How Valuable is Engineering Experience in a Physics Career?

  • Thread starter engicist
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Engineering
In summary, the conversation discusses the individual's plan to switch their major to physics and their concern about how their previous experience in electronic repair will be relevant. The other person in the conversation suggests that their experience will be valuable in both industry and potential graduate school opportunities, as electronics are often used in experimental work and even theoretical groups may require skills in building electronic instruments.
  • #1
engicist
1
0
So, I am planning on switching my Major to physics. I just am not sure exactly what I want to do with it. Let me add that I have an associates in electronic repair and (somehow) this degree allowed me to work for four years as a field engineer for an oil service company. I was mainly responsible for running their pulsed neutron tools. I guess my question is, when I switch to Physics, will this experience be helpful in making my employment possibilities more broad?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I can't see how it wouldn't. Experience in electronics (especially if you've had to trouble-shoot/repair broken equipment) will look good to future employers in industry... and to potential grad school advisers (especially if you are going into an experimental work -- in a lot of groups, the equipment you're going to be using is OLD and will need repairs -- frequently that's capacitors leaking with age or motors short-circuiting from wear). ...And even if you do more work on a computer (is a CS-type job or in a "theory" group in grad school), that's an electronic instrument too (some theory groups I've known have built mini on-site semi-supercomputers, which involves some wiring).
 

FAQ: How Valuable is Engineering Experience in a Physics Career?

Is an engineering background necessary for a career in science?

No, an engineering background is not necessary for a career in science. While there may be some overlap between the two fields, they have different focuses and skill sets. Many scientists come from diverse educational backgrounds, including biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

Can an engineering past be beneficial for a career in science?

Yes, an engineering past can be very beneficial for a career in science. Engineering teaches problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and critical thinking, all of which are valuable in scientific research. Additionally, engineers often have experience working with complex equipment and data analysis, which are important skills in many scientific disciplines.

Are there any specific fields of science where an engineering background is particularly helpful?

Yes, there are several fields of science where an engineering background can be especially helpful. These include biomedical engineering, environmental science, and materials science, among others. In these fields, engineering principles and techniques are often applied to solve complex scientific problems.

How can I leverage my engineering background in a science career?

There are a few ways to leverage an engineering background in a science career. You can highlight your technical skills, such as data analysis and laboratory experience, on your resume or during job interviews. You can also seek out interdisciplinary research opportunities that combine engineering and science, or pursue a graduate degree in a field that bridges the two disciplines.

Are there any disadvantages to having an engineering background in a science career?

While an engineering background can provide many advantages in a science career, there may be some potential disadvantages. For example, some employers may view an engineer as having a more rigid or structured approach to problem-solving, whereas scientists may have a more exploratory and creative approach. Additionally, an engineer may need to acquire additional knowledge or skills in a specific scientific field to be competitive in certain job markets.

Similar threads

Unveiling My Journey into Engineering: Seeking Your Valuable Input
Replies
3
Views
2K
Double majoring in electrical engineering and physics
Replies
22
Views
2K
Deciding between Physics or Engineering after a very turbulent year
Replies
23
Views
1K
Other Masters in Physics after working in Engineering
Replies
7
Views
1K
Getting into an engineering career with no degree...
Replies
12
Views
2K
How to switch from engineering with unknown undergrad name to Physics?
Replies
16
Views
1K
Other Leveraging engineering B.E. after pivoting to Physics - impossible?
Replies
19
Views
793
Programs Help on Majors and Graduate Degrees as an Engineering Student
Replies
3
Views
1K
Programs Trying to decide what program to study (physics or engineering)
Replies
13
Views
1K
Programs From a Nuclear Engineering BS, will I be able to do MS & PhD in Physics?
Replies
6
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top