find, reach out, and join a research group.
Identify what specializations and engineering industries interest you the most.
On your university’s website, look into the different research groups your university offers on your identified interests.
Reach out to multiple research groups expressing your interest in joining their team. I also encourage you to send your transcript and resume along with your email.
Once you’ve been contacted back, gather more information on the requirements of the research position and the scope of the project you’d be working on.
Assess your options and dive in!
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