The truth about working in engineering
In a recent discussion with some of our graduate Consultants, we realised that jobs in engineering aren’t always portrayed in the most accurate, simple or positive way. New graduates with engineering degrees can often approach their first job search with false impressions.
To offer the next generation of engineers a truer perspective, we spoke to our team at Verco. We asked them to share the most common misconceptions about working in engineering (and sustainability) and how different their roles are to what’s often expected.
Misconception #1: You will only use skills developed during your education and degree
Let’s start with the obvious. A relevant educational background is important for technical roles, but every career requires professional development and on-the-job learning. At Verco, you will be putting into practice a lot of what you’ve learnt, but it’s a complex, detailed and often fascinating sector, with so much more to teach you. Our team reflects on how much knowledge, real experience and responsibility they gain in a short time.
We offer continuing, comprehensive training and development as well as paid professional membership and support with charterships in relevant fields. Every team member is encouraged to extend their knowledge, skill and expertise, so we never stop learning.
Consultant Harry Phillips explained: “Your education provides the foundation for a lot of the knowledge and skills you use as an engineer, but this is combined with experience gained as you work on projects and train in your field.”
Misconception #2: It’s all about hands-on technical work and practical skills, and too much time is spent on site
There’s often an element of practicality to jobs in engineering, but how much or how little can be up to you - it’s important to research roles before drawing conclusions. If you particularly enjoy the practical side, make sure you find something that includes frequent on-site trips and audits which can take you all over the world. Here at Verco, for example, we work with such a wide range of clients that the on-site experience looks different each time and keeps things varied and interesting.
If you’re not a fan of hands-on, technical work, or prefer a hybrid mix of home and office working, then roles with a focus on strategy, data analysis and problem solving are far more common than you might think.
Consultant Victoria Schutz told us, “Engineering is a diverse field with many opportunities. The role of sustainability consultant, for example, focuses more on theoretical analysis and strategic thinking.”
Misconception #3: Most engineering workplaces are boring
Technical, yes. Productive, absolutely. But boring? With a wide variety of compelling projects to work on, a close-knit team with shared values and a common purpose, plus a busy social calendar, an engineering workplace will be far from boring.
Junior Consultant Maiti Hutchinson explained the importance of connections, networking and a sense of belonging, particularly that “social skills are an essential part of how consultants communicate with clients and teams. At Verco, we often arrange socials to relax and enjoy time with our colleagues, too.”
Your career in engineering will be what you make it. Take advantage of opportunities to learn and grow, try both the practical and theoretical, get to share different perspectives and enjoy problem-solving with others. And never stop asking for advice.
If you’d like to chat with one of our team and get an insider’s perspective before you commit to a role in this sector, sign up below before the end of January.