APM Supports Engineering

Engineering Pathways

From a young age, we can help equip our kids to have a successful future in engineering and other STEM-related careers.

When we think about inspiring today’s kids to be tomorrow’s engineers, we want to look at the pathways available from a young age to guide them to a career in engineering. Inspiration, support, and a strong education can equip them with the necessary knowledge, skills, and confidence.

According to the Department of Labor, more than 65% of today’s students will have careers that do not exist yet. Students need STEM education and skills to give them a proper foundation for these future occupations. Some argue that early STEM is as critical today as early literacy exposure.

Kick-starting an interest in engineering

In many ways, engineering comes naturally to humans. We are a species of problem-solvers, tool-users, and communicators. Children are naturally curious and explore their environments. Participating in STEM activities with children helps galvanize this natural aptitude. A study from Purdue found that exposing kids to STEM in elementary school — specifically between the first and third grade — provides students with the foundation necessary to fulfill an increased number of STEM-related careers.

Supporting kids in STEM education

During middle school and high school, it’s essential to continue supporting STEM interests. Studies have shown that by 6th grade, there is a rapid decline in interest in STEM. By enrolling kids in extracurricular activities, that interest can be maintained. 78% of students said afterschool experiences with STEM gave them a more positive attitude toward STEM in general. Finding unique ways to engage students in STEM can also help. An artistic child can get involved with engineering design or product illustration. Creativity doesn’t exist only in the art classroom but also in engineering. Kids who like playing outside in the dirt can explore agricultural or environmental engineering. Connect their interests with one of the many different areas of engineering. 

Higher Education & Licensure

Most engineering careers require a degree. Usually, students get a degree in one specific area of engineering. And some engineering careers may require one to earn a Professional Engineer (PE) certification. Preparing students for the cost and workload of higher education helps them complete their goals. 

Interestingly, many employers now hire people without formal degrees, especially in computer engineering. With the internet, there are many ways to teach yourself now that companies like IBM only require a degree for half their listed jobs. Completing boot camps and certificates is a quick and easy way to learn the necessary skills for employment. 

Engineering Careers

The engineering world offers various thinkers, makers, and problem-solvers many opportunities. Some of the many varieties of engineering include

  • Chemical
    • Biomolecular
    • Materials
    • Molecular
    • Process
    • Corrosion
  • Mechanical
    • Acoustical
    • Manufacturing
    • Optomechanical
    • Thermal
    • Sports
    • Automotive
    • Power Plant
    • Industrial Plant
  • Civil
    • Environmental
    • Geotechnical
    • Structural
    • Transport
    • Utility
    • Water Resources
  • Electrical
    • Electronic
    • Computer
    • Power
    • Optical
  • Interdisciplinary
    • Agricultural
    • Applied
    • Biomedical
    • Biological
    • Building Services
    • Engineering Design
    • Energy
    • Information
    • Industrial
    • Mechatronics
    • Engineering Management
    • Military
    • Nanotechnology
    • Quantum
    • Nuclear
    • Petroleum
    • Project Engineering
    • Railway
    • Software
    • Supply Chain
    • Systems
    • Textile

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