The attributes and skills needed for engineering

Gain an insight into what engineers do, and the skills and abilities they require to succeed in the diverse and exciting world of engineering.

Engineers are the problem-solvers that power the modern world. They design, build, test and maintain the systems we encounter on a daily basis, from our houses and road networks to the devices we use at home, at work and on the go.

There are many careers in engineering. From solving issues with electrics and automobiles to designing software and technology that will shape our future, you'd be surprised how many aspects of our lives are supported by engineers.

The sheer diversity of roles in the engineering sector is striking. Whether you love fieldwork and travelling around the world, or you prefer the comfort of a desk job where you’re analysing data at a computer, there's an area of engineering that requires your skills and suits your character.

A defence engineer, for example, can work in adrenaline-fuelled jobs alongside the army to design and maintain military equipment. An environmental engineer, on the other hand, will be protecting environments and ecosystems, and envisaging sustainable solutions for the future.

Most engineers share a passion for solving problems, with an inquisitive mind and a keen eye for detail that allows them to get to the bottom of an issue and identify areas for improvement. 

These attributes form a foundation on which engineering abilities can be developed through study and work experience; graduate schemes are designed to foster these interests, and to help you gain tangible expertise and get to grips with engineering requirements in the workplace.

Here are some engineering skills that are important to employers:

• An analytical mind. You’re capable of thinking critically when presented with a situation, to identify solutions and areas for improvement
• Quick thinker. You can apply your knowledge and abilities to rapidly solve problems when presented with an urgent issue
• Team player. You thrive when working in a team, and can express yourself confidently and clearly when communicating with others
• Technical skills. You have a good grasp of key engineering principles, with qualifications in maths, science, engineering or technology
• Time management. You find it easy to organise your time and prioritise tasks based on their level of urgency

Wondering how to get into engineering? Here are five must-haves for starting a rewarding career:

• A qualification or degree in a relevant field, eg. science, maths or engineering
• An understanding of the different roles, and what they entail
• A clear idea of what career path is best suited to your skills and attributes 
• Work experience, ideally in the engineering sector
• A desire to learn and change the world as we know it!