Engineers play a crucial role in solving society’s problems and helping us move forward. If you’re interested in heading down this path, one popular career to consider is mechanical engineering. Here’s a rundown of what a mechanical engineer does and how you can become one.

What does a mechanical engineer do?

Mechanical engineers are responsible for designing, fabricating and testing mechanical devices and sensors. These engineers see the problem and try to find a solution, harnessing the power of physics and mathematics in the process. If you go this job route, you may work in a wide variety of fields from cybersecurity to robotics to HVAC and more. 

Why become a mechanical engineer?

Because mechanical engineering is so broad, your job opportunities as a mechanical engineer will be vast. The proof is in the numbers. In the next several years, the field is expected to grow 9%, which is much faster than the average job. This translates to an average of more than 18,000 job openings for mechanical engineers each year now through 2034! Not only are there ample job opportunities for mechanical engineers, but they are also high-paying, with the median pay being more than $102,000 per year.

If you love working with the most advanced technology available, becoming a mechanical engineer is a great way to scratch that itch. From lasers to robotics to heat exchangers, you get to work with it all! This is a career that will constantly challenge you and allow you to tackle real-world problems and make an impact. You’ll be able to utilize your creativity and critical thinking skills every day. 

Being a mechanical engineer means you’re on the forefront of exciting engineering breakthroughs! It’s hard to be bored when there’s always a new problem to solve.

How to become a mechanical engineer

To become a mechanical engineer, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree. Common mechanical engineering majors include mechanical engineering technology and manufacturing engineering technology. Coursework will include engineering and design, math, and life and physical sciences. If you’d like to continue moving up as a mechanical engineer, you might consider pursuing a master’s degree in engineering or business administration.

Often mechanical engineering majors focus more on hands-on applications rather than theoretical concepts. You’ll spend a lot of time doing.

Pursue a mechanical engineering major at the University of Northern Iowa

Dreaming about a job as a mechanical engineer? Start with earning your degree at the University of Northern Iowa. UNI offers a variety of engineering programs, including mechanical engineering technology and manufacturing engineering technology. You’ll get into our cutting-edge labs in the Applied Engineering Building your first semester, allowing you to learn and practice key skills early. Smaller class sizes and a close-knit group of faculty allow you to get to know your professors on a more personal level. These relationships are key to your success!

Learn more about all the engineering programs at the University of Northern Iowa by visiting degrees.uni.edu/engineering.