What Major Can Compliment My Interests in Renewable Energy and Robotics?

In summary, the speaker is a sophomore in college majoring in Material Science Engineering and Mechanical Engineering with the goal of working in Robotics and/or Renewable Energy. However, they are now unsure about their major due to concerns about potential career paths in material science. They are seeking suggestions for a major that would complement their interests and skills, as well as seeking clarification about the field from someone with knowledge in material science. The suggested major is Electrical Engineering, which would cover areas such as solar cells and robotics.
  • #1
Big Stu
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I am a sophmore in college and I am currently majoring in Material Science Engineering and Mechanical Engineering. I want to some day hopefully work with either Robotics and/or Renewable Energy. I want to get a good combination of Mechanical, Chemistry, Electronics, computers, and basic engineering principles this why I majored in these two. However, now I am not sure about this major because most people who work with materials end up in metallurgy and processing and I do not want to do that.

Do any of you guys have an idea for a major that will compliment my needs?
Also does it have anyone who studies material science that could give me any clarification about the field and what it has to offer?
 
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  • #2
Electrical engineering. Solar cells fall under the realm of semiconductor physics/devices, and robotics (and automation) is second nature to electrical engineers (probably more so for those in automation/control/embedded processes).
 

What is renewable energy?

Renewable energy is energy that is collected from renewable resources, which are naturally replenished on a human timescale, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, waves, and geothermal heat. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and contribute to climate change, renewable energy sources can be used indefinitely without causing harm to the environment.

How can robotics be used in the renewable energy industry?

Robotics can be used in the renewable energy industry in a variety of ways. They can be used to automate and optimize processes in renewable energy production, such as assembling solar panels or maintaining wind turbines. They can also be used for inspection and maintenance of renewable energy systems, reducing the need for human workers to perform dangerous tasks in harsh environments.

What are the advantages of using renewable energy and robotics together?

The combination of renewable energy and robotics offers several advantages. It can increase efficiency and productivity in renewable energy production, reduce costs and risks associated with human labor, and decrease the environmental impact of energy production. Additionally, using robotics in renewable energy production can create new job opportunities in the field of robotics.

What are the current challenges in implementing renewable energy and robotics?

One of the main challenges in implementing renewable energy and robotics is the initial investment cost. While renewable energy sources have become more cost-competitive in recent years, the cost of implementing robotics technology can still be high. Additionally, there may be technical challenges in integrating robotics into renewable energy systems and ensuring their reliability and safety.

What is the future outlook for renewable energy and robotics?

The future outlook for renewable energy and robotics is promising. As technology advances and becomes more affordable, we can expect to see an increase in the use of robotics in renewable energy production. This will lead to greater efficiency, productivity, and safety in the industry, as well as contribute to the growth of the renewable energy sector as a whole.

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