How to become an engineer

If you are interested in becoming an engineer, there are some things that you are going to need to do:

•  If you are still in high school, you should take the following classes: Algebra I, Algebra II, Trigonometry, Biology, Physics, 3 units of Social Studies, 2 units of Fine Arts or Humanities, Computer Programming, Geometry, Calculus, Chemistry, 4 units of English and 3 units of a foreign language.

•  You will need to get a 1100 on the SAT or a 20 on the ACT.

•  Decide upon which type of engineering you want to undertake: civil, mechanical, industrial, electrical, architectural, computer or chemical.

•  There are various ways in which you can get the schooling you need to become an engineer. These include attending a 4 or 5 year accredited college or university; 2 years in a community college engineering transfer program plus 2 or 3 years in an engineering program; 3 years in a science or mathematics major and 2 years in engineering; 5 to 6 years in an engineering co-op program; or 8 to 10 years as an evening engineering student.

•  Regardless of how you plan to get your schooling, you need to make sure that the schools is ABET-accredited. Being accredited is very important because the qualifications will have the right credentials as far as employers are concerned

•  While in school you need to do well and get good marks.

•  Upon completion of schooling you will have to undergo certain types of further post-secondary education and obtain a professional engineering license. You will have to have this license to work anywhere in the United States, except in California. This license is received once you have passed your state's F.E. (fundamentals of engineering) exam.

•  While getting your license you should try to get an internship so that you will have some job experience. This will look very favorable to future employers while also allowing you to get references. An employer would naturally prefer a candidate that has both qualifications as well as experience gained from doing an internship.

•  Once you have your F.E. License, you will be an engineer-in-training for 5 years.

•  After 5 years you will have to take and pass your state's P.E. (professional engineering) exam.

•  Having a license in 1 state allows you to work in that state but you will have to take an exam if you want to work in another state. Now you are a professional engineer and can display P.E. after your name. As such, you may wish to look for a better job.

•  There are many places online where you can look for jobs. It is also a good idea to do some networking.

•  It is also a good idea to continue your education by reading engineering magazines. You should also join a local Society of Professional Engineers.

•  Whenever possible, attend engineering seminars, industry conferences and training sessions.

Once you are an engineer you will be able to earn between $30,000 and $80,000 per year.