How to Add Skills as a Young Engineering Professional

Daniel Dahlinger

(yes it’s more than just yet another free ad for Toastmasters)

Professional development is a crucial aspect of any engineering career. It’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and innovations, as well as to continuously build your skills and knowledge to advance in your career. One way to pursue professional development is by seeking out various organizations and resources that offer opportunities for growth and learning. Below are some examples of resources that can help young professionals in engineering to build their careers.

Professional engineering associations are one of the most popular and comprehensive resources for professional development in the engineering industry. There are many professional organizations that cater to specific engineering disciplines, such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). These organizations offer a wide range of resources and opportunities for professional development, such as conferences, webinars, and technical publications. Being a member of one or more of these organizations can help young professionals to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in their field, as well as network with other professionals in their industry.

Continuing education courses are another valuable resource for engineers seeking professional development opportunities. Many universities and colleges offer continuing education courses for engineers to build their skills and knowledge in specific areas. These courses can be taken online or in person, and can range from short workshops to more in-depth certificate programs. Examples of online platforms that offer engineering courses include Coursera, EdX, and MIT OpenCourseWare.

Industry certifications are also important for young professionals looking to advance in their careers. Certifications such as the Professional Engineer (PE) license, which is required for engineers who work on projects that directly impact public health and safety, demonstrate expertise in specific areas of engineering. Other certifications, such as the Certified Energy Manager (CEM) or the LEED Green Associate, can demonstrate proficiency in energy management or sustainable design practices. Achieving industry certifications can help young professionals stand out from their peers and advance in their careers.

Toastmasters is a non-profit organization that helps people improve their public speaking and leadership skills through a network of local clubs. Participating in Toastmasters can help engineers develop their communication skills and build confidence when presenting their ideas or proposals to colleagues, clients, or stakeholders. Effective communication is critical for success in any career, and Toastmasters provides a supportive environment for individuals to develop their public speaking and leadership abilities.

In addition to these resources, many employers offer professional development opportunities for their employees, such as training programs, tuition reimbursement, and mentorship programs. It’s important for young professionals to take advantage of these opportunities and continuously invest in their professional growth and development. By pursuing professional development, engineers can not only improve their skills and knowledge, but also increase their value to their employers and advance in their careers.

In conclusion, pursuing professional development is essential for any engineering career. There are many different resources and opportunities available, including professional organizations, continuing education courses, industry certifications, and Toastmasters. By continuously building your skills and knowledge, you can advance in your career and make a greater impact in the engineering industry.

Interested to learn more? Links to all the organizations mentioned above here: