<p>I know this is kind of a stupid question…but what exactly is engineering? From what I’ve researched, it’s using math and science to solve problems. What is a life plan if you decide to study engineering? </p>
<p><a href=“STEM Careers - DiscoverE”>http://www.discovere.org/discover-engineering/engineering-careers</a></p>
<p>“Using math and science to solve problems” is almost right. It’s really more of, “using math and science.” Emphasis on “using.”</p>
<p>If a mathematician comes up with a new technique to factor very large numbers, that’s science. If a programmer uses that technique to strengthen the security of an encryption application, that’s engineering.</p>
<p>If a chemist discovers a particular combination of substances, at a particular temperature, has an unexpectedly low friction point, that’s science. If a Honda R&D lab figures out how to use that in engine cylinder linings to improve longevity and power, that’s engineering.</p>
<p>Etc.</p>
<p>Here are two assignments I got as a beginning engineer years ago. This is typical of the type of things engineers can be asked to do.</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Given a set of requirements, which bolt should be used to hold a tail rotor assembly of a military helicopter? Can a standard bolt be used. And how much will it cost to procure 2000 of them, either a custom bolt or a standard one. Write a report.</p></li>
<li><p>An inertial navigation system (INS) for an attack helicopter contains seven components. Each has a certain amount of error in the accuracy of their readings both along-track (ATK) and cross-track (CTK). After assembling all the components into the system, what should the acceptance testing criteria be for the entire helicopter as measured by circular error probability (CEP) after travelling 10, 25, and 50 km. (Basically, how far off target is the helicopter allowed to be after flying a set course and distance so that the government knows the INS was assembled correctly.) Write a report.</p></li>
</ol>
<p>Engineering is a very broad field, but without giving an open-ended response, as an Engineer I solve problems on a daily basis. Create things that do not exist or make things work that seem to be impossible. Once you see your hard work in the spotlight or out serving it’s purpose, the reward is a smile ear to ear.</p>
<p>You can choose your path in Engineering, but often it takes a few years to find your niche. I work in R & D and find it to be the most rewarding, working with cutting edge new technology is exciting and also frustrating at the same time since budgets can kill your program quick. </p>
<p>Also being laid off or part of restructuring is a fact of life in this day an age, be prepared to adapt if you cannot stay in the same sector, I have worked in many different sectors and found that one cannot get too comfortable in any. Also it’s important to keep your skills sharp, stay up on latest technology, trends and educate yourself. </p>
<p>Past the academic world of getting a Degree, things get harder in my opinion, not only are you tasked with problems, these problems can end up killing someone or costing the company thousands if not millions of dollars, a lot of responsibility. Also interpersonal skills and growing a thick skin, something they do not tend to teach in school become a daily requirement. </p>
<p>“What is a life plan if you decide to study engineering?” - Lots of variations in life plan after graduation. BUT you have to first survive the rigorous academics. </p>