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We have already demonstrated that the engineering industry has a clearly defined career path for those with ambitions to progress. And because demand for suitably qualified and skilled labour within the industry is high, the opportunities for professional development, advancement and variation are readily available across a wide range of engineering disciplines.
All you have to do is decide which sector you want to work in and think about how you would like your new role to progress.
The Engineering Council describes engineering as ‘the application of science and maths to the solving of practical problems and the making of useful things’.
Engineers will continue to be at the forefront of change and development across every sector of society and by default, opportunities for both inexperienced and experienced professionals will continue to prevail.
When you start your career, you need to consider your own personal ambitions and where you see yourself in both the short and long term. If you are looking to progress through the ranks you need to be aware of what steps you need to take and the timeframe required before you can take the next step up the ladder.
For instance, the career progression from Senior Operator to Team Leader will take considerably less time to achieve than it will for a newly qualified engineering graduate who is determined to become a chartered engineer – about two and four years respectively.
The area of engineering that you have studied during your undergraduate degree will largely determine the sector in which you work. And because the specific skills required in one sector may vary from those needed in another sector, you may find it difficult to transfer your skills from nuclear to civil engineering.
However, if you feel that the profession isn’t quite what you anticipated in terms of variety, challenge or working conditions - don’t fret. A number of engineers have created successful alternative careers in a number of varying roles, such as specialist sales, marketing, teaching and consultancy.
Wondering what to do now? Check out our expert career advice, find out more about the Engineering industry or search for the latest Engineering jobs.