• Question: would you recommend a more hands on job in the engineering industry

    Asked by kingfij02 to Ryan, Nadine, Matt, Emma, Daniel, Allanah on 11 Jun 2019.
    • Photo: Daniel Wye

      Daniel Wye answered on 11 Jun 2019:

      It entirely depends on what you enjoy and what you are best at. There are many opportunities for both office based and workshop based engineering roles and many cover both elements in one role. I think that it’s good to have had hands on experience before transitioning into a management role as it gives you a better understanding of the physical aspects of an engineering project and helps you to make effective decisions.

    • Photo: Allanah Green

      Allanah Green answered on 11 Jun 2019:

      I think it totally depends on the person and their preference. You should do something you have a passion and drive for. There is also no harm trying different engineering roles to see what you are best suited for.

      I am quite lucky as i do have the option to try both office and field based engineering – so far im 50/50 with what my preference is.

    • Photo: Matt Keith

      Matt Keith answered on 11 Jun 2019:

      Definitely depends on what you enjoy doing! Some people like theoretical aspects and using a computer, some people prefer more hands on work. From a chemical engineering perspective, this is the difference between designing a process or actually operating it and doing the repair work. My advice would be to have a go at both, and see which one you like.

    • Photo: Ryan Smith

      Ryan Smith answered on 11 Jun 2019:

      Depends on who you are. I prefer a 50/50 split between hands on and office work. Some only ever want to be making things, others prefer to just design things, either is fine. The only way to fond out is to do it, get out there and try both. Get a summer job at an engineering firm, there are plenty out there.

    • Photo: Nadine Priestman

      Nadine Priestman answered on 13 Jun 2019:

      I suggest when you do your work experience try to find an engineering company that offers both hands on and office work,then you have the chance to try both. Alternatively, apply for an apprenticeship where to begin with you will spend time in a learning about what the company can offer you and then you will be able to go on rotation in different areas which will give you hands on and office experience. Then you can decide which type of work you prefer.

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