Better to have a degree

If you’re a degreed engineer or programmer, stop reading.

This column is for those who have aspirations of being an engineer or programmer who do not have a college degree. Those without a degree probably have a tougher time, because they have more to prove than their degreed colleagues.

Let’s first look at some job requirements that a manufacturer might post when seeking a manufacturing, process or industrial engineer: a bachelor’s degree in manufacturing or industrial engineering, demonstrated knowledge of machining, ability to read blueprints and shop drawings, strong written and verbal communication skills, computer literacy, CAD/CAM experience, attention to detail and accuracy, and the ability to manage, prioritize and balance multiple tasks while working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Many of the requirements are necessary. How else can someone be a manufacturing, process or industrial engineer without knowledge of machining and the ability to read blueprints? Strong written and verbal communication skills? Of course. And how can an engineer function without being computer literate in this day and age? Highly organized with attention to detail and accuracy? Perhaps it’s OK at some companies to ship parts without the required surface finishes or with incorrectly sized O-ring grooves, but I don’t think so. As anyone who has worked for a manufacturer or job shop knows, it is a given that workers must manage, prioritize and balance multiple tasks and work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.