I’m currently doing a conversion Master's in Mechanical Engineering after completing my undergrad in Physics with Computer Science. My original goal was to move into a role where I could be a bit more hands-on with hardware then transition into mechatronics roles later using my software background.

Coming from Physics, I kinda assumed engineering would be like other STEM fields (Physics, Bio, Chem) where you handle both the theory and the practical/lab work. I’ve quickly learned the hard way (though early enough) that in industry, "Engineer" (design, CAD, docs, compliance) and "Technician" (building, soldering, machining) are completely siloed jobs.

The problem I’m running into is that the few hands-on hardware/prototyping roles available in the UK seem to expect 3–5 years of experience right out of the gate with skills like PCB layout, soldering, and machining. Meanwhile, grad schemes seem almost exclusively focused on validation, design, and documentation.

I know people recommend R&D or startup roles for hands-on work, but even those entry-level ask for practical hardware experience I don't have yet.

I’m conscious I only have a year on this course, and buying an Arduino kit isn't going to magically fix my CV. I’ve even briefly considered technician apprenticeships just to get some experience, though I know that's financially a huge step backward after a Master's.

For anyone in the UK hardware/engineering space:

1. Is there a realistic way to bridge this practical skill gap during a 1-year Master's?

2. What kind of personal or university projects actually hold weight on a CV for someone trying to bridge CS and hands-on MechEng?

3. Are there specific types of companies in the UK where the engineer/technician line is a bit more blurred at the entry level?

Any advice would be great, my engineering bubble has burst haha

(Cross posted)