Help. Electrical or Mechanical Engineering?

[Andy Baker]

Originally Posted by Don Rotolo

An ME is more comfortable being able to see and feel their reality.

This is very similar to how I describe my enjoyment in being a mechanical engineer. But, this does not include all ME's. Thermodynamics, fluid power management, and process flow management all include mechanical engineering skills that don't include being able to see and feel their reality.

When I was in college, I had the pleasure of working for GE Plastics. During my last term as a co-op, I held the job I liked the least: process optimization engineer. My job was to contain water waste within a chemical process. I tracked down valves and pipes and put together a project that reduced water waste. My project was successful, but I didn't get to feel and touch what I was doing. I think that is why I didn't enjoy this job.

One of the very important things about deciding on what sort of engineer you wish to be is DECIDING WHAT YOU DON'T LIKE TO DO. The more experience a person has on a competition robotics team, within school projects, at internships and co-op jobs they have, the more they will figure out what they like and DON'T like.

I am fortunate that I figured out what I liked and did not like before graduating from college. The more experience a person gets, the easier this is to figure out.

Andy