Engineering covers an array of specialisms such as mechanical, civil, marine, chemical, biomedical, aerospace and more. Yet, all engineering graduates, no matter what the discipline, develop skills in problem solving, logistics and analytical thinking. While these attributes are of course directly applicable to traditional engineering roles, there are other suitable careers for graduates with engineering qualifications- some of which might surprise you!
1. Fashion engineer
High-tech fashion, production and manufacturing all fall within the realms of a fashion engineer. A keen eye for detail and an interest in functionality are just a couple of traits that engineers must possess. As a fashion engineer, graduates can enjoy combining their mathematic and scientific strengths with a creative and stylistic approach. Fashion is a fast-evolving industry and engineers sit at the forefront of this development. Think self-tying shoelaces, space suits and 3D printing for clothing. It might also involve the design of machinery and tools used to produce clothes. While perhaps not the most traditional route to follow an engineering degree, this is an area with huge potential.
2. Artificial intelligence (AI) specialist
It has been predicted that AI will replace 40% of the world’s jobs as automation becomes more common in the workplace. Engineers play a crucial part in this. We can already see the introduction of AI in our everyday lives such as drones, virtual assistants like Alexa, self-parking cars and voice recognition on our phones. With predictions for vast development and growth, AI is an exciting venture to enter into. Learn to build, maintain and develop software for artificial intelligence, simplifying processes and helping to design brand new and potentially transformative technology.
3. Finance
You might be wondering how an engineering graduate could succeed in a finance role. Well, the ability to manage complex problems and large sets of data is highly useful for any financial role such as investment banking or consulting. Engineering degrees themselves require a high standard of numerical skills which makes finance a relevant industry for engineering graduates.
Engineering students tend to be curious, logical and enjoy problem-solving. These attributes are therefore valuable to the financial sector. Large banking corporations such as Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan regularly employ STEM graduates, as these degrees imply hard work and intelligence. Of course, it can’t be ignored that engineering and finance roles are often well paid. So, if you’re driven by earning potential, finance roles are often paid similarly to those in engineering. However, to start working in finance, you might be required to show an interest in the sector with further experience or qualifications such as a postgraduate degree in economics, finance or other related subjects.
4. IT
Electrical and electronic engineering graduates in the UK work mostly within engineering and building (41.3%) followed by information technology (20.2%), according to AGCAS 2018/19. Within the field of IT, engineering graduates might work as a software engineer, systems engineer or an IT service manager for example. This type of work is required across many industries in line with the advancement of technology and improving technical systems within a business. An engineering degree will therefore equip you with the necessary computer skills and logical thinking needed for this type of work.
5. Technical writer
Put your communication skills to the test as an engineering technical writer. This job involves transforming complex information into readable, digestible formats on a specific subject. For engineers, this requires background knowledge on the topic and an interest in presenting information in innovative ways. You might assist in writing manuals, policy documents or technical descriptions. Technical writing is often required to share knowledge and help clients or colleagues understand a concept or process.
Wondering what to expect from an engineering degree? Or perhaps you want to start searching for engineering courses now? You can also use our course matcher tool to find courses and universities based on your preferences and qualifications.
