Because I think I have pretty good math and brain skills and because my school offers very good engineering program, I want to be an engineer. My father, however, is kinda opposing the idea (he also studied electricity and such, worked in subway systems), because he says an engineer has not much contact with the people and is basically "stuck" in an office room, or even worse in unsanitary or dangerous factories and such.
I know engineering varies by speciality, but I'm thinking about mechanical and civil, and I would like to know what my life would be like. Do you engineers have at least a decent exposure to the social life or all you do is basically desk work and such?
I love people and I would hate sitting in an office for 40 hour or more per week staring at computer.
I hope I didn't sound too negatively and if there is some misconception plz correct me. Thank you.
2007-03-28 08:13:17 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Business & Finance ➔ Careers & Employment
oh, also my father thinks people don't have a great image of an engineer (you know like doctor or lawyer) and he believes such image or reputation is important in the later stages of life. What do you guys think?
2007-03-28 08:15:20 · update #1
my father was a mechanical engineer. civil probably has more outside contact and site work. both are mainly office jobs, qustion becomes what types of firm you work for in terms of client contact versus being inside person. As to respect, I think they are respected, maybe not doc or lawyer but certainly considered as professionals, and in this day and age where technical skills more and more important, think they are more respected. Lot of the "social life" in office is with your coworkers also, so have to decide what type of people you'd like working with all day.
2007-03-28 08:34:41 · answer #1 · answered by jim06744 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am an engineer and went that direction too because of my math skills. I want you to know that the most common degree among CEO's of Fortune 500 companies is engineering. I bet you did not know that. I work in the oil and gas business and have used my knowledge and inquisitive nature to learn much about the industry and do multiple jobs both in engineering and geology. Go get your engineering degree. It will open many doors for you and what you do once inside is up to you. I would recommend also developing some creativity as well. You will be amazed what the combination will do for you. Good luck to you. If you need any other advice let me know.
2007-03-28 08:55:27 · answer #2 · answered by Blue-Eyed Guy 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Engineering is a great profession - i suggest you take a look for the Occupational Outlook Handbook produced by the US Department of Labor - they describe the working conditions, salaries, job futures, etc. of all of the major engineering fields.
enjoy! http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm
2007-03-28 08:38:38 · answer #3 · answered by Piggiepants 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't have any advice but I do have a friend who is an Engineer. He may have some answers and guidance for you. I will email this question to him. Good luck!!
2007-03-28 08:36:14 · answer #4 · answered by Teddy Bear 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋