How to Become an Engineer Without a Degree: A Path of Alternative Education

Introduction

Are you passionate about engineering but don’t have a formal degree? Rest assured, you’re not alone. As someone who transitioned from being a chef to working in entry-level manufacturing roles, I understand the desire to enter the engineering field through alternative paths.

After six years of gaining practical experience on the shop floor, learning new skills, and polishing my language proficiency as a native Polish speaker, I successfully applied for a position as a quality engineer. I became an engineer without a degree, but I didn’t stop there.

Recognizing the value of continued learning and the benefits a degree could bring to my future career, I embarked on an apprenticeship degree. In this article, we’ll explore practical guidance and insights for individuals who aspire to become engineers without following the traditional degree route. By leveraging my own experiences and knowledge, we will explore alternative education options, the importance of practical experience, transferable skills, networking, professional development, and the potential of pursuing a degree apprenticeship.

Understanding the Value of Practical Experience:

In the field of engineering, practical experience is invaluable in complementing theoretical knowledge. Reflecting on my own journey, I began my professional career as a chef, cultivating a passion for cooking and honing my skills in crafting delicious meals.

However, fueled by a desire for personal growth, I made the bold decision to transition into an entry-level manufacturing role to acquire new skills and improve my language proficiency. While cooking skills may not directly translate to the engineering environment, several transferable skills are at play, such as logical and sequential work, meeting deadlines, understanding customer needs, and providing appropriate solutions.

Gaining hands-on experience proved to be crucial in building a solid foundation for my future as an engineer. I encourage you not to shy away from new challenges and to proactively seek opportunities outside your area of expertise. Approach your employer with enthusiasm, expressing your desire to change career paths and develop the necessary skills to become an engineer. This mindset and willingness to learn will greatly contribute to your desired goal.

Alternative Educational Options:

While a degree is one path to becoming an engineer, it’s not the only path. Building upon my own experiences, let’s delve into alternative educational options:

Apprenticeships and Vocational Training: 

Developing a versatile approach is crucial when aspiring to become an engineer and understanding the intricacies of your industry. Stay open-minded and seize learning opportunities within your organization to enhance your skill set.

Throughout my experience in manufacturing jobs, I proactively pursued chances to acquire new skills, operate unfamiliar machinery, and engage in training courses. These endeavors not only improved my language proficiency but also deepened my industry knowledge.

By adopting an apprentice mindset, you can elevate your skill set and gain a competitive edge. Remember, patience is essential, but avoid resting on your achievements. Actively seek shadowing opportunities in roles you aspire to and demonstrate a genuine interest in the work of others.

Seeking guidance from professionals already in your desired field is invaluable. They can offer insights to navigate your path toward securing your dream job.

If you are determined to learn on the job while benefiting from sponsored formal education, explore available training programs. In the UK, you can refer to the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Educations, while in the USA, Apprenticeship USA is an excellent resource for apprenticeship opportunities.

Online Courses and Certifications

Online courses and certifications provide accessible and flexible learning opportunities for individuals looking to enhance their engineering skills. There are several reputable platforms that offer a wide range of training courses tailored to various interests and skill levels. By enrolling in these courses, you can gain valuable insights and initial exposure to the discipline of your choice. Here are three types of training platforms that offer excellent value for the money spent:

Udemy offers diverse engineering courses, including a wide range of topics. Industry experts create high-quality, on-demand content. The flexible learning model allows self-paced study. Whether a beginner or experienced professional, engineers can refine their skills. Lifetime access to course materials provides valuable resources for future reference. Udemy’s large community fosters discussion, networking, and insights sharing among peers. Engineers can leverage Udemy to develop and excel in their engineering careers.

EdX  EdX features a broad catalog of engineering courses, such as ‘SolidWorks CAD Fundamentals.’ Taught by top instructors, the courses offer rigorous learning experiences with real-world case studies. Engineers can apply their knowledge to practical challenges and earn verified certificates upon completion. Learning from prestigious institutions enriches their education, providing access to esteemed instructors. EdX empowers engineers to enhance their technical skills and professional development, making them more competitive and capable in the engineering industry.

LinkedIn Learning offers a diverse range of engineering courses, including technical training programs for mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. These programs provide hands-on experience and practical knowledge, preparing engineers for real-world challenges. With personalized learning recommendations and accessibility across devices, learners can tailor their experience. Upon completion, certificates are awarded, showcasing their skills. The platform’s comprehensive offerings empower engineers to enhance their technical expertise and advance their careers in the engineering field.

By taking advantage of these online learning platforms, you can gain valuable knowledge and skills in engineering, boost your credentials, and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends. Explore the courses offered by these platforms and embark on your journey to becoming a successful engineer.

lndustry-Specific Training Programs

Reflecting on my journey, I completed online courses, certifications, and industry-specific training, enhancing my knowledge. For example, ‘SolidWorks Essential Training‘ improved my proficiency in CAD and 3D modeling. I earned Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification, gaining process improvement skills. Pursuing an apprenticeship degree at the Institute for Apprenticeships provided practical experience and formal education in engineering. These experiences deepened my understanding and equipped me with diverse skills for excelling in my career.

Pursuing a Degree Apprenticeship:

While I became an engineer without a degree, I recognized the value that a formal degree could bring to my future career prospects. To leverage my potential and ensure continued growth, I made the decision to pursue a degree apprenticeship. A degree apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to earn a degree while gaining practical experience in a professional setting.

During my degree apprenticeship, I discovered the importance of transferable skills that have been pivotal in my engineering journey. These skills, which can be honed during the apprenticeship, include:

• Problem-solving: The combination of academic learning and real-world application in a degree apprenticeship helps develop strong problem-solving skills, enabling apprentices to tackle complex engineering challenges effectively.
• Critical thinking: Apprentices gain the ability to analyze engineering concepts and apply them in practical scenarios, fostering critical thinking capabilities that are crucial for innovation and efficient problem-solving.
• Attention to detail: Engaging in hands-on experiences through a degree apprenticeship fosters precision and attention to detail, vital attributes for ensuring accuracy in engineering tasks.
• Teamwork: Working alongside experienced professionals during a degree apprenticeship provides apprentices with opportunities to collaborate, communicate effectively, and excel in team settings, all essential skills for successful engineering projects.
• Effective communication: The experience of interacting with mentors, industry experts, and peers during a degree apprenticeship enhances communication skills, which are integral for presenting ideas, discussing technical concepts, and collaborating in a professional environment.

I encourage aspiring engineers to consider the benefits of a degree apprenticeship, as it not only offers the potential for career advancement but also provides an ideal platform to develop and strengthen these transferable skills, making them well-rounded and competent professionals in the field of engineering.

Networking and Proffessional Developement

Networking and professional development are essential for propelling your engineering career forward. To stay at the forefront of the rapidly evolving engineering landscape, upskilling yourself is imperative. The engineering field demands a continuous pursuit of the latest trends, technologies, and skills to remain competitive and relevant.

Thankfully, there is a wealth of networking events tailored to engineers, providing ample opportunities to expand your professional network. Many esteemed engineering institutions organize a diverse array of events that cater to various interests. The Engineering Council website in the UK is a valuable resource to explore a comprehensive list of engineering institutions and their offerings.

One such institution that I personally benefitted from is the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMech). Through IMech, I gained access to enriching networking events and training sessions, which greatly enhanced my industry connections and expertise. Embracing networking opportunities fosters meaningful connections with experienced professionals, mentors, and peers, ultimately augmenting your support system and providing diverse perspectives.

Some of benefits of proffessional development include:

• Skill Advancement: Engaging in events and training sharpens technical abilities, making engineers valuable assets.
• Increased Career Opportunities: Professional development opens doors to a wider range of engineering careers.
• Industry Recognition: Active networking garners credibility among peers and employers, boosting reputation.
• Adaptability to Change: Continuous upskilling helps navigate industry changes effectively.
• Confidence and Personal Growth: Building a robust network fosters confidence and encourages tackling new challenges.

By embracing networking and professional development, engineers can forge a pathway to sustained success in their careers, equipped with the latest knowledge and a strong network of industry professionals.

Conclusions

Becoming an engineer without a degree is possible, as demonstrated by my own experience and diverse pathways. Combine alternative education, practical experience, transferable skills, networking, professional development, and degree apprenticeship for rewarding engineering careers. Thrive in the ever-evolving world of engineering with determination and continuous learning. Embrace networking events, training programs, and online learning platforms like Udemy, EdX, and LinkedIn Learning for exciting career opportunities. Leverage alternative education and practical experience to become a competent and accomplished engineer. Remember, the path to becoming an engineer is as diverse as the field itself, and with the right mix of skills, perseverance, and passion, you can excel and make your mark in the engineering industry.