Mechanical Engineers are arguably one of the most important backbones of society. Their innovations have led to the creation of some of the most useful pieces of equipment and tools across the world.
It all started from the early days, when catapults, steam engines and clocks were used across society1. Now we are seeing aircrafts, robots and household appliances. It could be said that the foundations of our way of living are due to the creations of Mechanical Engineers. As time has gone on, they have continuously invented, and the results are what we see around us today.
Mechanical Engineers design machines that produce power, or anything that requires movement. They use a combination of engineering, mathematics and material science to design, analyse and manufacture mechanical systems. They are involved from the beginning, and to the end, of the product life cycle.
To become successful with this career path, there are a few essential skills that need to be developed. It all starts from communication. This social element is needed as you will be working across teams and communicating with various people to get a new product launched. Starting all the way from the research and design phase, the communication skills are important.
Physics is also vital. You need to develop an understanding of how the world around you works. It all comes down to science, and you need to be able communicate this in scientific terms. But you will also need to be able to convert these scientific terms into words that others, without the scientific background, can understand.
As stated by Seek, as a Mechanical Engineer, you will be required to analyse problems so that you are able to identify the requirements of the project2. Once established, you will design and develop mechanical devices, which in turn will result in the creation of prototypes. You will test to see what works and what doesn’t, and then analyse the results. This in turn will require the modification of the prototype so that it meets the project requirements.
At Sydney Institute of Business and Technology (SIBT), we can help you on your path towards becoming a Mechanical Engineer. Your first step is to begin your Diploma of Engineering. Here, you will learn how to think logically, from analysing problems to exploring solutions that can solve the challenges that our world faces now and in the future. You will develop practical and communication skills so that you are able to gain an entry level engineering technician position. Some of the core units you will study include physics, materials science and engineering, fundamentals of engineering studies, computing for engineers, and mathematics. Interdisciplinary skills are implemented during your studies at SIBT. You will develop cross-functional skills while studying mechanical engineering which also gives you an opportunity to choose the career of your dreams.
After your diploma completion, if you would like to study further, you can progress directly to the second year of your bachelor’s degree at Western Sydney University, Sydney City Campus. Your course options include a Bachelor of Engineering Science or a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours), where you can specialise in mechanical engineering. Here, you will learn about the design of mechanical systems and be delivered with a hands-on laboratory program so that you have the skills required for machine designs, including functionality, safety and reliability. You will be working with engineering consultancies to give your career opportunities a boost. Professional recognition for course completion includes Provisional Accreditation from Engineers Australia at the level of Professional Engineer.
From here, you can begin your career as a Mechanical Engineer. Industries include mining, building services, manufacturing, transportation, aeronautical and aerospace, to name a few. The average annual salary for mechanical engineering jobs in Australia ranges from $95,000 to $115,0003.
1. Lucas, J. (2014). What is Mechanical Engineering? [online] livescience.com. Available at: <https://www.livescience.com/47551-mechanical-engineering.html>
2. SEEK (2019). Mechanical Engineer. [online] Seek Career Advice AU. Available at: <https://www.seek.com.au/career-advice/role/mechanical-engineer>
3. SEEK. (n.d.). Mechanical Engineer Salary in Australia (2022). [online] Available at: <https://www.seek.com.au/career-advice/role/mechanical-engineer/salary>
Begin your career with an SIBT Diploma of Engineering in just 8 or 12 months, or fast-track to university.
