ISE with a minor in physics?

Gator88NE
Wed, 25 Apr 2018 16:53:47 +0000

We have a lot to unpack here…

On job descriptions. Often these are handled by HR with input from the hiring (engineer) manager. They often can be vague or generic. If the description looks like an IE job, then go ahead and apply.

It’s not uncommon, especially at companies with a smaller engineering staff, for them to hire a mechanical, electrical, material, etc, engineer and then train/assign them IE roles. These companies may be open to hiring an IE to back-fill such a position (and even train them in some ME/EE type stuff), or not. You can’t tell until you engage with the company.

IE covers a wide range of industries, and every industry is a “business”. It sounds like you want to get more engaged with manufacturing systems, supply chain and perhaps information/communications systems. Minoring in physics is an option, but your school may offer several better options. (a physics minor, isn’t’ really going to be very helpful in your job search).

A minor in CS is a popular choice for IE’s. Some schools also offer minors in EE, ME, Material Engineering, etc. Check what minors are available, also what certificates (like Six Sigma/Green Belt) may also be available.

Instead of taking a minor, you may want to look at the option of taking additional IE classes/electives that relate to the industry/field you’re most interested in, such as manufacturing systems.

Finally, see if there is a club/student organization/design team that’s associated with the industry/field that you are targeting. If nothing else, your school likely has an IISE (Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers) group, which you should join.

Good Luck!