208 Exploring Drafting
Mechanical Engineer
What would I do if I were to become a
mechanical engineer? I would design and
develop power-producing machines such as
generators, engines, and turbines. I would also
design and develop power-using machines
such as automotive vehicles, heating, venti-
lation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equip-
ment, machine tools, manufacturing systems
and components, elevators and escalators,
and robots used in automation systems. I
would also design and develop other types of
machinery and products.
What would I need to know? I would need
to know how to develop economical solutions to
technical mechanical problems. I would have to
know how to research, develop, design, manu-
facture, and test tools, engines, machines, and
other mechanical devices by applying theories
and principles of math and science. Also, I
would need to know basic drafting skills, stan-
dards, and principles using both manual and
computer-aided drafting (CAD) techniques and
tools. All engineers need to be creative, inquisi-
tive, analytical, and detail-oriented.
Where would I work? Generally, I would
work in an offi ce building, laboratory, or indus-
trial plant.
For whom would I work? I most often
would work in manufacturing. I would work for
a manufacturer of machinery, transportation
equipment, computer and electronics prod-
ucts, or fabricated metal products. I may also
work for a government agency or a company
in the architectural fi eld.
What sort of education would I need? A
bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering is
required. To be admitted to an undergraduate
engineering school, courses are required in math
(through calculus), science (through physics),
English, social studies, humanities, information
technology, and mechanical drafting/CAD.
What are the special fields relating fi fi
to this career? Mechanical engineering is a
specialized fi eld of engineering. Specialized
fi elds of mechanical engineering include
automotive design and plant engineering and
maintenance. Mechanical engineering is also
related to the design of energy systems, manu-
facturing systems, materials, pressure vessels
and piping, and HVAC systems.
What are my chances of finding a
job? The demand for mechanical engi-
neers is not expected to grow quite as
fast as the demand for some other engi-
neering specialties over the next several
years. However, new technologies relating
to nanotechnology, materials science, and
biotechnology should provide opportuni-
ties for mechanical engineers. Also, it is not
uncommon for someone holding a degree in
mechanical engineering to qualify for jobs in
other special engineering fields.
How much money could I expect
to make? The median salary for degreed
mechanical engineers in recent years was
$74,920. However, salaries ranged from
$47,900 to $114,740 and up. Information from
a recent survey showed that mechanical engi-
neers with only a bachelor’s degree received
offers averaging $48,585. With a master’s
degree, that fi gure increased to $54,565. With
a doctorate, it was $69,904.
Where else could I look for more
information about becoming a mechan-
ical engineer? See the US Department
of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics
Occupational Outlook Handbook (at www.
bls.gov) or request information from the
American Society of Mechanical Engineers
(www.asme.org). Information relating to two
special fields of mechanical engineering,
HVAC and automotive, is available from the
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating,
C A R E E R s i n d r a f t i n g
(continued) d d