Engineer’s Week - What is an Engineer?

Engineer’s week is upon us and it is a great way to raise awareness about this dynamic and exciting sector.  Engineers are creative problem-solvers. They use basic concepts in maths and science to solve problems practically and to help make peoples’ lives better. Engineering is all around us and is part of our everyday life. Our mobile phones, laptops, hairdryers, shower gels, clothes, food, make up, bicycles, cars, and lots more are all designed and created by our wonderful engineers. Engineers tackle real world problems and are at the centre of innovation. They visualise solutions to our everyday problems, create them and see them through to the finished product, making sure they are fit for purpose.

There are many different types of engineers:

• Aeronautical - design flying machines

• Chemical - create life-saving drugs

• Mechanical - build the fastest cars, engines, machinery

• Biomedical - design robotic limbs

• Environmental - prevent pollution

• Civil - design cities, roads, bridges

• Computer and Electronic - build apps, develop hardware & software, build electronic devices

Opportunities in engineering exist from research and development to design, manufacturing, the services sector, and the business world.

There are many different types of engineering to choose from as seen from the list above. If you cannot make up your mind between the various types of engineering when you are applying to college, you can apply to one of the general courses available in third-level education and specialise later. General Engineering courses are a great way to sample all the different disciplines of Engineering and choose your favourite after further study.

 For more information on Engineering, go to www.engineersireland.ie to check out their excellent resources for Engineer’s week, or if you would like further information about Engineering courses/ careers,  contact McCullagh Careers today at info@mccullaghcareers.ie or 0872120527.