Jobs vs. Careers: Engineering

Engineering covers a broad range of occupations. According to Occupational Outlook: “Engineers apply the principles of science and mathematics to develop economical solutions to technical problems. Their work is the link between scientific discoveries and the commercial applications that meet societal and consumer needs.”
Also, there is an overlapping or collaborative effort between engineers and many other disciplines.Engineering has a shared history with art and design, as well. Creativity, balance, symmetry, application and overall design are all apart of engineering.
If you are planning to go into any form of engineering, constant study is inherent in the occupation. An engineer may not be developing or discovering new ideas or outcomes, but they are constantly impacted by new things.

Classifications
Some of the major categories are Chemical Engineering and Civil Engineering. In addition, Electrical Engineering is a very broad area that may encompass the design and study of various electrical and electronic systems, computer systems and telecommunication, and Mechanical Engineering includes the design of physical or mechanical systems.

Problem solving
Critical and analytical thinking are characteristics of those involved in the engineering disciplines; engineers are problem solvers. Using their knowledge of science, math, logic and economics they develop ways to analyze, test and eventually come up with potential solutions.
Computers play an important part in engineering—whether it’s cataloguing and recording the data or helping in the designing of mathematical models. A widely used tool is computer-aided design (CAD) software which enables engineers to create 3D models, 2D drawings and schematics of designs.
According to various sources, such as Career Outlook and figures published by the professional engineering publications, income for engineers is on average $75,000. Engineering technician salaries are less. However, whereas the training is not as long and intensive, technician jobs are very much tied into the need of the project and the economic viability of the specific company.