Is a Technical Career Right For me?
My brother and I enjoyed a lunch together
recently and talked about a major career change he made several years after
graduating with an electrical engineering degree. After struggling in a
technical position, he completed an “aptitude test” where upon he discovered he
was better suited for accounting. The test pointed toward strength in ability
of working with numbers versus engineering principals. Unfortunately this was
discovered after considerable time and money had been invested in an
engineering career path much to the dismay of our parents.
So how does one know if they are
suited for a technical career? In addition to aptitude testing, there are some
basis questions you might ask yourself.
A. What are my interests?
A curiosity
of how and why things work the way they do is typically an attribute found in a
lot of budding engineers, scientists and technicians. Perhaps structures such
as bridges, stadiums, or high rise buildings fascinate you. This might be a
sign that you are interested in studying civil engineering. Interested in
marine life or the environment? Find out what engineering opportunities exist
in those areas.B. What subjects do I like?
Naturally math is an important subject at the high school level for those contemplating technical studies. I would also recommend evaluating what aspects of physics and chemistry you find appealing, particularly the former. High school physics deals with many of the aspects of engineering, i.e. chemical, electrical, mechanical, aeronautical, nuclear and more. Chemistry and mathematics are key subjects for chemical engineers. So take the opportunity to judge your interest from a subject perspective.
C. What subjects are my strengths?
Often your
likes are your strengths. But do not necessarily take that for granted. The
technical subjects you excel in are a good indicator that you have the ability
to grasp technical concepts be they of a mathematical, physical or chemical
nature. Whereas strength in artful subjects, literature or history would
suggest a different career path.
D. Who do I know in the field?
Knowing
someone working in the field that you are considering is a great way to become
familiar with what the work entails. Do your parents work in the field,
cousins, neighbors, aunts, uncles or siblings that work in the field? If so,
spend time with them, ask questions or possibly spend some time with them on
their job site or in their office or shop. Beware however, that none of the above questions alone can ensure survival in your chosen technical field. Also there are many books available that delve deeply into career choices. It is unfortunate that little time is spent understanding what a particular career encompasses until later when we are fully committed.
