First off, I just want to say Eng-tips is an excellent resource. Thanks to everyone who takes time to contribute. This is my first post, but as a new engineer I've read many, many more. I hope it won't be my last.
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I'm a mechanical engineer with one year of co-op experience in construction coordination and two years utility planning experience. I'm currently in Canada. I've been dying for an opportunity to involve myself in a part of the field where I can be more hands-on / get my hands dirty. I enjoyed the utility experience otherwise and could definitely continue in an industrial / power type setting.
I) Are there opportunities for this in the field - perhaps like a high level technician or even a hands on consultant type role (thinking of the future here)? So many opportunities seem geared towards management and coordination, which for me doesn't always feel like engineering. I have seen rotating equipment engineer postings, which looks interesting to me, but ask for many years of experience. Are these typically hands-on?
II) Would I be mistaken by considering a mechanical trade (e.g. Millwright / Industrial mechanic or large engine mechanic) instead of finding hands-on work as an engineer? I would like advice here particularly on doing a trade after an engineering degree as I have found much info for those going the other way (trade to degree).
I'm currently taking some machinist courses part-time and am loving that experience. It is part of what is inspiring me to act on feelings that have been beneath the surface for some time.
I'm not asking anyone to tell me where I where to go. I am still young in the field though. The more experienced engineers here may know of some opportunities and/or directions I've overlooked. Any perspective or advice?
Cheers,
Jim
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I'm a mechanical engineer with one year of co-op experience in construction coordination and two years utility planning experience. I'm currently in Canada. I've been dying for an opportunity to involve myself in a part of the field where I can be more hands-on / get my hands dirty. I enjoyed the utility experience otherwise and could definitely continue in an industrial / power type setting.
I) Are there opportunities for this in the field - perhaps like a high level technician or even a hands on consultant type role (thinking of the future here)? So many opportunities seem geared towards management and coordination, which for me doesn't always feel like engineering. I have seen rotating equipment engineer postings, which looks interesting to me, but ask for many years of experience. Are these typically hands-on?
II) Would I be mistaken by considering a mechanical trade (e.g. Millwright / Industrial mechanic or large engine mechanic) instead of finding hands-on work as an engineer? I would like advice here particularly on doing a trade after an engineering degree as I have found much info for those going the other way (trade to degree).
I'm currently taking some machinist courses part-time and am loving that experience. It is part of what is inspiring me to act on feelings that have been beneath the surface for some time.
I'm not asking anyone to tell me where I where to go. I am still young in the field though. The more experienced engineers here may know of some opportunities and/or directions I've overlooked. Any perspective or advice?
Cheers,
Jim