Mechanical, Biomedical, and Civil Engineering - Term Paper Example

CAREER RESEARCH REPORT Name Course: Instructor: Date: Table of contents; Contents Contents 2 Executive Summary 3 Introduction; 4 2.1 Mechanical engineering 7 2.1.1 Evolving Profession 7 2.1.2 Training for a Career in Mechanical Engineering 8 2.1.3 College for the Mechanical Engineering Student 9 2.1.4 Where Mechanical Engineers Work 10 2.2 Biomedical Engineering 11 2.2.1 Suitability of biomedical engineering 12 2.2.2 Responsibilities of biomedical engineers 12 2.2.3 Difference between biomedical engineers differ and other engineers 14 2.2.4 Education required for biomedical engineering 14 2.2.5 High school education for studies in biomedical engineering 15 2.2.6 University courses for biomedical engineering 16 2.2.7 Practical experience during training for biomedical engineering 17 2.2.8 Key areas of biomedical engineering 17 2.3 Civil engineering 19 2.3.1Basic Requirements 19 2.3.2 Career path in civil engineering 20 2.4 Earnings 21 Conclusion; 22 References 23 Executive Summary Choosing a right and satisfying career requires more than just identifying what is open to you. It is important to have sufficient knowledge about yourself first. It is necessary to have a look at your personal abilities, goals, interests, values and skills and to relate them to career options available to you. The suggestions given here are just to help you in the process of making an informed decision. Majority of employers look out for extra skills such as interpersonal skill, communication skills, leadership skills, customer focus as well as the ability to work in and contribute to a team. A number of these skills are developed at the degree level, whereas others are developed through extra-curricular activities such as community groups, cultural groups or sports. It has been quite challenging to provide a definitive list of career options because most employers are developing jobs that suit their own environment. The three careers discussed here are illustrative rather than exhaustive. Introduction; There has been an imbalance on the labor market that is challenging to planners, managers, recruiters as well as job seekers. This imbalance is abundantly clear when, for instance, individuals seeking work as engineers have acute shortage of the required engineering skills. These situations can be contributed toward by the market realities discussed below: First, the need to replace retiring engineers exceeds by far the jobs created as a result the growth of economy. This brings about shortage in skills which is highly needed but requires more than ten years experience. Second, there is great number of engineering students who are enrolled in and are competing for engineering programs but are yet to acquire the necessary practical skills. The growth of this labor pool results in the coincident increase in the number of engineers striving to fill the scarce job vacancies. Engineers are known to apply principles of Mathematics as well as Science so as to solve both economical and technical problems. The have the responsibility of linking scientific findings with needs of the society or consumers. Many new products are developed by engineers, and various factors are often considered during the process. Other than being involved in design and development, other working areas for engineers include maintenance, production as well as testing. Part of their responsibilities include supervision of production in industries, testing of the manufactured products to ensure that the right quality is maintained, as well as the determination of causes of any failure in specific components. Furthermore, they also estimate the cost and time necessary for the completion of projects. There exist more than twenty five (25) major specialties of engineering that are recognized by the engineering professional societies. Majority of engineers are known to specialize in any of the twenty five or major branches which also have many subdivisions. In the United States, degrees offered in various fields of engineering are accredited with a view to ensuring that students are provided with relevant engineering education of highest quality through the programs. In some cases, engineers specialize to serve a specific industry or field of technology, such as motor industry or semiconductors materials respectively. In each branch, engineers have a base of knowledge as well as training that are applicable in various fields. For example, electronics engineers work in computer, communications, medical, and missile guidance fields. Since there exist various separate problems in a large engineering project that require different solutions, engineers in a specific field may find it necessary to cooperate closely with specialists including other engineers, scientists as well as businessmen. Well recognized engineering and engineering technology fields include: 1) Aerospace Engineering 2) Agricultural Engineering 3) Architectural Engineering 4) Bioengineering 5) Ceramic Engineering 6) Chemical Engineering 7) Civil Engineering 8) Computer Engineering 9) Construction Engineering 10) Electrical and Electronics Engineering 11) Engineering (General), Engineering 12) Physics, or Engineering Science 13) Engineering Management 14) Engineering Mechanics 15) Environmental Engineering 16) Forest/Paper Engineering 17) Geological Engineering 18) Industrial Engineering 19) Manufacturing Engineering 20) Materials Science and Engineering 21) Mechanical Engineering 22) Metallurgical Engineering 23) Microelectronic Engineering 24) Mining Engineering 25) Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering 26) Nuclear Engineering 27) Ocean Engineering 28) Petroleum Engineering 29) Software Engineering 30) Surveying and Geomatics 31) Systems Engineering 2. Selected careers Three engineering careers have been discussed in this section and they include mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering and civil engineering. 2.1 Mechanical engineering Figure 1: Mechanical engineers at work Mechanical engineers are more interested in force, energy and motion and their principles. Professionals who have chosen mechanical engineering as their careers have vast knowledge of the manufacture and design of mechanical systems as well as thermal processes and systems. Among the processes and products that mechanical engineers develop include control systems and engines for aircraft and automobiles, lifesaving medical devices, plants for generating electric power, as well as consumer products which range from athletic equipment and personal computers to air conditioners. Furthermore, they are responsible for the designing of machines which offer mass production of these products. Anything which moves or uses energy is believed to be most probably designed or produced by a mechanical engineer. 2.1.1 Evolving Profession The face of mechanical engineering has significantly been changed due to the explosive development as well as expansion in the computer technology. The CAD (computer-aided-design) has replaced the drawing board, and other computational software tools which are sophisticated have made it possible for mechanical engineers to efficiently come up with solutions to complex technical problems. For instance, the emergence of high-tech nanotechnology has made it possible for mechanical engineers to produce tiny implantable medical devices and ultra-miniature machines which are used to search for damaged tissues as well as disease by navigating the human body. Furthermore, the growing concern of the quality of life for the posterity and the deteriorating nature of the planet have pushed the mechanical engineers further to continue the designing of products which are resource efficient and recyclable in addition to developing processes and equipment for cleaning up the existing environmental problems as well as to prevent the possibility of their recurrence. These numerous technologies will go a long way in impacting positively in the lives of humans in the 21st century, albeit creative ability and intuition of mechanical engineers are the skills necessary for their development and refinement. However, it is expected of mechanical engineers to understand and convey the possible consequences of the development of such technologies to the decision makers and the public. 2.1.2 Training for a Career in Mechanical Engineering For one to become a mechanical engineer, it is necessary to have specific skills. The necessary skills are acquired not only through education, but also through training and experience. It is a must for students to enroll in certain courses when they in high school. These courses prepare them for acceptance and admission at the university or college for engineering programs. It is critical to have a strong foundation in mathematics, science as well as the language arts. Solid preparation in mathematics includes algebra, calculus, geometry and trigonometry. On the other hand, the basis for science foundation includes preparation in chemistry, physics and biology. Communications, both oral and written, is also very important for a successful mechanical engineering studies. Furthermore, courses involving mechanical or computer-aided drawing/drafting as well as other subjects which are related to technology can assist the student in understanding the important practicalities involved in technological projects. In order to enhance their studies as well as to enrich their overall learning experience, students are encouraged to participate in science and technology fairs, symposia and design competitions, by joining career groups and clubs that are devoted to science and engineering. In order to enhance their studies as well as to enrich their overall learning experience, students are encouraged to enter science and technology fairs, symposia, and design competitions by joining career groups and clubs which are devoted to science and technology. There are clubs which are known to sponsor day trips and excursions to laboratories, companies and industrial facilities, which enable them to interact with engineers in real work environments. 2.1.3 College for the Mechanical Engineering Student Although programs for mechanical engineering may vary in particular detail and content, there is a common educational philosophy linking all of them. The programs entails education which is having a broad based and a concentration on basic and fundamental laws as the key tool necessary for practicing mechanical engineering as a profession. It is expected of the graduates to be able to work professionally, both in teams and as individuals, in mechanical and thermal areas, which include the designing, manufacturing and controlling of those systems. It is further expected of them to understand the societal, legal and ethical implications of their work. Just like in high school, the fundamental language of engineering program is mathematics. Further integrated experiences are gained by the students in the laboratory, computer and design. Synthesis, computer applications as well as problem solving are emphasized by design experience. Other important elements in the programs include teamwork, communications as well as practical hands-on experience involving different product design process. Further exposure to engineering practice is gained through internships, participation in ASME Student Section activities as well as coop semester activities. In the United States, students who are interested in pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering for seek for a college curriculum that is accredited by Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (abbreviated as ABET). In countries such as Australia, a student should look toward university or polytechnic programs that are recognized the both the professional organization of mechanical engineering and the governmental education authorities in that country. 2.1.4 Where Mechanical Engineers Work Mechanical engineering is one of the careers with strong employment prospects, particularly in places with growing local economies. Mechanical engineers have been known to contribute substantially in industrial sectors such as automotive, aerospace, construction, computer and electronics, chemical, consumer products, engineering consulting, energy and government. Other exciting opportunities for mechanical engineers to contribute in life science are available in the pharmaceutical and medical fields. Furthermore, mechanical engineers are heavily relied upon in the entertainment industry for special effects as well as the amusement park equipment. Most of such work is carried out in numerous companies ranging from small, local firms to large multinational firms. Responsibilities and job functions include systems design, product and production design engineering, quality control, project management, and power plant operations. Mechanical engineers can also move into legal or management positions that build upon their technical and scientific skills and expertise if they further their education or gain more experience. Other mechanical engineers, armed with further education and experience, can move into legal or management positions that require their technical and scientific expertise and skills. Scholarly research and teaching paths are also open for others. It is thus clear that mechanical engineer has a diverse work, with a career which requires continuous learning. In summary areas of employment for mechanical engineers include: 1. Industries including: Automotive, aerospace, electronics, chemical products, petroleum, textiles, industrial equipment, heating and air conditioning systems 2. Utility companies 3. National laboratories 4. Federal government: 5. Department of Energy 6. Department of Defense 7. Federal Aviation Administration 8. National Aeronautics and Space Administration 2.2 Biomedical Engineering Figure 2: a biomedical engineer 2.2.1 Suitability of biomedical engineering Biomedical engineers apply their expertise in engineering science, mathematics, physics, biology, medicine and communication to ensure that the world is made a healthier place. A university degree in biomedical engineering is necessary for preparing an individual for professions such as engineer, doctor, lawyer, scientist, teacher, manager, salesperson among others. Various challenges that are created by complexity and diversity of living systems make it necessary to have knowledgeable, creative and imaginative individuals to work in teams of engineers, scientists, physicians, and even business people in order to enhance, monitor and restore the normal function of the body. Biomedical engineers are trained ideally to work at the intersection of mathematics, medicine and science to solve medical and other biological problems. 2.2.2 Responsibilities of biomedical engineers Areas in which biomedical engineers work include but not limited tohospitals, government agencies, industries and academic institutions. Their work may include the designing of electrical circuits and computer software to be used for medical instrumentation. The medical instruments may include systems such as magnetic resonance imaging, convectional x-ray, computer-enhanced three-dimensional x-ray (also referred to as computerized tomography), drug infusion pumps, pacemakers and cochlear implants. Biomedical engineers apply mathematics models, physics, and chemistry as well as computer simulation to design and develop a new drug therapy. Moreover, a considerable number of advances which have assisted in the understanding of the work of biological systems and how the body functions are attributed to biomedical engineers. They also apply statistics and mathematical models in the study of numerous signals that are generated by the body organs including the skeletal muscles, heart and even brain. The building of artificial organs, heart valves, dental implants, limbs, hips, knees, to replace lost function in addition to the growing of living tissues in order to take the place of failing organs are among the many contributions of biomedical engineers in medicine and biology. The application of both chemistry and physics are necessary for biomedical engineers when they are developing the artificial body parts because they need to develop materials which are not only durable but also compatible with the biological environment. Biomedical engineers are also designing and developing wireless technology which can enable the doctors and patients to communicate over long distances. They are also greatly involved in the rehabilitation of patients by designing and developing improved walkers, equipment for exercise, therapeutic devices as well as robots in order to improve the performance of human. Biomedical engineers also solve problems at molecular and cellular level, designing and developing micro-machines and nanotechnology so as to alter gene function and to repair damage inside the cells. Biomedical engineers are also tasked with the designing and development of three-dimensional simulations which apply physics law to fluids and tissues movements. If successful, such a model can be invaluable in broadening the understanding of tissues functions as well as how, for instance, a prosthetic replacement might function under exactly the same conditions. Other biomedical engineers may offer solutions to biomedical problems when working as physical therapists, physicians, professors, business managers, teachers, patent attorneys, technical writers and research scientist. Although these careers may need further training that goes beyond a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, biomedical engineers may find them to be appropriate careers. In some situations, it is a possible for mechanical, computer, electrical, or other types of engineers to face problems that should ideally be solved by biomedical engineers. This may make them to develop much expertise related to biomedical engineering over the years that they may also be considered as biomedical engineers. 2.2.3 Difference between biomedical engineers differ and other engineers It is a must for biomedical engineers to integrate engineering with both biology and medicine to offer solutions to problems that are related to living systems. Hence, biomedical engineers need to have a solid foundation in other “traditional” engineering disciplines including chemical, mechanical and electrical engineering. It is therefore necessary for the students undertaking undergraduate programs in biomedical engineering to take a core curriculum of these “traditional” engineering courses. Furthermore, it is expected of biomedical engineers to integrate their engineering skills with other skills and understanding of the complex biological systems so as to improve medical practice. Hence, it is necessary to train the biomedical engineers in life sciences as well. 2.2.4 Education required for biomedical engineering A bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering typically needs a minimum of four years of university education. After the completion of the bachelor’s degree, the biomedical engineer may choose to enter level engineering position in a clinical engineering position in a hospital, a pharmaceutical or medical device company, or a sales person for a biotechnology or biomaterials company. Most of the biomedical engineers usually seek graduate level training in biomedical engineering or related engineering fields. Greater opportunities are open in research and development for biomedical engineers with a Master’s or Doctorate degree, and such opportunities may be available in but not limited to industrial, government or academic settings. Other biomedical engineers may choose to better their education by pursuing another bachelor’s degree in business in order to acquire the necessary skills for running business or managing healthcare technology for a hospital. It is also a common occurrence for biomedical engineers to further their education in medical or dental school once they are through with their bachelor’s degree. Other biomedical engineers may choose to enter law school, with plans to work with patent law as well as intellectual property that are related to biomedical inventions. 2.2.5 High school education for studies in biomedical engineering High school students are prepared for possible career in biomedical engineering by being trained in chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, communication, problem-solving, teamwork and engineering design. For the best preparation for a future biomedical engineering program in college, it is necessary for a high school student to take a well-rounded course of study. At least a year in each of the sciences including biology, chemistry and physics is required, although advanced courses in any of the three is additional advantage. It is also necessary to study algebra, calculus, geometry and trigonometry. A computer programming course is also necessary for students interested in biomedical engineering programs because it offers the student advantage in their college program. It is also advisable for a student to register a mechanical drawing or drafting course as an elective unit/subject. Four years of English and composition, a course in speech, several years of social studies and history as well as foreign languages. It is important for a biomedical engineer to be able to communicate in at least another language so as to improve healthcare globally. 2.2.6 University courses for biomedical engineering Design is one of the most important biomedical engineering activities. Biomedical engineers require a solid foundation in mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, engineering and humanities in order to design. Although it is the case that the curriculum of biomedical engineering varies from one university to another, most of the programs need solid foundation and courses in biology and physiology, organic and inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, general physics, statics and dynamics, thermodynamics and transport phenomenon, electronic circuits and instrumentation design, signals and systems, engineering design, and biomaterials. Furthermore, students take various advanced engineering and science courses that are specifically related to their area of specialty in biomedical engineering. Among the common specialties include biomaterials, biomechanics, bioelectronics, biological signal processing, telemedicine, robotic aided surgery, physiologic systems, rehabilitation engineering, clinical engineering, and virtual reality. Other specialties which are relatively new include neural engineering, cellular and tissue engineering, bioinformatics and bio-computing. Many science and engineering courses incorporate laboratory experience so as to expose student to hands on, real world applications. Other courses such as English, ethics, technical writing, and humanities (which include history, sociology, philosophy, psychology, political science, anthropology and literature) are usually added to the engineering and science courses. Students may also further heir studies in foreign language to increase the possibility of getting internships or permanent engineering jobs in foreign countries. Students who are interested in engineering management may also opt for business courses. Overseas exchange programs which runs for about six months is encouraged by many Universities to enable the students to acquire biomedical engineering curriculum as taught in foreign universities. 2.2.7 Practical experience during training for biomedical engineering It is a common practice in most universities to offer biomedical engineering students opportunities to gain hands-on real-world experience before their graduation. Medical designs and pharmaceutical companies are the common industries where students are sent for summer internships. The students can also gain research experiences at government agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and academic institutions. Formal cooperative training programs are also offered by some universities. This involves allowing the student to spend several semesters working at a hospital or biomedical company, where they earn both salary and academic credit. Those hands-on, real-world experiences go a long way in helping the students to explore various career options as well as in better defining their specific roles in biomedical engineering community. 2.2.8 Key areas of biomedical engineering Bioinformatics involves the development and application of computer tools in the collection and analysis of data related to medicine and biology. This involves the use of sophisticated techniques for managing and searching databases of gene sequences having millions of entries. BioMEMS Microelectromechanical systems (abbreviated as MEMS) are the integration of mechanical elements, electronics, sensors, and actuators on a silicon chip. Recent development and uses of MEMS in medicine and biology is what is referred to as BioMEMS. Examples include works include microrobots with the ability to perform surgery in the body (still under development) and the manufacturing of tiny devices which may be implanted inside the body to deliver drugs when demanded by the body. Biomechanics involves the application of mechanics to biology such as the study of motion, fluid flow, and material deformation. For instance, studies of fluid dynamics associated with the circulation of blood have led to the development of artificial hearts whereas designing of the prosthetic limbs borrows a lot from joint mechanics. 2.3 Civil engineering Figure 3: civil engineers at work Civil engineering is considered to be one of the oldest and largest branches of engineering. It is the traditional responsibility of planning and designing of things such as dams, reads, bridges, airports, high rises. In recent years, civil engineering has evolved and encompass much more. Civil engineering is recommended for individuals who are interested in solving energy crisis, cleaning up the environment, as well as in helping people to access clean water, healthy food and stable infrastructure. There is close connection between civil engineering and the environment, both human made and natural. 2.3.1Basic Requirements Just like in any other engineering, for one to become a civil engineer, it is necessary to have specific skills. The necessary skills are acquired through education and training as well as experience. It is a must for students to enroll in certain courses when they in high school. These courses prepare them for acceptance and admission at the university or college for engineering programs. It is critical to have a strong foundation in mathematics, science as well as the language arts. Solid preparation in mathematics includes algebra, calculus, geometry and trigonometry. On the other hand, the basis for science foundation includes preparation in chemistry, physics and biology. Communications, both oral and written, is also very important for a successful mechanical engineering studies. It is also important to have a degree in Civil engineering as well as to pass Fundamentals of Engineering (abbreviated as FE) Exam as soon as one is eligible. For one to advance in civil engineering, work experience is very important in addition to Licensure as a professional engineer. Advance degree and advanced credentials are appropriate as well as continued professional development. 2.3.2 Career path in civil engineering Entry level engineering ↙ ↘ Project engineer/technical expertise technical sales/marketing/consulting ↓ ↓ Project engineer/facilities management accountant manager/implementation engineer ↓ ↓ Program and portfolio management Business development/management ↓ ↙ Operations/divisions manager ↘ Executive senior management 2.4 Earnings There is a significant variation in the earnings of engineers based on specialty, education and industry. The table below summarizes data on earnings for engineers. Conclusion; All factors having been considered, I find myself opting for biomedical engineering. This is because it is combines my long lasting dream to be an engineer but it also opens up the opportunity to save life in hospitals, which I also have a great passion for. References Echaore-McDavid, S., & McDavid, R. A. (2006). Engineering. 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