4 of the most pervasive myths in engineering

Engineering is incredibly broad in scope, underpinning and influencing much of modern society’s products and services. Whether it’s the conception of automated robotics, the conversion of raw materials, or bringing sustainable sanitation to refugee camps, engineers play a leading role in a range of sectors and industries. Reflecting this, the variety of engineering disciplines is larger than most realise, and the day-to-day routine of engineers can differ greatly.

Being such a hard profession to pin down, there are naturally some misconceptions that follow it. This article will clarify some of engineering’s most pervasive myths, helping you better understand one of the most exciting and in-demand careers.

Myth 1: engineering doesn’t require soft skills

The common belief is that technical prowess is an engineer’s greatest asset – whether that takes the form of CAD software or systems management – but the reality is more complex than this. For many engineers, their everyday routine will involve communicating and collaborating with different team members and stakeholders, while taking on feedback and balancing competing priorities. Although technical expertise will inevitably be tied into this process, having key soft skills could be crucial to the success of your career – particularly if you’re looking to take on more responsibilities or leadership positions.

According to our UK Salary & Recruiting Trends guide, communication and interpersonal abilities are amongst the most in-demand soft-skills, reflecting the need for professionals who can not only grasp technical knowledge, but also transfer it.

Looking to develop your soft skills? Our My Learning online portal provides a free and interactive way of developing the soft skills that could differentiate you from other engineering candidates.

Myth 2: engineering is not a creative profession

As engineering is typically restricted by physical laws and practical considerations, you may assume the potential for creativity to be limited. However, it’s overcoming these limitations and technicalities that makes engineering a perfect fit for creative problem solvers. Whether it’s increasing the shelf life of food or improving the yield of raw materials, creativity is required to iterate on existing ideas and incorporate emerging technologies. Having a technical aptitude is less meaningful if you don’t have the imagination to channel it and innovate new solutions.

Myth 3: engineering isn’t for women

It’s true that engineering has historically been a male dominated profession, and certain barriers – such as a lack of career visibility – remain in the paths of aspiring female engineers.

However, significant progress has been made in closing the engineering gender gap, and more organisations are realising that they can’t afford not to draw from diverse talent pools. The number of women in engineering has almost doubled in the last decade, and organisaitons such as the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) and Women into Science and Engineering (WISE) have greatly helped encourage and recognise women in the profession. More industry leaders are playing their part too, providing meaningful engineering opportunities and breaking down stereotypes.

The campaign to diversify the engineering world may be an ongoing one, yet it’s clear that women have an active and important role in its future.

Myth 4: once you’re an engineer, you’re always an engineer

Engineering is often seen as a vocation. However, career paths are no longer set in stone; it’s now common for professionals to explore multiple career avenues, and engineers have a particularly desirable set of transferable skills – from numeracy to data analysis. Whether you decide to move into supply chain management, finance, or consultancy, there will always be a market for your skills and experience.

Yet with such a huge variety of roles and opportunities, along with competitive salaries and benefit packages, there’s a good chance that engineering is a profession you’ll want to continue for years to come.

If you’re looking to make your own mark in engineering, you can find the latest engineering jobs and opportunities.

Or to discuss your recruitment needs in this field, please contact your local consultant, or take a look at the career advice section for more insights.