What are the different types of engineering and what do they do?

Question

i have thought about becoming an engineer but i dont know what type (maybe mechanical?) and i would like to know what a typical day would be like. like what types of things they would work on etc.

Answer 1

molecular engineering...... sweet field and its the future baby (aka $$$)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molecular_engineering

I'm going to school for it now.

get ready for some math and chemistry.

Answer 2

There are many specific fields of engineering. You will find, however, that any given school only offers certain types of engineering to study so be sure and check where you can major in the type of engineering you select (mechanical is pretty much offered at every engineering school, though). Personally, Im a Petroleum Engineer and love the job. I think a talk with the dean of your local college of engineering will help you decide which one might be right for you.

Answer 3

My husband has a BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering from an excellent engineering school (Virginia Tech) and he eventually ended up in upper management in a manufacturing environment. Right now he's the Plant Manager of a manufacturing plant, he has over 200 people working for him. The next step in this type of career path would normally be a VP or GM (general manager) on a corporate level. Mechanical (ME) and Electrical (EE) Engineering both can be very versatile and you can go in many, many different directions with either degree. It just depends on what you enjoy and where your talent lies. Go to the website of a good engineering school like VT (www.vt.edu) or Georgia Tech, Purdue, M.I.T., some where like that, and do some research on the various types of engineering.

Answer 4

Be an architect. You will have knowledge of all construction-related engineering fields. In a project, all engineers will be under your command!

Answer 5

I know some people hate answers which are just links, but this link is EXACTLY what you need and there is too much info for me to copy it here.
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm

Nature of the Work
Engineers apply the principles of science and mathematics to develop economical solutions to technical problems. Their work is the link between perceived social needs and commercial applications.

Engineers consider many factors when developing a new product. For example, in developing an industrial robot, engineers precisely specify the functional requirements; design and test the robot’s components; integrate the components to produce the final design; and evaluate the design’s overall effectiveness, cost, reliability, and safety. This process applies to the development of many different products, such as chemicals, computers, gas turbines, helicopters, and toys.

In addition to design and development, many engineers work in testing, production, or maintenance. These engineers supervise production in factories, determine the causes of component failure, and test manufactured products to maintain quality. They also estimate the time and cost to complete projects. Some move into engineering management or into sales. In sales, an engineering background enables them to discuss technical aspects and assist in product planning, installation, and use. Supervisory engineers are responsible for major components or entire projects. (

Engineers use computers extensively to produce and analyze designs; to simulate and test how a machine, structure, or system operates; and to generate specifications for parts. Many engineers also use computers to monitor product quality and control process efficiency. The field of nanotechnology, which involves the creation of high-performance materials and components by integrating atoms and molecules, also is introducing entirely new principles to the design process.

Most engineers specialize. This web link provides details on the 17 engineering specialties covered in the Federal Government’s Standard Occupational Classification system and on engineering in general. Numerous specialties are recognized by professional societies, and the major branches of engineering have numerous subdivisions. Some examples include structural and transportation engineering, which are subdivisions of civil engineering; and ceramic, metallurgical, and polymer engineering, which are subdivisions of materials engineering. Engineers also may specialize in one industry, such as motor vehicles, or in one type of technology, such as turbines or semiconductor materials.

Answer 6

there are many kinds of engineers heres a list: aerospace,chemichal,civil,electrical,industrial,materials,mechanichal,structural,systems engineer

Answer 7

Here's my favorite. Links at the bottom. Enjoy!

Answer 8

engineers build and design stuff.