 Mechanical
engineering is one of the largest, broadest, and oldest engineering
disciplines. Mechanical engineers use the principles of energy,
materials, and mechanics to design and manufacture machines and devices
of all types. They create the processes and systems that drive
technology and industry.
The key characteristics of the profession are its breadth, flexibility,
and individuality. The career paths of mechanical engineers are largely
determined by individual choices, a decided advantage in a changing world.
 Mechanics, energy and heat, mathematics, engineering sciences, design and
manufacturing form the foundation of mechanical engineering. Mechanics
includes fluids, ranging from still water to hypersonic gases flowing
around a space vehicle; it involves the motion of anything from a particle
to a machine or complex structure.
 Mechanical
engineers research, design, develop, manufacture, and test tools,
engines, machines, and other mechanical devices. They work on power-producing machines such as electric generators,
internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines. They also work
on power-using machines such as refrigeration and air-conditioning
equipment, machine tools, material handling systems, elevators and
escalators, industrial production equipment, and robots used in
manufacturing. Mechanical engineers also design tools that other
engineers need for their work. In addition, mechanical engineers work in
manufacturing or agriculture production, maintenance, or technical
sales; many become administrators or managers.
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Mechanical Engineering Resources |
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Online |
Downloads |
Profiles of Mechanical Engineers:
Interviews of Professionals |
PDF on each profile
page |
Overview:
Overview of Mechanical Engineering |
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The Field:
Mechanical Engineering Areas of Involvement |
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Preparation:
Choosing a Major, Scholarships, Accredited Programs |
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Day in the Life:
Teams and Coworkers, Tasks, Workplace,
Challenges, Global
Engineering, Diversity |
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Earnings:
Employer Options, Salary Ranges, Types of Employers |
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Employment:
Statistics, Industries, Employers |
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Professional Development:
Managing Your
Career, Lifelong Learning, Graduate Studies, P.E. License |
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Career Path Forecast:
Predictions |
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Professional Organizations:
Resources, Networking, Support |
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Podcast:
Overview of the work of Mechanical Engineers |
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Internet Resources:
 ASME
ASME
Student Center
ASME
Young Engineers
ASME
Professional Practice Curriculum |
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Note: Some resources in
this section are provided by
ASME
and the US Department of Labor, Bureau
of Labor Statistics.
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