How to become an engineer

Engineering is all about problem solving. Engineers use science, maths (and a lot of creative thinking!) to design, test and create machines, structures and processes. They come up with innovative solutions to issues, helping to tackle some of the world's greatest challenges, such as climate change, poverty, cyber security problems and ill health.

There are lots of different types of engineering, including civil, mechanical, electrical and chemical. The different areas are interconnected, meaning you could draw on several types of engineering in a role, or work very closely with engineers from other disciplines.

Aerospace engineers design, build and maintain aircrafts such as planes, spacecrafts and satellites. Their role combines aspects of both mechanical and electrical engineering.

Civil and structural engineers design and oversee construction projects, such as bridges and buildings.

Electrical engineering (unsurprisingly!) is all about the generation, distribution, application and control of electrical energy. Electronic engineering is slightly different, focusing on developing and testing electronic components, devices and systems.

General engineering refers to a subject you can choose to study at college or university. Rather than specialising in a certain branch of engineering straight away, it gives you the chance to get a basic introduction to the different areas before deciding which specialism might fit you best.

"Marine" means something related to the sea, for example boats or coastguards. Marine engineers therefore work on sea-related projects, designing, building, testing and repairing boats, ships, underwater crafts, offshore platforms and drilling equipment.

Materials engineers research the behaviour of different materials to make them as efficient and effective as possible. Sustainability is a key consideration in the role, making sure we are sourcing, using and reusing materials responsibly.

Mechanical engineering includes anything that moves, including human beings! Mechanical engineers develop and help improve mechanical components and systems. This can include a wide array of things, from artificial hearts to driverless cars.

Production engineers and manufacturing engineers are linked to the creation of products, aiming to find the most time and cost efficient ways to produce goods, helping reduce the environmental impact of production.

Software engineers design, build and test computer programmes, drawing on IT skills and maths.

Sound engineers work with equipment in studios and live settings to ensure the best possible audio quality.

• How many people work in the engineering sector?
• What can you earn in different roles?
• What routes can you take to get in?
• Is the demand for engineers expected to grow in the future?

Watch the film to find out the answers to these questions, and much more!

Other resources

• See what type of engineering role might suit you with the meet the future you quiz
• Find out more about the different areas of engineering with this guide from Tomorrow's Engineers
• Learn more about roles in engineering with the National Careers Service explore careers tool
• Discover a practical new way to study via T-levels (England-only).

For careers advice in all parts of the UK visit: National Careers Service (England), nidirect (Northern Ireland), My World of Work (Scotland) and Careers Wales (Wales).