The Job Description and Qualifications of a Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineering is all about designing, building, installing, maintaining and troubleshooting machines of all sizes and types. And mechanical engineers most likely assume entry-level jobs in the areas of

• Tool designing
• Machine shop operations
• Computer numerical control programming
• Equipment designing, building and testing
• Facilities planning and scheduling
• Plant expansion and layout planning
• Quality control systems development
• Job safety programs preparation
• Manuals preparation
• Material selection for machine/tool building
• Machine troubleshooting
• Machine installation
• Performance evaluation of machines
• Customer services
• Technical sales

The mechanical engineers are prepared to develop solutions, resolve problems, and ensure smooth operations in a variety of settings. They may be associated with companies in diverse industries, including but not limited to, mechanical, oil and gas, automobile, biomedical, nuclear, energy, aeronautical, marine, aerospace, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, electronics, metals, defence, construction and utilities.

Need for Formal Education and Training

Mechanical engineering in considered to be the most diverse among all engineering disciplines. This is why mechanical engineers can find employment in diverse industrial sectors. For the past few years the professionals have been enjoying an explosion of expanded opportunities. The reason is that the companies became more automated and dependent on computer control machines. This broadened the career prospects for mechanical engineers.

However, this calls for the need to adapt to and keep up with the continuous evolving technological and mechanical environment. Moreover, the professionals are expected to possess critical skills required to analyze existing mechanical systems for possible improvements, interpret design schematics, and design and develop new devices intended to solve problems in specific industries.

Besides this, they are expected to be comfortable in installing, maintaining and troubleshooting the existing and newly developed machinery. As their job is multi-faceted, they must also possess strong technical writing skills to help prepare product manuals and communication skills to deal with the customers.

A program in mechanical engineering- industrial can lead prospective professionals on the right career path, helping them learn engineering theory and practice in the manufacturing and production of mechanical equipment. They study basic engineering science as well as more specialized subjects related to modern manufacturing and production processes.

Mechanical Engineering Courses in Canada

A number of colleges in Canada offer post-secondary mechanical engineering courses. Unfortunately, not all are nationally accredited. Centennial College's mechanical engineering technology - industrial (PTY) is CTAB accredited program. It also meets the national technology accreditation requirements established by the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists (CCTT).

The three-year post-secondary mechanical engineering courses combines classroom learning, a design and construction project, computer-assisted drafting and manufacturing, two individual projects, an actual workplace assignment through field placement and three terms of paid employment.

The program lays a strong emphasis on mechanical drafting, thermodynamics, and CNC programming, design and construction, hydraulics and pneumatics and tool design.

Enrolment Guide

In order to apply for this program, you will need:

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent
• English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent
• Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent

Students currently in high school can also apply for this program. Their midterm and final term grades will be automatically transmitted to the college.