What Is Mechanical Engineering, & Why Is It Important?

Mechanical engineering is the study of moving things and systems. It is one of the most varied and adaptable engineering specialties. As a result, mechanical engineering has an impact on almost every element of contemporary life, including the human body, which is a highly complicated mechanism.

A mechanical engineer's job description is to take a product from concept to market. To do so, a mechanical engineer must be able to assess the stresses and temperature conditions that a product, its components, or its subsystems will face, design them for functionality, aesthetics, and durability, and establish the optimum manufacturing strategy that will assure failure-free operation.

 

Mechanical Engineers

Mechanical engineers work in a variety of fields such as automotive, aerospace, biotechnology, computers, electronics, microelectromechanical systems, energy conversion, robotics and automation, and manufacturing. From advanced energy systems and aerospace engineering to solid-waste engineering and textile engineering, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) now offers 36 technical divisions.

Beyond the businesses mentioned above, the breadth of mechanical engineering enables students to pursue a range of professional paths. A mechanical engineering education equips students with creative thinking skills to design an exciting product or system, analytical tools to achieve their design goals, the ability to overcome all constraints, and the teamwork required to design, market, and produce a system, regardless of the specific path they envision for themselves. Many other disciplines, including health, law, consulting, management, banking, and finance, may benefit from these vital talents.

 

What Does a Mechanical Engineer Get Paid?

In 2019, the median income for mechanical engineers was $88,430. That year, the top 25 percent earned $111,980, while the bottom 25 percent earned $70,280.

 

What Prospects Do Mechanical Engineers Have?

Mechanical engineers are expected to expand by 4% between 2019 and 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. During that time, an estimated 12,400 positions should become available.

 

Cities with the Best Paying Mechanical Engineers

San Jose, San Francisco, Lake Charles, Albuquerque, and Midland are the metropolitan regions with the highest salaries for mechanical engineers.