How to make it big in engineering

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of success in the field of engineering. Participants explore various criteria that could define a successful engineer, including personal achievements, contributions to society, and financial success. The conversation touches on both subjective interpretations of success and practical milestones in an engineering career.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that success could be defined by coming up with significant inventions or inspiring the younger generation.
  • Others argue that success is subjective and may not align with traditional measures of achievement.
  • One participant proposes that making a lot of money, helping many people, and effectively collaborating in teams are key indicators of success.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes the importance of obtaining a degree, gaining work experience, and acquiring a professional engineering license as essential steps toward being considered a successful engineer.
  • Another participant notes that while a professional engineer's salary is generally good, it may not equate to "making it big" in a broader sense.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions on what constitutes success in engineering, indicating that there is no consensus on a singular definition. Multiple competing views remain regarding the criteria for success.

Contextual Notes

Participants' definitions of success appear to depend on personal values and career aspirations, highlighting the subjective nature of the topic. There are also varying assumptions about what "making it big" entails.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to aspiring engineers, educators in engineering fields, and professionals considering their career paths and definitions of success.

justinlj
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just wondering how u guys consider if an engineer is successful or not?

for example,

- come up with the next big invention in technology?
- inspire the younger generation with your area of work?
- make meaningful contribution to the society?
- setting up a successful tech/engineering company?
- do consulting?
 
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How to make it 'big'? It isn't showbusiness.

'Success' is purely subjective.
 
well you could in my opinion you could "make it big" by

a) making a lot of $$,

b) helping a lot of people

c)effectively work in a team to overcome obstacles that could not otherwise be solved
 
I would consider all of the things you listed as things that would make an engineer successful. I am working towards becoming an engineer eventually.

In my opinion being a successful engineer would be getting your degree, then the proper work experience and obtaining a P.Eng license. Then you can actually call yourself an engineer. After that I would consider one a successful engineer if they are holding a position in the field of engineering and making enough money to support oneself or a family.

If you want to make it "big" you better start working hard now and probably launch your own company. On average a professional engineers salary is usually pretty damn good but I wouldn't consider it "making it big".
 

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