What Are the Alternative Careers for ME PhD Holders?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on alternative career paths for individuals holding a D.Sc in Mechanical Engineering who wish to transition out of engineering. Key options highlighted include patent law, finance (investment banking), and consulting. Participants emphasize the importance of exploring various engineering roles before making a definitive career change, suggesting that the day-to-day work may differ significantly from academic experiences. Additionally, the conversation encourages self-reflection on personal interests and skills to identify suitable career alternatives such as management, technical sales, or technical writing.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of patent law and the requirements for a qualifying law degree.
  • Familiarity with investment banking and its career pathways.
  • Knowledge of consulting roles and their relevance to engineering backgrounds.
  • Awareness of technical writing and its applications in engineering contexts.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the process of transitioning from engineering to patent law, including necessary qualifications.
  • Explore career opportunities in investment banking specifically for STEM PhD holders.
  • Investigate consulting firms that value engineering expertise, particularly in accident investigation.
  • Learn about technical writing certifications and how they can enhance employability in non-engineering fields.
USEFUL FOR

Individuals with a D.Sc in Mechanical Engineering considering a career change, professionals exploring non-engineering roles, and anyone interested in leveraging their STEM background in fields like law, finance, or consulting.

Juhna89
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Hello,

I am having bit of a dilemma. I am about to finish a D.Sc in mechanical engineering. However, I've never liked engineering and now I am looking to get out of the field.
I know that patent law, finance (IB) and consulting are popular among stem PhD holders and currently I am aiming for patent law and studying for a qualifying law degree on the side. However, I would like hear if there are some other options out there.
 
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Juhna89 said:
I am having bit of a I am about to finish a D.Sc in mechanical engineering. However, I've never liked engineering and now I am looking to get out of the field.
I find it hard to believe that you are completing a doctorate yet never liked engineering. Are you sure you're just not undergoing classic grad school burnout and depression? You've come so far, and it would be a shame to give it up when the end is finally near. Perhaps a vacation to clear your head would be in order, before you decide to ditch a potential career in engineering.
 
The day to day of a lot of engineering jobs can be much different from the educational experience. I'd give them a closer look before jumping ship. At some point in the interview process, spend some time with engineers working in jobs close to the one you are applying for without their bosses around and ask them what it is really like. Focus on areas of concern and dislike and find how much of the 40 hour week is stuff you don't like vs. stuff you do like.
 
There are a lot of other options out there. The thing is though, it might help to sit down and figure out what you like and want to do first. "Engineering" can actually be pretty broad in scope. If you don't like the analytical aspects, maybe you'd be more interested in management, or technical sales, or technical writing. I met a mechanical engineer the other day who worked for a consulting company that investigates motor vehicle accidents. They inspect crash sites, and write reports for lawyers and claims adjusters.
 

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