Ask A Scientist© Engineering Archive

Index Key:   ENG005
Author:      davida
Subject:     Future of mechanical engineering
Text:        As a student in mechanical engineering, I have a question about 
the future of this field.  It seems that in today's scientific environment 
most new advancements and discoveries are occurring in the fields of 
electrical or aerospace engineering.  I am interested in mechanical 
engineering, however, and would like to find out what areas of this practice 
are at the forefront of technology so that I might choose my course work with 
this in mind.

Response #:  1 of 2
Author:      dipper
Text:        If you like mechanical engineering, then my advice is to continue 
to pursue it.  Both electrical/electronic and aerospace engineering have 
strong mechanical components to them.  The field of factory automation, which 
is partly electronic and computer engineering, is by far mostly mechanical.  
There are several other specific fields that could be suggested.  One 
suggestion, however -- become very fluent in several CAD and CAD/CAM/CIM 
languages.  If your college does not offer courses in them, find a tech school 
or private school that does.  Successful ME's more and more need these skills.

Response #:  2 of 2
Author:      cdmurphy
Text:        Advancements and discoveries are being made in just about every 
field, including mechanical engineering.  My advice is to go with what comes 
natural to you.  I found that fluids and heat transfer were easy for me, so I 
specialized in heat transfer and fluid mechanics.  By choosing mechanical 
engineering, you have opened for yourself a large opportunity.  You can 
specialize in just about anything you like:  plant design, power generation, 
fluids, design, CAD, etc.  As for class work, take a wide range (if possible) 
to see what you like best.  There is always advancement and discoveries as 
long as you want to push yourself to find them.