Mech. Design Eng. - solid interest. IT/Databases - a new one. How to combine?

In summary, the conversation discusses the speaker's interest in design engineering and their strengths in analytical and visual thinking. They also mention their experience working on a design project and a software project during an internship. The design project had some negatives, but the software project was challenging and had a significant impact on the department. The speaker is considering pursuing a career in IT, specifically complex database design. They mention their previous interest in medical device design and ask for potential niches to explore. They also mention considering a postgraduate degree in software engineering, but want any career changes to be gradual. They clarify their understanding of IT and mention their English is not their first language.
  • #1
rowardHoark
15
0
I am very much interested in design engineering, development of consumer, scientific and medical devices. My favourite aspects of engineering include mathematics, CAD and computational engineering. I would say that my key strengths lie in analytical, mathematical thinking and very strong visual/3d thinking.

Working as an intern in a company, I had the opportunity to work on a design project and a software project.

I enjoyed the design project, but it had some negatives. It was not knowledge intensive, some of the CAD parts where simply common sense geometrical shapes, based on no mathematical computation. The project strongly depended on ordering off-the-shelf components, making sure the workshop technicians manufacture the right parts, thus wasting time and money. Non the less I am passionate of how mechanics and electrics integrate into a single product. I love technical drawing.

I also had to develop a database, using MS Access, VBA. Although the programming element was small, mastering MS Access to create a very sophisticated multi-user database was quite challenging. It involved 100-eds of unique information fields, which had to be manipulated using quite complex mathematics to produce predictions and plots in different types of reports. It involved graphical GUI design, which turned out very sleek and aesthetic. The project made a significant impact on the whole department, automating data storage, manipulation and report production. It was knowledge intensive, I had much to learn and going to work was an actual exercise for the brain (like a brain gym, you are being paid for - very nice). The work was also in a comfortable office environment, no greasy workshops (I look forward to your comments, mech engineers :D). IT work is also very portable and flexible. There is couple in Sweden, specialising in MS Access design, who live in house near a lake, in a countryside, making their living designing databases for companies.

My previous vision was to go into medical device design, specialising in mechanical design engineering. Mechatronics was also a future direction, e.g. robotic surgical systems. But the database project really opened a new perspective for me. Also, there is a unprecedented demand for IT jobs, and I can see why - it can have a very significant impact, and is relatively little material (metals, plastics...), resource, location dependant.

Are there any potential niches I can start exploring, given my existing passion for product design and newly found IT interests?

I will be a 3rd year undergraduate.
 
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  • #2
Most IT jobs involve setting up computers, installing updates, network adminstration, etc. Complex database design is generally done as part of computer science type projects, so if that is your interest I would focus on computer science and not IT.
 
  • #3
Floid said:
Most IT jobs involve setting up computers, installing updates, network adminstration, etc. Complex database design is generally done as part of computer science type projects, so if that is your interest I would focus on computer science and not IT.

I was thinking of a Software Engineering postgraduate degree, although I feel it's too much of a different field for a mech eng. If I do any career changes - I want them to be gradual, maybe taking some modules at a uni, while working.

P.S. English is not my mother tongue. When I think IT - it's application design, software, embeded systems, expert systems.
 

Related to Mech. Design Eng. - solid interest. IT/Databases - a new one. How to combine?

1.

What is mechanical design engineering and how does it relate to IT and databases?

Mechanical design engineering is the process of creating, analyzing, and optimizing mechanical systems and components. It involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software, as well as knowledge of materials, mechanics, and manufacturing processes. IT and databases play a crucial role in mechanical design engineering by providing tools for data management, simulation, and automation.

2.

What skills are necessary for someone interested in pursuing a career in mechanical design engineering and IT/databases?

A strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and computer science is essential for a career in both mechanical design engineering and IT/databases. In addition, having a creative and problem-solving mindset, as well as excellent communication and teamwork skills, is important for success in these fields.

3.

How can mechanical design engineering and IT/databases be combined to improve the design process?

The integration of IT and databases into mechanical design engineering has greatly improved the design process. CAD software allows for faster and more accurate design iterations, while simulation tools help test and optimize designs before physical prototyping. Databases provide a centralized location for storing and managing design data, making it easier to collaborate and share information with team members.

4.

What industries utilize the combination of mechanical design engineering and IT/databases?

Mechanical design engineering and IT/databases are used in a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, consumer products, and manufacturing. Any industry that requires the design and development of complex mechanical systems and components can benefit from the use of these technologies.

5.

What are the future prospects for someone with a background in mechanical design engineering and IT/databases?

The demand for individuals with skills in mechanical design engineering and IT/databases is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. With advancements in technology and the increasing use of automation and data-driven processes, the need for professionals who can bridge the gap between mechanical design and information technology will only increase.

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