Engineers play a key role in practically everything we do. From cars to cellphones to the internet to coffee machines, none of it would be possible without the knowledge and hard work of engineers all over the world.
Some fields in engineering are becoming more important than ever, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, increased digitalization and new ways of travelling. This is creating more demand for certain engineering jobs, so we rounded up the top 5 engineering professions that are likely to see growth in 2021 and beyond.
Systems engineer
One area of engineering that has become essential during the COVID-19 pandemic is systems engineering. A systems engineer is mainly responsible for managing and maintaining a company or organization’s technical infrastructure. This includes keeping software and hardware up to date, identifying new technologies that could improve the way a company works, and staying informed on industry best practices regarding things like data management and cybersecurity.
Systems engineers also use a wide range of soft skills, as communicating with coworkers and decision-makers that may not be very tech-savvy is a regular part of the job. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are a couple of the most sought-after soft skills for systems engineering positions.
Electrical engineer
Electrical engineers are vital for almost any manufacturing process as industries become increasingly industrialized and machine-reliant, meaning they have become one of the driving forces behind innovation in many industries. Electrical engineers create, install and maintain electrical machinery and systems ranging from motors to communications systems to machines on factory floors. Depending on their area of expertise, they may also be involved in the development of new products like satellite services, smartphones or cars.
Biomedical engineer
Biomedical engineering is on the rise as it has become a cornerstone of public health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Biomedical engineers are multidiscipline professionals, combining engineering principles with medical and biological science to advance technology related to equipment, software and computer hardware in the healthcare and scientific research industries. Everyday responsibilities for biomedical engineers include installing and maintaining biomedical equipment and machinery, as well as training medical professionals or laboratory workers on how to use new equipment.
Aerospace engineer
With a recent global push towards space exploration and a possible colony on Mars in the next decade or two, aerospace engineering is becoming more attractive by the day! Aerospace engineers design, develop, and build spacecraft, satellites, missiles, rockets, and aircraft for a variety of industries. These professionals have a strong understanding of the different principles that affect the projects and tasks that they carry out on a daily basis and often work very closely with electrical engineers and physicists as part of a team. Solid knowledge in analytics, math, physics, technology, and similar capabilities is a must for any aerospace engineer.
Environmental engineer
Most companies and governments are now focusing on effective and innovative ways to protect the environment and adopt more eco-friendly ways of operating. This has created a demand for environmental engineers, who develop ways to implement engineering in efforts to lower our carbon footprint and generate less waste. Environmental engineers link engineering with knowledge of biology, chemistry and physics to tackle problems like pollution, waste management, fuel efficiency, recycling and even oil spills. They sometimes oversee projects that are either aimed at having a positive impact on the environment or could damage the environment if not carried out correctly. These include things like construction, industrial operations, compliance with environmental policy and regulation, and harmful waste disposal.
Check out the rest of our blog for more insider information on upcoming trends in engineering and other professions, as well as insider tips to take the next step in your career!