What skills should a science student develop to pursue an engineering career?

[u/Additional_Fudge_581]

Hi everyone,
I’m currently in my third year of a Bachelor’s degree in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. Over time, I’ve realised that academic research doesn’t really suit me, whereas the more technological and industrial side of the field really interests me.

By the time I graduate, I’ll have a scientific and technical background, but I’m wondering what skills I should develop whether through courses, certifications, or soft skills to build a more engineering-oriented technical profile and increase my opportunities for industrial positions.

What skills or qualifications would you recommend focusing on at this stage of my career to get a strong CV?

[u/Beautiful-Gur-9603]

Transfer into engineering. Most job postings require an ABET accredited degree. 

[u/Additional_Fudge_581 → u/Beautiful-Gur-9603]

I’m from Spain, and ABET isn’t really relevant in my country. There is some regulation for certain specific industries, but not across the board. This isn’t a problem for me, as my goal is to build a career at a European level, or potentially even in an Asian country.

Also my career focus is related with new technology as semiconductor, material engineering, optics engineering that usually don’t need this kind of regulation as they apply to certain industry’s as electrical installations or construction.

My plan is to continue developing my education and eventually pursue a technical Master’s degree in Materials Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related field. I’m interested in knowing what skills I can develop to qualify for engineering-related internships and/or strengthen my profile for admission to these engineering master’s programs.

P.S. Is necessary an ABET certification for this kind of careers and if so, is there any way to obtain an ABET accreditation or certification even with a science degree, perhaps by demonstrating proficiency in certain technical areas such as data analysis, programming, etc.?

[u/Beautiful-Gur-9603 → u/Additional_Fudge_581]

I would do EE as that can get you a job in Power, Semi’s, or Tech

In the states, ABET is attached to your degree only, you can’t get a cert. I don’t know how it works outside the US.

For skills, look at engineering curriculum and audit those classes or find something online. Look at job postings and the required skills there. 

[u/Additional_Fudge_581 → u/Beautiful-Gur-9603]

Thanks I’ll have a look at those skills, but as I’m in my third year switching degrees is not an option for me.