The United States has the world's largest GDP, which currently stands at around $13 trillion. This makes it the most powerful economy worldwide. Since the United States is the largest manufacturer, engineering is an attractive option for those who aspire to pursue careers in this field. The role of engineering is the application of knowledge derived from a variety of fields such as science and mathematics to develop solutions for humanity's practical needs.

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	The engineering course load is usually heavy, and students need to put in long hours to meet their programs' requirements and obtain satisfactory grades.

Engineering consists of a variety of disciplines, such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, electronics engineering, and computer applications engineering. Its study requires aptitude and imagination. Engineering is a highly satisfying and rewarding career field and offers its members prestige in contemporary society.

Currently, engineers are in great demand in the corporate world. There are always requirements for engineers in sectors like manufacturing, software, information technology, and research and development. For this reason, engineers command high salaries and can expect long-term employment opportunities.

The remuneration that engineers receive is commensurate with their experience, so their salary range spreads over a broad spectrum. Employers consider a variety of factors before they finalize salaries. Some of these factors include previous experience, responsibilities, education, training, and employer credentials.

These days, newly graduated engineers can expect to earn approximately $45,000 a year. Senior engineers can expect to earn around $90,000. There is no upper limit for engineers with exceptional experience and skills.

The minimum educational requirement for becoming an engineer is an Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology (ABET) accredited degree or a degree from a recognized engineering program. Students are required to have an appropriate understanding of high school-level mathematics and physics and some knowledge of computer programming or related studies. Admission requirements vary slightly from one university to another, so it is advisable to inquire with programs' offices about specifics.

Completing an engineering program is no simple task. The course load is usually heavy, and students need to put in long hours to meet their programs' requirements and obtain satisfactory grades. Many students choose careers after graduating. Others go on to pursue higher qualifications such as master's and doctoral degrees in engineering, as well.

Many employers require that their employees be professionally qualified; for example, they might need to obtain licenses or become members of professional bodies. Licensure not only enhances an engineer's status but also reflects competence and positions him or her for advanced employment opportunities.

Furthermore, experienced licensed engineers can anticipate getting impressive projects and prestigious placements. Some employers even reimburse licensure application fees to employees who successfully obtain their engineering licenses. Licensed engineers enjoy considerable privileges. Some government jobs are only open to licensed engineering graduates. In some cases, only licensed engineers can officially represent their companies to public authorities.

Most states have also made possessing a license a legal necessity. Licensed engineers are eligible to utilize the abbreviation PE (professional engineer) after their designations. ABET-accredited engineering degree candidates must possess at least four years of work experience and pass the Fundamental Engineering (FE) Exam. Most states accept additional work experience in the cases of non-ABET engineering degree holders. Candidates are also required to pass the Electrical and Computing Examination, usually referred to as the PE examination.

Even though the path to a career in engineering may sound complex and intricate enough to discourage prospective applicants, it is a path that many have taken in the past and have found immensely satisfying. If an applicant has the right qualifications, a career in engineering is well worth considering.

On the net:

Central Intelligence Agency
www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/print/us.html

Kick Your Career Up a Notch—Become a Licensed Professional Engineer
www.todaysengineer.org/2004/May/pe.asp

Who Makes a Good Engineer?
www.engineeringcareersecrets.com/content/view/16/33

Education Requirements for Engineers
www.engineeringcareersecrets.com/content/view/17/33

Why Become a Licensed Engineer?
www.engineeringcareersecrets.com/content/view/49/34

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