Help the Family Business: Engineering Degrees & Contracting

[gpick19]

Hello all,
Basically, since my early high school years I've been interested in engineering. My dad was an electrical engineer and really expanded the electrical business that my grand dad, an electrician, started. He and the 3 other E.E.'s that worked for him passed away, and the company fell on hard times. Luckily they maintained business and are still doing okay. My brother is finishing up a degree in EE to work there, but I am not so keen on EE. I would prefer either mechanical or civil, but I do want to work for the company and help out. My question is, what would each of these degrees provide to the company to help in expansion and profitability? Is general contracting a possibility? Despite the family business, I am hardly aware of the engineering/business world and hope that you all can help. Thanks!

 

[Woopy]

you design the mechanical aspects of the product, and your brother can do the circuitry, there you go

 

[turbo]

Are you interested in marketing and business? Maybe your family's business has always needed a tech-savvy front-man in marketing and never had one, leading to hard times. I don't mean that you should abandon your technical education and jump into marketing, but you might consider taking summer jobs in technical sales/consulting so that you get a feel for how your future customers should be approached and how their needs should be addressed. You can have all kinds of skills in your organization, but without the ability to market those skills, your company can fail.

Think it over, and good luck!

 

[hellboy4444]

don't study engineering/science if you want to sell soaps.
as simple as that!

 

[alphy]

I understand the importance of having a diverse skill set and knowledge base in the field of engineering. Both mechanical and civil engineering degrees would provide valuable expertise to your family's electrical business. Mechanical engineering focuses on the design and construction of machines and systems, while civil engineering focuses on the design and construction of infrastructure such as buildings, bridges, and roads. Both of these areas are crucial in the construction industry and would greatly benefit your family's business in terms of expansion and profitability.

In addition to these technical skills, both degrees also offer a strong foundation in problem-solving, critical thinking, and project management. These skills are essential in any business, and having a background in engineering can give you a unique perspective and advantage in finding efficient and effective solutions for your family's business.

Furthermore, if your family's business is involved in construction projects, a degree in civil engineering can also open up opportunities for general contracting. With this added expertise, you can take on a more active role in the business and potentially bring in more clients and projects.

It's great that your brother is pursuing a degree in electrical engineering to continue the family legacy, but it's also important for the business to have a diverse range of skills and knowledge. I highly encourage you to explore your interests in mechanical or civil engineering and see how you can contribute to the growth and success of your family's business. Best of luck to you!