How, where and from who to get career guidance and mentoring.

p13dp1p3r · Jul 28, 2015

I am a young engineer from South-Africa only starting to find my feet in the engineering world.
I have recently come to notice that there are to many aspects that I have yet to consider going forward and that guidance of a more experienced other would be needed. I do not know many people in the field that are older or have more experience that I do and this makes it quite difficult to find someone to ask for career and personal growth advise. Is there a way where people like me can meet someone,learn about someone or even just write to someone for advice? I need decent guidance but the chance to make a possible friend that is willing to advise on issues and concerns and help a young engineer carve out his way forward would be ideal. Any other advise regarding this would also be greatly appreciated. [bigears]

Mechanical321 · Jul 28, 2015

p13dp1p3r:
Here! In fact you could ask your specific question directly. By reading some of the posts here, I have started to have a real feel of Engineering. When I was in University, I took all my classes to pass and to get good grades so I can get a high paying job after graduation. The thing I regret the most is: I wish I took those classes to learn( then apply and practice) instead for degree only. Now, I do self-learning and teach myself. Anyway, I feel it's still not too late. Advice for you? Keep improving everyday and learn as much as you can. That is exactly what I am doing. Goodluck!

KENAT · Jul 28, 2015

Are there any engineering societies or organization you could join to try and get some of what is missing at your current employer?

Certainly take a look at posts on here and if applicable ask specific questions and at least someone may be able to help a bit - but I won't claim it can completely fill the role of true mentor.

Posting guidelines faq731-376
http://eng-tips.com/market.cfm?
(probably not aimed specifically at you)
What is Engineering anyway: faq1088-1484

SlideRuleEra · Jul 30, 2015

p13dp1p3r - For mentoring to work, either in person or online, there has got to be a two-way conversation. So far, you are not doing that on this thread. You have gotten really good advice from two ET members. KENAT has asked you a meaningful question. Why not return here and discuss it with him? That's how career progress is made... and inch at a time.

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net