Engineer Your Future Career in the New Year

by Elizabeth Buckner
Online Degrees Columnist

Looking for an exciting, hands-on occupation? If you want a job that's in high demand and commands competitive salaries, electrical or mechanical engineering might be exactly what you are seeking. This New Year, resolve to get the education and training you need to become an electrical or mechanical engineer--it's not just for nerds anymore.

A Problem-Solving Career in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering
Engineers work to develop solutions to all kinds of technical problems using science and mathematics. Specifically, electrical engineers design and develop electrical equipment, whereas mechanical engineers work to research, design and develop tools, engines, machines, and other mechanical devices.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job outlook for electrical and mechanical engineers to be favorable, particularly for those in the fast-growing service industries. The National Association of Colleges and Employers listed electrical and mechanical engineers on their short list of in-demand careers in 2007. The Society for Women Engineers also notes that women make up approximately 20% of the engineering student population, and that number is growing every day.

Great Salaries for Electrical and Mechanical Engineering
An engineering education is definitely an investment in your future, as engineering offers some of the best paying entry-level jobs. According to the BLS, electrical engineers' average salaries are around $64,416 and mechanical engineers average $59,880 annually. Salaries in the federal government are even better, ranging from $70,086 to $100,059.

A university degree in engineering is required for almost all entry-level engineering jobs. Your coursework should cover math, science, and computer courses, as well as special engineering courses. In addition, it is important for electrical and mechanical engineers to continue their education throughout their careers because of rapidly changing technology.

So what are you waiting for? This year, find the degree program in electrical and mechanical engineering that's right for you and discover the career you've been waiting for.

About the Author
Elizabeth Buckner is a freelance writer and current Fulbright grantee to Morocco, where she is conducting research on language education and the growth of English. She holds a B.A. in Sociology/Anthropology and Education from Swarthmore College.

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