Sony returns to smartphones with new models

Sony Corp. declared a return to the smartphone business on Sunday, unveiling its first smartphones under the Sony brand, but warned the group's painful transition would not be as fast as rebranding.

Kazuo Hirai is due to formally take over as Sony CEO on April 1, replacing Howard Stringer.

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Hirai said that while some management changes had already been identified there was still a long way to go to "explain to everybody who's doing what."

"People have these lofty expectations that we're going to have all the answers to all the problems that plague the world on April 1," Hirai said in an interview at the Barcelona Mobile World Congress. "We're not going to have that."

The once-stellar consumer electronics brand is heading for what it has warned would be a much bigger-than-expected $2.9 billion annual loss, its fourth in a row.

The surge of red ink has put Hirai under intense pressure from investors and ratings agencies to quickly staunch losses at the sprawling electronics group.

Hirai was at the Barcelona Mobile World Congress to unveil two new Android-powered smartphones, Xperia P and Xperia U, carrying the Sony brand.

Sony completed the purchase of Ericsson's 50 percent stake in the Sony Ericsson joint venture on February 16, a deal originally announced last October.

The newly renamed Sony Mobile Communications is headed by Bert Nordberg, Sony Ericsson's chief executive from 2009.

While both Hirai and Nordberg stressed that their message to Barcelona was that Sony was back in the phone business, Hirai said that Sony Mobile Communications would be integrated within Sony as a whole.

"Sony Mobile Communications needs to work in lockstep with the rest of Sony Corp. It may be a separate corporate entity but the way in which we operate and work together needs to be transparent and seamless as if it were one organization," he said.

He Sony Corp. declared a return to the smartphone business on Sunday, unveiling its first smartphones under the Sony brand, but warned the group's painful transition would not be as fast as rebranding.

Kazuo Hirai is due to formally take over as Sony CEO on April 1, replacing Howard Stringer.

related stories

Hirai said that while some management changes had already been identified there was still a long way to go to "explain to everybody who's doing what."

"People have these lofty expectations that we're going to have all the answers to all the problems that plague the world on April 1," Hirai said in an interview at the Barcelona Mobile World Congress. "We're not going to have that."

The once-stellar consumer electronics brand is heading for what it has warned would be a much bigger-than-expected $2.9 billion annual loss, its fourth in a row.

The surge of red ink has put Hirai under intense pressure from investors and ratings agencies to quickly staunch losses at the sprawling electronics group.

Hirai was at the Barcelona Mobile World Congress to unveil two new Android-powered smartphones, Xperia P and Xperia U, carrying the Sony brand.

Sony completed the purchase of Ericsson's 50 percent stake in the Sony Ericsson joint venture on February 16, a deal originally announced last October.

The newly renamed Sony Mobile Communications is headed by Bert Nordberg, Sony Ericsson's chief executive from 2009.

While both Hirai and Nordberg stressed that their message to Barcelona was that Sony was back in the phone business, Hirai said that Sony Mobile Communications would be integrated within Sony as a whole.

"Sony Mobile Communications needs to work in lockstep with the rest of Sony Corp. It may be a separate corporate entity but the way in which we operate and work together needs to be transparent and seamless as if it were one organization," he said.

He pointed to Sony Computer Entertainment Inc, the company responsible for the PlayStation and other gaming products, which remained a separate entity but was fully integrated when it came to discussing products and unifying the experience of users.

"That's the way I envision Sony Mobile Communications working as well," Hirai said.

He said work had already started on making that happen, but did not offer specifics.

Hirai said that he had identified four pillars that Sony would focus on, comprising the core businesses of digital imaging and gaming; marrying mobile devices with other Sony technologies, content and services; turning the struggling TV business around, and identifying new markets such as the medical business.

Both Hirai and Nordberg agreed Sony Ericsson had been hamstrung by having two equal partners, which had slowed down decision-making and getting products to market.

"50:50 was a problem ... I would never take a 50:50 job again," Nordberg told Reuters.

The priority now, Hirai said, was to have a portfolio of products and work with carriers to ensure they "get into the hands of users as quickly as possible."

"It's a very brutal industry and it moves very quickly," Nordberg said. "Every week is a new era in this industry and every competitor announces something, so it's a big, big race going on."pointed to Sony Computer Entertainment Inc, the company responsible for the PlayStation and other gaming products, which remained a separate entity but was fully integrated when it came to discussing products and unifying the experience of users.

"That's the way I envision Sony Mobile Communications working as well," Hirai said.

He said work had already started on making that happen, but did not offer specifics.

Hirai said that he had identified four pillars that Sony would focus on, comprising the core businesses of digital imaging and gaming; marrying mobile devices with other Sony technologies, content and services; turning the struggling TV business around, and identifying new markets such as the medical business.

Both Hirai and Nordberg agreed Sony Ericsson had been hamstrung by having two equal partners, which had slowed down decision-making and getting products to market.

"50:50 was a problem ... I would never take a 50:50 job again," Nordberg told Reuters.

The priority now, Hirai said, was to have a portfolio of products and work with carriers to ensure they "get into the hands of users as quickly as possible."

"It's a very brutal industry and it moves very quickly," Nordberg said. "Every week is a new era in this industry and every competitor announces something, so it's a big, big race going on."

Telecommunications Engineering

What You'll Do in a Telecommunications Engineering Career

A specialty within electrical engineering and closely linked to broadcast engineering, telecommunications engineering involves the design of specialized computer and electronics equipment for use in a telecommunications network or infrastructure. These include cellular telephone networks, broadband systems and other cutting-edge technologies. 

Along with designing intricate telephone and high speed data systems, telecommunications engineers often oversee the installation of telecommunications equipment and are responsible for coming up with creative, cost-effective solutions to telecommunications problems. Their in-depth training in modern-day telecommunications technology and engineering equips them with the expertise and problem-solving skills to successfully achieve this goal.

 

Telecommunications Engineering Job Opportunities

Playing a key role in building a communications infrastructure for a global economy, telecommunications engineers enjoy job opportunities in a number of industries. They work in wired and wireless communications companies, engineering consulting or design firms, electronics components manufacturers, and government agencies.  

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities in telecommunications engineering will remain steady throughout the next decade. However, some growth may occur due to the rising demand for electronic goods, including communications equipment and related consumer products, which has the potential to create jobs in engineering and design services.

 

The Future of Telecommunications Engineering

The telecommunications industry seems to invent a new technology every day. From cell phones to smart phones to ever-improving broadband communications, telecommunications engineers have been integral to driving the world into the twenty-first century.

In that regard, the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) reports that the FCC has released a comprehensive plan to increase broadband accessibility and speed to consumers in rural areas of the U.S., which, in turn, will encourage economic opportunities and job growth. Manufacturers, construction and telecommunication services will benefit from the expansion of the country's broadband infrastructure as will rural entrepreneurs and businesses interested in expanding their market base.

 

Telecommunications Engineering Degree Programs

Telecommunications engineers utilize a diverse skill set in developing telephone and high speed data services. Their education typically involves a broad array of engineering training, including electronics, civil, structural and electrical, along with fundamental business courses and project management.

Typically, telecommunications engineers hold bachelor's degrees in electrical engineering and enter their field in an apprentice-type role, gaining practical experience working closely with a senior-level telecommunications engineer. Students interested in obtaining a master's degree can pursue advanced training in electrical or telecommunications engineering.

Online Degree Options for Telecommunications Engineering

A few online master's degree programs in telecommunications engineering are available, although online electrical engineering programs are more prevalent.

Students interested in online education, particularly working adults, will benefit from the chance to enhance their professional credentials while studying from the comfort of their own home. Plus, online education typically offers flexible class scheduling, round-the-clock access to online course materials, chat rooms and other communications forums, and a cost-effective alternative to driving to class each day.

 

Telecommunications Engineer Salary

According to the BLS, those in the field of telecommunications engineering earn a median annual income of $86,370. Across all experience levels, telecommunications engineering salaries range from $55,330 to $129,920. The executive branch of the federal government employs the most telecommunications engineers in the country. And the top-paying states for telecommunications engineers are: District of Columbia, Rhode Island, New Jersey, California and Massachusetts.

Technology Management

What You'll Do in a Technology Management Career

Technology management is a truly multidisciplinary field that integrates personnel and project management skills with solid knowledge of technological systems and operations. Its purpose is critical: to ensure competitive advantage for organizations through the effective incorporation and development of technology. Engineering or technology-based businesses such as software or hardware companies rely on well-trained technology managers, but so does any organization that uses complex machinery or computer systems.

Technology managers may face a complex spectrum of job duties, including supervision of a wide array of technical personnel, design and deployment of computer and other technological systems, project management, production and operations management, evaluation of technology value, and safety and quality control oversight. Technology management may even encompass innovation and entrepreneurship as it applies to technologically-based businesses.

 

Technology Management Job Opportunities

Entry-level jobs in technology management include customer support or help desk positions, database or website development positions, or programming jobs. However, those with experience in the field or who have earned graduate degrees are eligible for more supervisory roles, including project management. Executive-level positions in technology management, such as Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Director of Management Information Systems (MIS) or Director of Information Technology (IT), have added responsibilities, such as working with upper management, overseeing personnel and developing an organization's overall technology strategy.  Job opportunities are available in a wide range of industries, from IT and telecommunications to nanotechnology to insurance and financial companies.

 

The Future of Technology Management

As industries continue to become more technology focused, workers with the leadership skills to be effective technology managers will be in high demand. Companies need knowledgeable technology managers to ensure that their computing and technical systems are up-to-date, efficient and secure. Besides the obvious job opportunities in various technology and engineering sectors, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment growth in consulting services and healthcare organizations.

 

Technology Management Degree Programs

Associate's Degree in Technology Management: To work in the technology management field, a 2-year degree in a related field such as technology engineering or management information systems is a good start. However, a bachelor's degree is usually the minimum education needed for a management career.
Bachelor's Degree in Technology Management: A technology management bachelor's degree—usually a Bachelor of Science—is a 4-year program preparing you to enter the technology business world. It usually combines coursework in a particular area of technology or engineering with classes in business management fundamentals.
Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Technology Management: Graduate degrees in technology management include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science (MS), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Graduate programs provide more specialized courses in the management of technological systems and personnel.
Online Technology Management Degrees:  Online degrees at the 2-year and 4-year level are available in information technology, technology engineering and project management. There are also a number of online MBA programs in technology management.

 

Technology Manager Salary

Like other areas of management, technology management can be a lucrative industry for those with the right combination of education and experience. Those starting out as project managers generally earn between $50,000 and $70,000, depending on the field in which they work. A chief technology officer (CTO), as part of the executive staff, may start in the $80,000 to $90,000 range if they hold a bachelor's degree. CTOs with master's degrees, MBAs, or PhDs can earn annual salaries well into the triple digits. For IT managers, the highest-paying industry in May 2008 was securities and commodities brokerage, with an annual salary of $145,960.

Petroleum Engineering

What You'll Do in a Petroleum Engineering Career

Petroleum engineering professionals are responsible for the discovery, extraction, and refinement of natural oil and gas resources. Reserves of crude oil and natural gas found throughout the world are critical not only to the energy industry—providing fuel for transportation and energy for lighting and heat—but also in the manufacture of a plethora of industrial and consumer products, from plastics to cosmetics.

Petroleum engineers work with geologists and other scientists to locate oil and gas resources and determine the safest, most effective methods and equipment for extracting those resources. They also develop new technologies such as computer-controlled drilling to increase the amount of resources recovered. Other job duties in the petroleum engineering field include the monitoring of drilling and production, optimizing the economics of drilling operations, and overseeing safety and maintenance of plants and systems.

 

Petroleum Engineering Job Opportunities

Because the oil and gas energy industries are truly global in scale, petroleum engineers have a lot of international job opportunities. Essentially, however, they work wherever the oil and gas industries are located, either overseas in oil-producing nations or in states in the U.S. with large natural energy reserves. Petroleum engineers may work in the field as drilling or reservoir engineers, or they can be managers, teachers or consultants. Though of course major oil and gas companies employ a lot of petroleum engineers, opportunities are available in other industries, such as mining and petroleum product manufacturing.

 

The Future of Petroleum Engineering

The petroleum engineering sector is expected to show excellent employment growth, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics—18 percent between 2008 and 2018. As long as the demand for energy remains high, petroleum engineers will be needed to locate new sources of oil and gas and to develop more effective methods of extracting and processing existing resources. In addition, a large number of current petroleum engineers are expected to retire over the next 10 years, which means that many new scientists and engineers will be needed.

 

Petroleum Engineering Schools & Degree Programs

Associate's Degree in Petroleum Engineering: Community colleges as well as more specialized engineering or mining schools may offer 2-year associate's degrees in petroleum engineering technology or pre-engineering. The former qualifies you for technician work in the field, while the latter prepares you to transfer to a 4-year program.
Bachelor's Degree in Petroleum Engineering: Typically, a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in petroleum engineering begins with general education, preparatory math and science, and introductory petroleum engineering courses. The final two years of the program involve more specialized courses, such as geology or well drilling.
Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Petroleum Engineering: Master of Science, Master of Engineering (MEng) or PhD degrees in petroleum engineering usually focus on more specialized subjects, such as economic evaluation or production system design. Graduate degree holders enter the field with more advanced knowledge and leadership skills.
Online Petroleum Engineering Degrees: Though online degree programs in petroleum engineering are rare, working professionals who already hold a bachelor's degree will find a number of online master's degree programs in the field.

 

Petroleum Engineer Salary

Petroleum engineers receive some of the highest salaries in the engineering field. A July 2009 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers reported that the average starting salary for petroleum engineers with bachelor's degrees was $83,121. Those with the additional training to work in consulting, administration or finance can earn even more. Petroleum engineers in the oil and gas industry are also top earners, particularly those working under extreme conditions, such as offshore drilling operations

Nuclear Engineering

What You'll Do in a Nuclear Engineering Career

The field of nuclear engineering is devoted to harnessing and utilizing nuclear energy and radiation for the benefit of humankind. Nuclear engineers use their expertise in math, physics and engineering as well as their knowledge of social and environmental issues to tackle the safe, effective design of a number of processes and systems, including nuclear plants for energy generation, nuclear power sources for military or space vehicles, systems for disposal of radioactive waste, and equipment used in nuclear medicine.
Nuclear engineers may also be involved in research and development of new products, monitoring of nuclear power systems, power plant operation, radioactive waste disposal, radiation measurement, and reactor engineering. The application of nuclear medicine techniques, such as x-ray technology and radiation sterilization of equipment, is another exciting area of nuclear engineering. Nuclear engineers even use radiation to address agricultural concerns like crop development, food safety and pest control.

 

Nuclear Engineering Job Opportunities

Employment opportunities for nuclear engineers run the gamut from jobs for those with advanced degrees and lots of experience, such as management or teaching, to entry-level work  as technologists or support staff. Nuclear engineering professionals are invaluable in a number of industries, including consulting, consumer and industrial power, health and medical research, transportation, and food and water safety. The federal government is a major employer in the field, particularly the Department of Energy and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Also, universities always need knowledgeable individuals to teach nuclear engineering.

 

The Future of Nuclear Engineering

With growing interest in nuclear power as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, the potential for job growth in the energy sector is promising. In the United States, no commercial nuclear power plants have been built for some time, but if nuclear energy catches on, nuclear engineers will be needed to research and design new types of power plants with safety, efficiency and proper waste management in mind. Other areas of nuclear engineering expected to grow in coming years are nuclear medicine, health physics and agricultural techniques such as the development of new crop varieties.

 

Nuclear Engineering Schools & Degree Programs

Associate's Degree in Nuclear Engineering: A nuclear engineering technologist or technician usually holds a 2-year degree. An Associate of Science (AS) degree program includes core courses in nuclear engineering subjects as well as training in math, physics and computer applications.

Bachelor's Degree in Nuclear Engineering: A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in nuclear engineering includes the same core courses as the associate's degree, plus more in-depth study of specialties such as health physics, fission systems or radiation imaging. A bachelor's degree prepares you for entry-level employment as a scientist or engineer.

Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Nuclear Engineering: Laboratory research or university faculty jobs usually require a graduate degree in nuclear engineering: a Master of Science or PhD degree. You can enter a graduate program after earning a 4-year degree in nuclear engineering or a related area such as mechanical or electrical engineering.

Online Nuclear Engineering Degrees:  For those already employed in the field who would like to advance their career training, online graduate programs in nuclear engineering are available at the master's level. Some online programs also offer associate's and bachelor's degrees in nuclear engineering technology.
 

 

Nuclear Engineer Salary

According to a July 2009 report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, nuclear engineers with bachelor's degrees earned an average starting salary of $61,610. Those with master's degrees generally earned a few thousand dollars more annually. The median annual wage for the profession as a whole was $97,080 in May 2008. Consulting and research industries offered the highest salaries, with the top honors going to management, scientific, and technical consulting services—the average 2008 salary in that sector was $113,190.

Molecular Engineering

What You'll Do in a Molecular Engineering Career

Imagine a tiny device that pilots through the body and identifies and blots out small clusters of cancer cells before they can spread. What if the entire Library of Congress could be contained in a box the size of a sugar cube?
According to the U.S. National Science Foundation, these types of extraordinary accomplishments are fast becoming a part of our reality. Welcome to the world of molecular engineering—sometimes called nanotechnology or molecular manufacturing—which involves the engineering of functional systems at the molecular scale. With a degree in molecular engineering or a related field such as bio-molecular engineering, you’ll be part of a futuristic scenario that has the capacity to drastically improve the quality of people’s lives.

 

Molecular Engineering Job Opportunities

Molecular engineers work in virtually every industry, including pharmaceutical research, materials science, robotics, mechanical engineering and biotechnology.  Because molecular engineering is considered a “general-purpose technology,” it has the potential to impact almost all industries and areas of society. Molecular engineering will create durable, smart products for the medical, transportation and agriculture industries, opening doors to careers in these, and other, in-demand fields.

The Future of Molecular Engineering

The future of molecular engineering is limitless, and career prospects are promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that job opportunities are excellent in certain related fields, such as biomedical engineering. However there is significant debate on the implications of nanotechnology because it raises the same issues as any new technology: what is its impact upon the environment, and what are the prospects for global disaster?

 

Molecular Engineering Degree Programs

Colleges and universities across the U.S. offer degree programs in related fields of engineering, such as chemical engineering, environmental and bio-molecular engineering at the bachelor’s, masters and doctoral level. Because it is an emerging field, degree programs focusing entirely on molecular engineering are often considered special track programs and are only offered in tandem with other engineering degree programs. Doctoral-level students can enter the molecular engineering career path by earning a PhD in Molecular Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering, or Energy and Chemical Engineering.
K. Eric Drexler, PhD, a researcher and author whose work focuses on advanced nanotechnologies, advises students interested in entering the field to broaden their studies to include fundamental courses in mathematics, mechanics, chemistry, thermodynamics and electromagnetics in order to fully
thrive in a career in molecular engineering.

Online Degree Options for Molecular Engineers

Online degree programs in molecular engineering are most often available under a bio-molecular engineering or chemical engineering program. Online Bachelor of Science degrees in chemical engineering are readily available, as are online programs in molecular biology, which include bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral-level courses.

 

Molecular Engineer Salary

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2009 report states that engineers in related careers, such as chemical engineering, earn between $53,730 and $130,240 annually. The employment site SimplyHired.com estimates that the average salary for a molecular engineer rests at $70,000 per year while NanotechBuzz records an annual estimate of $97,978 for nanotechnologists working in the U.S.

Mechanical Engineering

What You'll Do in a Mechanical Engineering Career

Mechanical engineering is a very broad discipline, covering the design and manufacturing of mechanical devices from hand-operated tools to complex machinery. Mechanical engineers work in a wide range of industries, but what all jobs in the field have in common is a focus on the mechanics of motion, whether it's fluid dynamics in a hydroelectric power system, the transport and conversion of energy, or the moving parts of complex automated factory equipment.
Mechanical engineering professionals often concentrate on drafting and design engineering, such as product, equipment or systems design. They also work on research and development, manufacturing, and testing in the lab or in the field. Because of the versatile skill set that the field demands, many mechanical engineers are capable of working in administrative or managerial capacities, or in related fields such as biomedical technology.

 

Mechanical Engineering Job Opportunities

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 15.1 percent of America's engineers are mechanical engineers. Many work in general machinery engineering, such as refrigeration systems; heating, ventilation and air conditioning; or industrial manufacturing equipment. Others work in energy-related fields, helping to develop new sources of energy production or designing methods of energy conversion like power plants and combustion engines. Some design transportation machinery, while others test machines such as vehicles and elevators for safety. There are even mechanical engineers who explore the limits of technology through the design of robotics and automated systems.

A large number of mechanical engineers work in architectural services, engineering services, or scientific research and development. Many jobs are also available working in the manufacturing sector, at colleges and universities, or for the federal government.

 

The Future of Mechanical Engineering

In many ways, mechanical engineers shape the future of industry. Because mechanical engineering is at the forefront of developing and improving products, machines and systems, there will always be a high demand for qualified workers in any sector that relies on the use of mechanical technology. Emerging fields such as biotechnology, nanotechnology and alternative energy technology will also produce an increasing number of job opportunities.

 

Mechanical Engineering Schools & Degree Programs

Associate's Degree in Mechanical Engineering: Entry-level mechanical engineering jobs usually require a bachelor's degree. However, a 2-year associate's degree in mechanical engineering technology makes it possible to start work as a technician, assist licensed mechanical engineers in the field, or transfer to a 4-year program.

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering: Besides technical training in design, computer and simulation applications, and applied sciences, a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in mechanical engineering teaches you the problem-solving and analytical skills that are critical for practicing engineers. Many mechanical engineering students also select a specialty such as aerospace engineering or propulsion systems.  

Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Mechanical Engineering: A master's or doctoral degree enables you to further specialize in a particular area of mechanical engineering, whether you choose to work in the field as an engineer or pursue research. Graduate degree options for mechanical engineers include the Master of Science (MS), Professional Science Master (PSM), or PhD.

Online Mechanical Engineering Degrees:  More and more institutions are offering online bachelor's and master's degrees in mechanical engineering, as well as associate's degrees in mechanical engineering technology. There are even a few online PhD programs in mechanical engineering.
 

 

Mechanical Engineer Salary

The earnings outlook is good for mechanical engineers, for whom the average salary has been increasing over the past few years. The average starting salary for a mechanical engineer with a bachelor's degree is $58,766, while the median annual wage for the mechanical engineering field as a whole is $74,920. Oil and gas extraction is the top-paying industry, with an average annual salary of $93,980. Significantly higher salaries are usually available to those with graduate degrees or many years of experience in the field.

Materials Engineering

What You'll Do in a Materials Science Engineering Career

Materials are a critical component of almost every engineering project, from the silicon in computer chips to the ceramic-coated insulating tiles on space shuttles. Materials engineering careers involve the study, development and testing of materials required in a wide range of manufactured products. Those in a materials science engineering career may work to find new uses for existing materials, or they may use basic types of materials—metals, ceramics, plastics, semiconductors and composites—to create brand-new substances that meet the specifications of a particular project.

Materials engineering entails the specialized study of materials at an atomic and electrochemical level. Most materials engineers focus on a particular type of material, such as metals (metallurgical engineering) or ceramics (ceramic engineering). Besides the design and production of materials, they may be involved in the recycling of materials or in ensuring their reliable and efficient manufacture. These skills are indispensable in a wide range of manufacturing industries where precision of material components is necessary, including transportation, electronics, and biomedical systems.

 

Materials Engineering Job Opportunities

Materials science and engineering careers generally begin on the technical side of the field, such as manufacturing or research and development. Materials engineers usually work on primary materials production, manufacturing of end products which use primary materials, or they're employed by services such as consulting or engineering firms. Some move on to work in consulting, sales or management. Though materials engineers are needed throughout nearly every type of industry, most work in the aerospace manufacturing industry, in architectural or engineering services, or in semiconductor and electronics manufacturing. In your employment search, keep an eye out for job titles like manufacturing engineer, process engineer, or materials development engineer.

 

The Future of Materials Science and Engineering Careers

The field of materials engineering is expected to show 9 percent employment growth over the 2008–2018 period, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, primarily in the professional, scientific and technical services industries. As manufacturing sectors continue to search for more efficient new materials, incorporate recycled or reclaimed materials, and explore pioneering biotechnological and nanotechnological solutions, materials engineers will have a vital role to play.

 

Materials Engineering Degree Programs

Associate's Degree in Materials Engineering: Often, a bachelor's degree is required to start work as an engineer, but 2-year associate's degree programs are available in materials engineering technology or materials science, allowing the degree holder to begin work in a technician capacity or transfer to a 4-year program.
Bachelor's Degree in Materials Engineering: Materials science and engineering careers usually begin with a bachelor's degree—a Bachelor of Science in either the general materials science and engineering field or in one of the specialty areas such as metallurgy or polymers. A few schools offer Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) degrees.
Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Materials Engineering: If you have a bachelor's degree in materials engineering or a related field, you may choose to deepen your knowledge and increase your job marketability with a graduate degree in the subject, such as a Master of Science, Master of Engineering (ME) or PhD degree. A master's degree takes one to two years to complete, and a PhD may require one to two years beyond that.
Online Materials Engineering Degrees: There are numerous opportunities to study materials engineering online, particularly at the master's degree level. Selected schools also offer associate's or bachelor's degrees online.

 

Materials Engineer Salary

Materials engineers who hold a bachelor's degree command an average starting salary of $57,349, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median income for materials engineers as a whole was $81,820 in May 2008. The highest-paying industry for materials science and engineering careers was miscellaneous durable goods merchant wholesalers, with an annual mean wage of $122,680. Other high-paying industries include industrial machinery manufacturing, communications equipment manufacturing, and the federal government.

Industrial Engineering

What You'll Do in an Industrial Engineering Career

While most engineering fields are concerned with specific products, systems or processes, industrial engineering focuses on managing people, organizing businesses and optimizing the use of technology in ways that increase efficiency in a variety of workplace settings. Today's companies need to compete in an increasingly global market, and industrial engineers help them do just that by improving both productivity and quality—whether the result is a streamlined operating room in a health care setting, an optimized production schedule for manufacturing, or a long-range and detailed financial plan.

Industrial engineers may be called upon to perform a wide range of tasks in their effort to reduce wasted time, energy and money in the workplace. They use mathematical models or computer simulations to determine the best possible design for information, production and distribution systems. They work on a managerial level, assisting with strategic planning, financial analysis, salary administration and job evaluation programs. They work with human factors and ergonomics, optimizing the interaction between employees and their physical and technological workplace environment. In short, they make work faster, easier, safer, and more productive.

 

Industrial Engineering Job Opportunities

There are job opportunities for industrial engineers in a mind-boggling variety of industries. Industrial engineering isn't just about manufacturing; it's also called for in service industries, health care, shipping and logistics, banking, entertainment, forestry and logging, the military, and all levels of government. However, the greatest numbers of industrial engineers are employed in manufacturing sectors such as aerospace manufacturing, motor vehicle parts manufacturing, and the manufacture of navigational, measuring, medical and other instruments. 

 

The Future of Industrial Engineering

An ongoing need to improve productivity in order to keep up in a fiercely competitive marketplace, as well as an interest in increased efficiency of production to reduce environmental impact, will ensure that industrial engineers have plenty of job opportunities in the future. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the field will show 14 percent employment growth between 2008 and 2018. As for the future tools of the trade, advanced computer modeling systems and other technology-driven approaches will continue to grow in importance.

 

Industrial Engineering Degree Programs

Associate's Degree in Industrial Engineering: While a bachelor's degree is usually the minimum education required to start work as an engineer, 2-year associate's degree programs are available in industrial engineering technology, allowing the degree holder to begin work in a technician capacity or transfer to a four-year program.
Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering: A bachelor's degree is required by most entry-level industrial engineering jobs. Usually, the first two years of the program are spent studying pre-engineering and general education subjects, while the last two are devoted to core engineering curriculum.
Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Industrial Engineering: Industrial engineers who wish to advance their skills and knowledge in the field may choose to pursue a master's degree or PhD degree in industrial engineering. Graduate degrees usually specialize in a particular area of study within industrial engineering, such as human factors engineering, computer simulation or supply chain management.
Online Industrial Engineering Degrees: Online and distance learning programs in industrial engineering are available at all levels, from associate's degrees in industrial engineering technology to doctoral-level study.

 

Industrial Engineer Salary

The median annual salary for industrial engineers as of May 2008 was $73,820. Engineers with bachelor's degrees generally receive high starting salaries at the entry level: a July 2009 report stated that industrial engineers who held a bachelor's degree earned an average starting salary of $58,358. The highest-paying industry for industrial engineers was commercial and industrial machinery and equipment repair and maintenance, with an average annual salary of $102,940.

Fire Protection Engineering

What You'll Do in a Fire Protection Engineering Career

Fire protection engineering professionals use science and technology to research the causes of fires and determine fire protection methods. Among their many job duties, fire and safety engineers recommend or design fire detection materials or equipment that will help protect life and property against fire, explosion and related hazards.
In order to carry out this role, fire protection engineers might perform several of the following different job tasks:

• Inspect buildings or building designs for potential fire protection problems.
• Advise architects and builders on fire codes and fire protection equipment.
• Create plans to prevent damage or destruction from fire, wind and water.
• Manage the purchase, installation and maintenance of fire protection systems.
• Test construction materials and consumer products for fire safety.
• Remain abreast of local safety regulations and recommend changes to authorities as necessary.

 

Fire Protection Engineering Job Opportunities

From fire departments and government agencies to research labs and forensic investigations, fire and safety engineers enjoy a wide range of career opportunities in diverse organizations. They work in hospitals, colleges, insurance companies and even the entertainment industry. Along with salaried positions, fire and safety engineers can go into private consulting.  

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (DOL), the top industries for fire protection engineering are manufacturing and construction. And the projected employment growth rate for the profession will range from seven to 13 percent between 2008 and 2018, which translates to 9,200 new jobs.

 

The Future of Fire Protection Engineering

Clearly, fire protection engineering saves lives. But people who experience the stress that a fire inherently elicits can forget to trigger fire alarms, fail to follow escape routes, or make other bad decisions that inadvertently endanger people's lives. To compensate for these reactions, fire and safety engineers have turned to technology, and the strides they have made are fascinating.

As an example, active monitoring systems on portable fire extinguishers can initiate a fire alarm signal or notify a building authority of the fire the moment someone lifts the extinguisher. These systems also incorporate obstruction detection technology, which senses whether something is blocking the fire extinguisher, as well as a pressure gauge containing an electrical output that signals when the pressure has fallen below safe operating levels.

 

Fire Protection Engineering Degree Programs

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (FPE) indicates that students interested in fire protection science can take one of two paths: fire protection engineering or fire protection technology. Different colleges and universities offer bachelor's- and master's-level training in both arenas.

In general, fire protection engineering focuses on developing theoretical and engineering skills in the analysis and design of fire protection equipment and materials. Alternatively, the study of fire protection technology emphasizes the application, installation and operation of fire safety systems.

Some schools might offer fire and safety engineering courses as electives that students can take as part of another engineering specialty, which can help build a foundation for an eventual master's degree. Whatever path a student chooses, earning a degree and gaining practical experience are the two key factors toward finding success and job opportunities as a fire and safety engineer.

Online Degree Options for Fire and Safety Engineering

Just a few universities offer online master's degree programs in fire protection engineering, and even fewer offer bachelor's degrees. That said, working adults interested in a graduate-level training in fire protection engineering will find numerous benefits to online education, including increased school choices, cost savings related to commuting, and simply the ability to keep commitments to work and family in the midst of earning a degree.

 

Fire Protection Engineer Salary

According to a 2007 FPE survey, fire and safety engineers earn a median annual income, including bonuses and overtime, of $98,200. The median income for entry-level fire protection engineers is $55,000. Nearly half of survey respondents who work full-time earn more than $100,000 a year. Common benefits for the profession include health insurance, retirement plans, tuition reimbursement and bonuses.

Environmental Engineering

What You'll Do in an Environmental Engineering Career

Employment growth continues to ramp up in the green jobs sector, and environmental engineering is one field in which the opportunities for a rewarding career just keep multiplying. Environmental engineers use scientific and technological principles to prevent or repair harm to the environment, complying with federal and local regulations in the process. They address a range of environmental problems from the broad to the highly specialized, including waste management and disposal, recycling, pollution control, public health and land management.

The type of work available in environmental engineering is just as diverse, with common job tasks encompassing research and data analysis, regulatory compliance, equipment or systems design, and management. Some environmental engineers determine the effects of construction projects on air, water and wildlife, while others help clean up hazardous waste. Still others work to ensure a clean public water supply and adequate wastewater treatment. Essentially, environmental engineers help to improve the quality of life on both a local and global scale.

 

Environmental Engineering Job Opportunities

The American Academy of Environmental Engineers reports that training in environmental engineering opens up job opportunities in any area of environmental protection, but the specific opportunities available may change depending on the priorities of governmental policy and public interest. The industries that most frequently employ environmental engineers include architectural and engineering services; management, scientific and technical consulting services; and federal, state and local government. Universities and testing laboratories also supply jobs.

 

The Future of Environmental Engineering

Employment growth in the area of environmental engineering is expected to be much faster than the average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Increasing governmental and public concern with factors such as population growth, cleanup of environmental hazards, compliance with regulations, and the prevention of future environmental and public health problems means that job opportunities for environmental engineers will be plentiful.

 

Environmental Engineering Schools & Degree Programs

Associate's Degree in Environmental Engineering: While a bachelor's degree is the minimum education required to start work as an engineer, 2-year associate's degree programs are available in environmental engineering technology and related fields. An Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree prepares you to work in support of licensed environmental engineers.
Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Engineering: The majority of environmental engineering jobs require a 4-year degree in the field, or in a related field such as civil, chemical, or mechanical engineering. These may be Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) degrees, depending on the program.
Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Environmental Engineering: An increasing number of employers prefer master's degree holders for jobs as environmental engineers. Master of Science (MS) degrees are usually in environmental engineering or environmental science, and may include concentrations in specialty areas such as hazardous waste management. A doctoral degree provides even more specialized and in-depth knowledge, making you competitive for a wider range of job opportunities.
Online Environmental Engineering Degrees: Currently, the most frequently-offered option for online degree programs in environmental engineering is a Master of Science. Some online bachelor's and associate's degrees are available in related fields such as civil engineering, environmental science or environmental engineering technology.

 

Environmental Engineer Salary

Environmental engineering offers a very competitive salary, with a median annual income of $74,020 as of May 2008. Though bachelor's degree holders may start at the lower end of the scale, around $45,000 annually, professional licensing and on-the-job experience quickly results in salary increases, and a master's degree can add nearly $10,000 to your yearly income. The highest-paying industry for environmental engineers is the federal government, with an average annual salary of $92,750.

Engineering Technology

What You'll Do in an Engineering Technology Career

Engineering technology involves the hands-on application of technical expertise to engineering tasks in a wide range of industries. From building our nation's infrastructure to making our transportation and energy systems more efficient, wherever scientists and engineers are found, so are engineering technicians and technologists. Engineering techs may assist with setting up equipment, conducting experiments, and collecting data, or they may be involved in the design and development end of the process, using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) equipment or constructing prototypes.

A career in the technology of engineering is more narrowly focused than the career of a regular engineer, focusing on applied rather than theoretical knowledge. Most people who work in the field specialize in a particular area, such as aerospace engineering technology,  environmental engineering technology or manufacturing engineering technology, to name just a few.

 

Engineering Technology Job Opportunities

Working in the field of engineering technology most likely means spending a lot of time in a lab, at a construction site, or in a manufacturing or industrial plant. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2008, about 34 percent of engineering technicians worked in manufacturing, while 25 percent worked in professional, scientific, and technical service industries. Many engineering techs work for federal, state or local government, while others work for engineering or business service companies. Depending on your area of specialization, you might find job opportunities anywhere from microelectronics to biotechnology to industrial manufacturing.

 

The Future of Engineering Technology

Because of the continuing need for skilled workers on-site at infrastructure improvement projects such as transportation, pollution control systems, and building and road repair, civil engineering technology is expected to be a rapidly-growing field in the decade to come. Environmental engineering technology is one of the most exciting areas in terms of expansion, with a 30 percent employment growth rate expected over the 2008 – 2018 period. Environmental engineering techs help companies and governments comply with environmental regulations and implement new, cleaner technologies. Some job growth is also expected in the area of industrial engineering technology, where skilled workers are needed to analyze performance, reduce costs and improve productivity.

 

Engineering Technology Degree Programs

Associate's Degree in Engineering Technology: A 2-year associate's degree is the minimum education needed to start a career as an engineering technician. Often, a 2-year program involves training within one of the many engineering technology specialties. Technical institutes, community colleges, university extension programs, vocational schools and the Armed Forces offer associate's degree programs.

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Technology: A 4-year degree specializing in the technology of engineering usually prepares you to become an engineering technologist or even an applied engineer, rather than a technician. If you already hold a 2-year degree in engineering technology, you may be able to transfer some or all of your credits to a 4-year degree program.

Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Engineering Technology: Higher-level jobs may be available to those who complete a master's degree, such as a Master of Science in Engineering Technology (MSET). An advanced degree will teach you a more sophisticated skill set and prepare you for supervisory roles. Doctorates in engineering technology itself are rare, but some engineering techs choose to pursue a PhD in  management or in a specific engineering discipline.

Online Engineering Technology Degrees: An online degree program may be the most flexible option for those who need to work or raise a family while they attend school. Some institutions offer online bachelor's degree programs in engineering technology specialties such as electronics engineering technology. There are even a few online master's degrees available in related areas, such as engineering management.

 

Engineering Tech Salary

Salaries in the field of engineering technology vary widely depending on specialty. In the growing field of environmental engineering technology, the median salary was $41,100, although those working in high-demand fields such as natural gas and electric power transmission generally earned above $60,000 on average. For industrial engineering technology, the top-paying industry was business support services, with an average annual salary of $84,880

Engineering Management

What You'll Do in an Engineering Management Career

Engineering Management is a career that brings together the technological problem-solving savvy of engineering and the organizational, administrative, and planning abilities of management in order to oversee complex enterprises from conception to completion. Engineering managers possess the practical experience as engineers that enables them to apply technical expertise to a project, but it's equally critical that they have the skills to organize and direct projects, as well as manage a variety of personnel, such as scientists, other engineers and support staff.
Engineering managers plan, coordinate, and supervise research, development, and production in a variety of engineering fields. Engineering management job duties may include:

• overseeing the design of machinery, equipment, products or systems
• directing production, quality assurance or maintenance
• designing and assessing the feasibility of new products or processes
• coordinating with other units, such as management, financial or marketing

 

Engineering Management Job Opportunities

In order to take advantage of the job opportunities available in engineering management, an engineer needs to have excellent communication and business management skills in addition to technical expertise in their specific field of engineering. A large percentage of jobs—36 percent—are in manufacturing industries, while 33 percent are in scientific, professional and technical services, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many job opportunities are also available in government agencies. In your employment search, keep an eye out for job titles like engineering manager, project manager, director of engineering, and principal engineer.

 

The Future of Engineering Management

The rapidly growing fields of biomedical and environmental engineering present the most promising job prospects for future engineering managers. Environmental engineering managers focus on applying engineering skills to solving environmental problems in areas such as pollution control, waste management, recycling, or vehicle emissions. Engineering management in the biomedical field involves supervising research and development to address medical and health-related problems, whether it's designing new devices and imaging systems or assessing procedures such as care delivery and medical information systems.

 

Engineering Management Degree Programs

Engineering management degrees are currently available for the following degree types:

• Associate's Degree in Engineering Management: One early step on the road to an engineering management career is an associate's degree in an engineering-related discipline. An associate's degree usually prepares you for a job as a technician, but it can also lead to further education such as a bachelor's or master's degree.
   
• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Management: There are a couple of options for undergraduates interested in becoming engineering managers: bachelor of science or bachelor of engineering degrees in a specific field such as mechanical engineering, or bachelor of science degrees specializing in management science or engineering management. In either case, prospective engineering managers will need to follow up their bachelor's degree with on-the-job experience in both engineering and management.
   
• Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Engineering Management: Bachelor's degree holders may also opt to continue their education and pursue a master's degree in engineering management (MEM), a master of business administration (MBA), or a master's degree in a related field such as operations research. Some doctoral degrees are also available in these areas.
   
• Online Engineering Management Degrees: Although options are currently limited for those wishing to pursue an undergraduate engineering management degree online, several institutions offer online master's degrees in engineering management (MEM), and online MBA degrees are widespread.

 

Engineering Manager Salary

As of 2008, the median annual salary for engineering managers reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics was $115,270. Salaries for the middle 50 percent of people employed in engineering management ranged from $91,870 to $141,730. The highest wages were earned by those in the spectator sports industry; those working for business, professional, or political organizations; and those employed in the information services industry.

Electrical Engineering

What You'll Do in an Electrical Engineering Career

If you want to be on the cutting edge of new technological development, electrical engineering may be the career for you. Whether it's a motor for the latest electric car, a navigation system used in GPS devices, or a wind turbine power system for efficient energy production, an electrical engineer was involved in its design and manufacture.

Though the term electrical engineering is often used interchangeably with electronics engineering, the two areas have slightly different emphases. An electrical engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and supervising the production of electrical equipment and systems, in fields ranging from transportation to lighting and wiring systems to power generation and transmission. Electronics engineers focus more on communications, signal processing, and other electronics systems.

Electrical Engineering Job Opportunities

Job opportunities are good for electrical engineering graduates, despite a few minor obstacles. Cutbacks in government funding for research and defense programs cause slowdowns from time to time in engineering job opportunities. In addition, international competition in product development as well as engineering services has limited employment growth. However, engineers who stay up-to-date with technology and continue their education throughout their careers will remain competitive.

The Future of Electrical Engineering

Looking forward, electrical engineers can find rewarding work in the burgeoning fields of alternative energy, biomedical technology, and personal technology. With an increasing emphasis on secure, cost-effective and environmentally efficient energy solutions like solar and wind power, engineering jobs abound in areas such as wind turbine energy and power system security. Electrical engineering also factors into the development of medical imaging systems and instrumentation, wireless communications devices and consumer products.

Electrical Engineering Schools & Degree Programs

The following degree programs are available for students desiring to become an electrical engineer:

• Associate's Degree in Electrical Engineering: Although a bachelor's degree is the standard starting point for a career as an electrical engineer, job opportunities are also available for associate's degree holders. Schools may offer 2-year degrees in fields such as computer programming, electrical technology, renewable energy, and electronics engineering technology, leading to employment at the technician level.
   
• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering: A Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in electrical, electronics or computer engineering generally leads to a job as an engineer, while a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology or a Bachelor of Engineering Technology leads to employment in practical design or production, such as a technologist position.
   
• Master's and Doctoral Degrees in Electrical Engineering: For those interested in more advanced research and development positions or in teaching engineering—or for those who simply want to broaden their horizons and learn new technology—a master's-level or doctoral degree may be desirable. Common graduate degrees in electrical engineering include a Master of Science (MS), Master of Engineering (MEng), or a PhD.
   
• Online Electrical Engineering Degrees: Increasing numbers of colleges are offering Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Master of Engineering degrees either wholly or partially online. This can be an ideal option for those already employed in electrical engineering who would like to expand their knowledge of the field.

Electrical Engineer Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineers earn among the highest starting salaries among bachelor's degree holders: a July 2009 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers indicated that electrical and electronics engineers earn an average starting salary of $60,125. Generally, master's degree holders earn about $10,000 more than bachelor's degree holders. The average salary for electrical engineers overall is $70,941. Electrical engineering salaries increase dramatically with even a few years of on-the-job experience.