5 Essential Facts Every Aspiring Mechanical Engineer Should Know

If you are a fresher from mechanical engineering, you might know your way around physics and mathematics. You may have also learned about Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM). In spite of proficiency in these fundamental topics, it's possible to struggle with landing a full-time job. 

In this article, you will learn about the 5 facts you didn't know as a mechanical engineer that will throw some light on the skills needed to make it in this exciting field:

1. Don't Underestimate the tool test

If you have not heard about the term "tool test," this is the right time to get acquainted with it. Every mechanical engineer must spend time working on their knowledge of tools as it is a necessary prerequisite for securing a core engineering job. If you are applying for a technical position in the design, FEA, or CFD domain, you will be asked multiple questions related to the tool test in your interview. First, the company will put you through a round of technical discussions. After clearing that round, you get to the "tool test," where they will ask you to apply the theoretical aspects that you learned in an industry-oriented project. 

Mechanical engineering is a field where you learn by doing. Hence, in order to work in core engineering, you need to show your expertise in a particular tool within a specific period.

2. Theoretical concepts aren't enough to crack the interview

Mechanical and automotive engineers must improve their knowledge of theoretical concepts for sure, as it will help them pass the technical round in company interviews. But simply knowing about the theoretical elements won't help you clear the tool test: you also need to be aware of their applications in the real world. Mechanical engineering students must get as much hands-on training as possible to fill the gap between theory and practice. Don't just learn about and revise the theory behind the tools; practice them to build and design your projects. Remember that practical knowledge is a solid skill that many companies are actively seeking in their employees. As such, freshers must find a way to supplement theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

3. Begin working on industry-oriented projects

Research shows that you are more likely to be interviewed and hired by the best engineering companies when you have prior experience working on industry-specific projects. In these industry-oriented projects, you learn the theory, the tool, and then start working on the projects. The easiest way to gain hands-on experience with engineering software is to choose a platform where you can work on projects with their licensed tools. For example, if you know any 3D modeling platform, you can build your own 3D models and find a way to utilize them for either an FEA or CFD project. In this way, your work will be noticed by the industry, and you will increase your chances of getting your dream job.

4. Only 6.4% of Mechanical Engineers are Employable

Millions of mechanical engineers graduate out of universities consistently, but only 6.4% end up in a position in one of the renowned core engineering companies. The remaining 93.6% don't get the opportunity to make use of the three facts mentioned above. To work as a mechanical or automotive engineer and secure a chance in one of the core engineering companies, you have to concentrate on having a fantastic comprehension of specialized ideas. You must be able to apply those ideas in a specific tool and ensure you participate in a great deal of industry-oriented undertakings. Only by following these steps religiously would you have a shot at being one of those 6.4% graduate students. 

5. Pick your domain and specialize in it

In engineering, there are almost 40-48 subjects. Instead of trying to understand all of them, you need to pick a few of these topics as per your area of interest. Here's a rundown of how this works. In general, each domain requires students to have an excellent theoretical understanding of the four main subjects. Since your focus will center around four main courses that are respective to your interest domain, there is no need to mug up all the 40 subjects. This is why choosing an area of ​​interest is important for your career. 

To know which domain is perfect for you, you must first properly analyze your strengths and weaknesses. You might get confused at first, so experiment with various techniques, work hard, and check if this is the right domain for you. Mechanical engineering is a broad field with unlimited possibilities. If you don't know where to start, here are a few examples for the same: 

• CFD: Fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, jet propulsion, and gas dynamics
• FEA: Structural analysis, solid mechanics, the strength of materials, and finite element analysis
• Design: Machine design, engineering graphics, dynamics of machines, etc.

Once you have an excellent conceptual understanding of the four subjects, get familiar with the relevant tools to apply the theory behind the domain. Getting as much aptitude as possible in that specific area makes it immensely easier to secure a core engineering job.