What career paths can I pursue with Environmental + Mechanical Engineering???

Question

I possess a deep appreciation of nature. I love to go on treks and wilderness explorations. I desire to find solutions to climate change, innovate and design more efficient systems along with exploring and involving myself with geology, glaciology, hydrology, meteorology and climatology.

I am an undergraduate mechanical engineering student in the sophomore year. Would you list the career paths I can pursue in order to incorporate mechanical engineering with the natural environment?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi Nemeer!

 

Congratulations on your path towards your degree in mechanical engineering!  It looks like you might have the answer to your question as you have a vast appreciation for global environmental factors.  Because you already have an idea that you might enjoy innovative ways regarding solutions to the environment, think about WHAT types of solutions you want to focus on.  HOW, WHEN, WHY and WHERE I think might best help you answer your question.  It will help point you in the direction at the very least. 

 

Solar power, wind energy, green construction and development of electrical motor vehicles might be some avenues worth looking into.  You want to ask yourself HOW you will find work in those areas, WHEN do you want to begin your career, WHY and WHERE you want to live.  Those can be big factors in determining the abundance or limited amount of work in certain areas. 

 

I propose you check out http://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2016/employment-outlook-for-engineering-occupations-to-2024.htm for a "potential" projection of mechanical engineering jobs and the outlooks and wages for certain careers in this field.  Hopefully this helps in your decision making. 

 

I hope this helps! 

 

Best Regards,

 

Holly