Engineering uses a complex blend of specialized knowledge, science, math, design, construction, and empiricism in order to build valuable products or services for society. Whether it is constructing a machine, a piece of software, a system, or a structure of some kind, engineering plays a vital role in society. Because engineering projects are often complicated, they require a number of specialized staff members, which is why engineering management is so important.
As a broad field, engineering covers a great number of subfields and categories. Working in engineering requires specialized knowledge and training, and higher education is often needed to achieve those qualities. This is especially true if you are seeking a career in management. In many cases, engineers need a Master’s in Engineering Management in order to pursue an engineering management career. You may be wondering, is a Master’s in Engineering Management worth it? Read below to find out more.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Does an Engineering Management Career Involve?
As the title suggests, engineering managers are responsible for the overall development and completion of an engineering project. A manager is expected to carry out tasks like planning, design, staff hiring, training, team supervision, gathering equipment, budgeting, scheduling, activity coordination, research, and checking technical accuracy. The duties of a manager will vary depending on the project’s goals and resources as well as the manager’s skill set. Ultimately, it is up to the engineering manager to plan, organize, and execute a project’s agenda. For many engineering projects, it takes careful planning, detail, and accuracy to successfully complete.
2. Is a Master’s in Engineering Management Worth it?
Yes, depending on what your aspirations are. If you haven’t yet received an engineering education, it is recommended that you earn a bachelor’s degree before pursuing employment. If you are an employed engineer looking to advance a career into management, earning an MBA or master’s degree would be the right pathway to follow.
Engineering management also takes a certain set of skills or passions. Do you have skills in leadership, organizational ability, detail orientation, communication, or multi-tasking? At the very least, are you interested in developing these skills? Are you well versed in science, mathematics, technology, or design? These are the traits needed to successfully carry out a career in engineering management.
3. What are the Benefits of a Master’s in Engineering Management Vs MBA?
A master’s degree in engineering management will cover a general education in this area, while an MBA is a type of master’s degree that focuses on business administration. MBA stands for Master of Business Administration; this degree program delves into business skills, employee relations, accounting, and more. Both degrees are great for snagging an engineering management career.
4. What Can I Expect From a Master’s Program in Engineering?
On the business side of things, a student could expect courses in financing, accounting, economics, business strategy, human resourcing, organizational skills, and marketing. On the technical side, courses will be teaching students how to apply these business skills in an engineering setting. Engineering enterprises often require different management skills than your average business.
5. How is the Market for Job Seekers Interested in Engineering Management?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects growth of 6% within the next decade. As the engineering field continues to expand, many engineering firms will need professionals who are able to take on both technical and managerial roles. Every project needs quality leadership and organization of some kind.
6. What is an Engineering Management Salary?
The average engineering manager’s salary is about $137,720 on an annual basis. Managers working in the branch of scientific research and development tend to make the most at $159,400 per year. Company and enterprise managers tend to make about $143,360. Manufacturers make $137,790.
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