Contrary to popular belief, engineering isn’t just a subject for nerds and geeks who excel at mathematics and science. Engineering is the applied science of construction, it is about inventing mechanisms to solve problems using problem solving skills and skills developed through knowledge of mathematics and physics (this doesn’t mean you have to be a nerd to be an engineer though!).

Engineers find the best solution to a given problem. If you enjoy problem solving and inventing, and are decent at mathematics and physics, then just maybe engineering is the best career path for you.

There are numerous branches of engineering, if you are interested in engineering, you may possibly specialize in:

Civil – Involves the construction of works such as bridges, roads, and buildings, this is a very common field of engineering.

Industrial – Deals mainly with people and money

Electrical – Deals with the study of electricity, electronics and electromagnetism. Basically to do with all things electronic!

Mechanical – Involves the design and manufacture of mechanical systems.

Mechatronics – This incorporates electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering to create useful tools and devices, robotics is an example of a field that uses mechatronics.

Chemical – This involves the turning of raw materials into useful products.

Biological – Engineering that helps living organisms. Biological engineers may develop a product that is useful in that it helps to sustain or improve the life of another being.

Nuclear – Engineering that deals with nuclei, for example nuclear fission, the reaction that is undertaken to produce power in a nuclear power plant.

Petroleum – Engineering to do with, as the name suggests, petroleum. It can include the finding of petroleum supplies, or how to deal with the remaining area once all the petroleum has been mined.

So, to conclude, if you enjoy problem solving, and are capable at maths and physics (and biology if you wish to study biological engineering, chemistry if you wish to study chemical engineering), then engineering is a very rewarding career path that can be very enjoyable.

Who knows? You may develop a technology that ends up being used worldwide, imagine what you would be doing without a computer, telephone, or a fast means of transportation? A car is far more convenient to travel with around the country than your own feet!