30 Mechanical Engineering Skills you need to learn now to kick start your career (Technical and Soft skills)

If you don’t love something you won’t go the extra mile – Steve Jobs

Check out this informative YouTube video about developing useful skills!

Mechanical engineering skills we can all rely on

Here’s a question that we can really get stuck into and get some tangible answers (with sources), let’s explore the 30 essential Mechanical engineering skills that every mechanical engineer should develop for a successful and rewarding career. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to refine your abilities or a budding engineer eager to learn, this guide is tailored for you.

So, I’ve been thinking about this for about a month, and I wanted to add my 2 cents as a Chartered Engineer, passing on the pearls of wisdom to the next in line, so diving into research I present to you the 30 skills (technical and soft) that I believe a mechanical (or any engineer) should develop.

While I could go into each skill, I’ve found sites that really go in depth for you to read up and bookmark, enjoy!

Soft mechanical engineering skills:

Communication Skills (Interpersonal, Group Talking, Presentation)
- Importance in project discussions, client interactions, and team collaborations.
- Source: https://www.indeed.com/
Problem Solving
- Emphasizing the role of critical thinking in addressing engineering challenges.
- Source: https://www.linkedin.com/
Leadership
- How leadership skills contribute to effective project management.
- Source: leadership-skills
Teamwork
- Discussing the collaborative nature of engineering projects.
- Source: https://your.yale.edu/
Critical Thinking (First Principles)
- Applying first principles thinking in engineering problem-solving.
- Source: the-importance-of-critical-thinking
Optimization
- Integrating optimization techniques for efficient engineering solutions.
- Source: why-optimization-important-techniques-big-data-varun-pandian
Attention to Detail (Adaptable/Resilient)
- The role of precision and adaptability in project execution.
- Source: why-attention-detail-important-natasha-barker-oly
Writing Technical Reports
- Enhancing communication through clear and concise technical writing.
- Source: academic-skills
Budgeting (Costing, ROI)
- Managing project finances and understanding return on investment.
- Source: importance-of-budgeting-in-business
Innovative Thinking
- Encouraging engineers to explore new approaches.
- Source: importance-creative-thinking-our-life-tonderai-giftrice-magaya
Time Management
- Ensuring efficient project timelines.
- Source: the-power-of-effective-time-management
Active Learning
- Continuous learning for staying updated in the dynamic field of engineering.
- Source: active-learning

Technical mechanical engineering skills:

Creativity in Engineering (Technical)
- Leveraging creativity in technical aspects.
- Source: Unit_1:_Creativity_and_its_Importance_in_Engineering
Project Management (Critical Path Analysis)
- Utilizing project management tools for efficient execution.
- Source: importance-project-management-engineering-bilal-malik
Mathematical Skills (Calculus, Algebra, Statistics, Geometry, Trigonometry)
- The foundation of engineering calculations.
- Source: maths-need-engineer-15155.html
CAD (2/3D) and FEA
- The role of computer-aided design and analysis.
- Source: importance-cad-modeling-mechanical-engineers-gurusamy
Coding (VBA, Python)
- Integrating programming skills in engineering tasks.
- Source: importance-coding-mechanical-engineering-yash-mitra
Drawing/Designing (Geometric Tolerances, BS 8888, DFMEA)
- Precision in design and adherence to standards.
- Source: importance-drawing-stuff-mechanical-engineers-gurusamy
Analytical Analysis (Root Cause Analysis)
- Identifying and addressing the root causes of engineering issues.
- Source: problem-solving-analytical-skills
Science and Technology Knowledge (Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Statics and Kinematics)
- Core principles for understanding mechanical systems.
- Source: technologys-relationship-with-engineering-and-management
Research Skills
- Conducting effective engineering research.
- Source: ResearchSkillsForEngineeringStudents
Testing and Evaluating
- Importance of rigorous testing in engineering.
- Source: test-engineering
MS Office (Excel, Word, Power BI, Access)
- Harnessing the power of Microsoft Office for engineering tasks.
- Source: Is-learning-MS-office-important-for-a-mechanical-engineer
Material Science (Heat Treatments)
- Understanding the properties of materials.
- Source: what-mse
Manufacturing Processes (Lathe, Mill, CNC, Bending, Welding, Grinding, Finishing)
- Hands-on skills for producing tangible engineering solutions.
- Source: why-manufacturing-is-vital-to-engineering-education
Measuring (Shadowgraphs, Hardness Testing, Vernier Calipers, Micrometers, DTIs, Depth Gauge, Slips, Ring/Thread Gauges)
- Precision measurement techniques in engineering.
- Source: What-is-the-importance-of-measurement-in-engineering
Instrumentation and Control (Servo Motors, LCD Screens)
- Understanding and implementing control systems.
- Source: importance-instrumentation-control-engineering-plant-taaltech
Control Systems
- Designing and implementing control systems.
- Source: importance-control-systems-modern-world-divyabanu-divya
Robotics
- The role of robotics in modern mechanical engineering.
- Source: What-is-the-importance-of-robotics-in-engineering

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the diverse set of skills outlined in this guide is not just a checklist but a roadmap to becoming an exceptional mechanical engineer. The combination of technical prowess and soft skills will not only open doors to exciting opportunities but also elevate your contributions to the field. Remember, continuous learning and application of these skills are the keys to sustained success in the dynamic world of mechanical engineering.

Internal (Resources) – Engineering Mindset

It’s great to develop the skills required for an engineering career, but you need to develop you mindset in order to tackle complex engineering problems, for that I recommend the following articles:

References:

What are your thoughts? Have I covered everything or is there more you know and would like to share?

I’m always learning and improving this site and my blogs, so please feel free to get in touch with me via LinkedIn or this site to discuss any topics I have covered.

If you’re having trouble finding ways to progress check out these sites filled with free learning tools:

Facebook Tweet Pin