Being expert Vs gaining overall system knowledge

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The discussion centers on a career decision faced by an engineering analyst at a multinational firm, weighing the benefits of specializing in aeromechanics versus gaining broader system-level knowledge through rotations in various teams. The individual is contemplating whether to deepen expertise in a specific area or to acquire a comprehensive understanding of how different components and teams interact within the organization. A key point raised is that specialists may find it easier to transition into generalist roles compared to generalists moving into specialized positions. The rationale behind this is that specialized knowledge can provide a strong foundation for understanding broader concepts, while generalists may lack the depth required for specific technical roles. The conversation invites further exploration of this dynamic in career development.
koolraj09
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Hi all.
So I am working for a multinational firm doing an engineering analysis job. I have two options in for my career. My career started as an analyst and till some point of time, I guess it would be the same until after some years I would be going for maybe some leadership positions.
So there's this question that bothers me right now: I have opportunities to explore and work on projects with various teams related or non-related to my specific (future)work. So, should I select a path, say aeromechanics engineer and explore rotations in teams with this specific work profile so as to be tending to be an expert in this type of analysis/component ownership or should I go to get the overall system knowledge of how other teams (carrying out non related analysis, to me as of now) and gain an overall system level understanding how things work together, not getting into the very nitty-gritty, but so as to have enough knowledge so that after some time, I can grow much faster since I have system level knowledge and not many people have it?
 
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I had this same question, and the answer I got was that a specialist can much more easily move into a more generalist position than the vice versa.
 
Thanks Shaun!
Can you please elaborate more the reason as to why this happens?
 

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