Job growth in engineering management without PhD?

[iLIKEstuff]

So I recently took a job in R&D right out of my Master's program (in electrical engineering). When I was interviewing at the company, I quickly realized that everyone was "Dr. so-and-so". I actually did not interview with a single person that did not have a PhD out of 8 people (except for the HR person).

Now I realize that someone with an MS can eventually become an engineering manager after many years of experience, but surely 3-4 years of experience with an MS will not offset a PhD, especially once this person has worked for 10+ years, i.e., MS + 14 years experience $$\neq$$ PhD + 10 years experience, in terms of job growth.

So if my plan is to get into engineering management, because they make lots of money, should I have stayed for my PhD?

What are some other career paths for an MS with experience in R&D, which also make lots of money?

and how tough is it to get an engineering management position without a PhD?

Thanks for your thoughts.

A similar question was asked about a year ago, but was not followed up: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=391138

 

[phyzguy]

My experience, with a couple of decades experience in the electrical engineering industry, is that most engineering managers do not have a PhD. I don't think the lack of a PhD will hurt you in industry, and in fact, getting into the work environment more quickly will definitely help your career. Don't worry about it - make yourself valuable to the company as quickly as you can and you will probably be rewarded.

 

[twofish-quant]

Now I realize that someone with an MS can eventually become an engineering manager after many years of experience, but surely 3-4 years of experience with an MS will not offset a PhD, especially once this person has worked for 10+ years, i.e., MS + 14 years experience $$\neq$$ PhD + 10 years experience, in terms of job growth.

This is very, very company dependent.

So if my plan is to get into engineering management, because they make lots of money, should I have stayed for my PhD?

Don't ever get a Ph.D. for purely career reasons, it isn't worth it.

Engineering managers may or may not make lots of money. I've known some high tech companies in which the managers make less money than the people that they manage.

 

[AlephZero]

Apparently, you are in a company where people have a high regard for status symbols.

In the (large multinational) company I work for, titles like "Dr" are explicitly prohibited on all internal documents, name tags, office doors, etc. What matters is what you can do, not what bits of paper you have collected.

(Well, that's true except in the German offices, where people who have sat at adjacent desks for 20 years still call each other "Herr Dr. Ing. X" rather than "Hans" or "Klaus".)

 

[Matrix0]

I would say that while a PhD certainly opens up more opportunities in the field of engineering management, it is not a requirement for success in this role. Many successful engineering managers have a Master's degree and years of experience in the industry.

In terms of job growth, it is important to remember that a PhD is not the only factor that contributes to career advancement. Experience, skills, and leadership abilities are also crucial in climbing the ladder in engineering management. While a PhD may give someone an initial advantage, it is not a guarantee of success or job growth in the long term.

There are definitely other career paths for someone with an MS and experience in R&D. Some options could include technical project management, product management, or even starting your own company. These roles may also offer opportunities for career growth and higher salaries.

In terms of getting an engineering management position without a PhD, it may be more challenging but not impossible. It may require networking, showcasing your skills and experience, and continuously seeking out new opportunities. Additionally, gaining certifications or taking courses in management and leadership may also help in demonstrating your qualifications for the role.

Overall, while a PhD may offer some advantages in the field of engineering management, it is not the only path to success. With dedication, hard work, and continuous learning, there are many opportunities for career growth and success in this field without a PhD.