Engineers are at the forefront of shaping the world we live in, helping to solve our biggest challenges. From dealing with cyber security and minimising the impact of natural disasters to developing sustainable energy, food, housing and products; engineers help pave the way to a better future for everyone.
Research for Tomorrow’s Engineers – a programme bringing together engaging hands-on activities that showcase and contextualise modern engineering, with great careers information that helps young people understand how what they learn at school is used in the real world – shows that 90% of 9-18 year olds want a career that tackles social issues with almost half wanting to help animals (47%), two-fifths want to save peoples’ lives (37%) and a third want to help tackle homelessness (29%).
Engineers use their creativity and problem-solving skills to improve the design and performance of everything we use today and to develop the products and processes of the future. To help parents understand the careers available and the routes into engineering careers, Tomorrow’s Engineers have developed a Parent’s Guide to Engineering Careers. This can be downloaded for free.
So, how can you spot an engineer in waiting?
There are some common signs that engineers will exhibit, even at an early age. A career in engineering could be right for your child if they do any of the following:
- Ask how things work
- Dismantle and reassemble things
- Come up with solutions to problems
But it’s not just those who display these signs who could make great engineers. Common personality traits of successful engineers include:
- Curiosity
- Open-mindedness
- Resourcefulness
- Collaborating with others
- Problem solving
The UK needs many more engineers and engineering is a solid career with great earning potential.
Like doctors and lawyers, professional engineers are well respected and professional registration is recognised around the world. The letters they can put after their name demonstrate academic ability, expertise and competence developed by workplace experience.
The employment prospects are really good for engineers as it is one of the most in-demand jobs globally. A recent survey found that 94% of engineering undergraduates had entered full-time work, were pursuing further study or a combination of both, three and a half years after graduating.
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