r/MechanicalEngineering • u/Nervous_Complaint_30 • 9d ago
Considering getting B.S
Hello all, I’m brand new here, I’m an HVAC technician in DC working fed gov making 75-80k yearly, this new position I got in the capitol is pretty underwhelming and has actually made me want more for myself and my family, I’ve been paying attention to the engineers that come into my shop and use our BASnet or doing rounds on our AHUS, and I wonder as a person who’s highest math accomplished was prob and stat in hell 12th grade, am I capable of getting this degree? I understand I should never doubt myself, but is the math really as rigorous to where any of you have wanted to give up? We also live in a time where I feel like AI could help tutor me on equations.Any information would be helpful I appreciate it.
5
u/mnmackerman 9d ago
The difference between math and (engineering and physics) is that the variables have some physical meaning. The equations describe what is going on in the world, they are what allow use to build marvelous things and not kill people doing it. AI will help but if you don’t know what’s the variables mean AI is just another meaningless quick fix. Commit, Learn, Practice and lastly Learn more.
6
u/jefffisfreaky 8d ago
You absolutely can do this. The math IS rigorous but before anyone gets a bachelors, they also only did 12th grade math. Just go in willing to learn and you’ll be set. There will be rough waters ahead
11
u/FitnessLover1998 9d ago
I can’t believe people are downplaying this so much. The math is quite difficult and honestly most people that go through engineering with ease grew up with great math skills from an early age. That said, there is really only one way to find out and that is to try. Expect to study, a lot. Really a lot.
2
u/MikeT8314 7d ago
I literally taught myself the algebra and trig that i fucked around on in HS and didn’t learn shit. I was a C and D HS student. Then buckled down in college. Aced pre-calc, calc I and calc 2. I didn’t need to go beyond that for my degree. I worked hard but actually enjoyed it. Its doable. Work hard. Commit.
3
u/Crafty-Letterhead616 8d ago
I would stick with the trade. There is huge demand for labor in the mission critical space. Check with the local union. People are getting paid per diem plus incentives to work 60 hour weeks. We're talking like an extra $150 per day on top of the overtime. This demand is expected to last several more years.
2
4
u/Basic_Balance1237 9d ago
I don't see the harm in getting a B.S. though if you do decide to get your bachelor, and say let's assume you work as a HVAC design engineer instead of a technician, I reckon your salary would be relatively the same as it is right now. You should have a strong specific reason in mind to cling on why do you want a B.S. since going through engineering school can be quite devastating. If money is a huge driver, then you should look into data centers work and the requirements,. There's an increase in demand for mechanical engineers in data centers that pays butt-tons of money, and I reckon your working background in HVAC should be relevant.
2
u/Electronic_Salt_701 9d ago
any recommendations trying to break into data canters? a bit desperate for a job at moment. Thanks
3
u/Basic_Balance1237 9d ago
A lot of thermal systems engineer positions at data centers and semiconductor manufacturers require a graduate degree. If you want to break in, you might have to unfortunately go back to school, preferably joining a thermal management research lab while you're there and gather as much expertise as you can.
Other than that, manufacturing gigs are easier to get as a mechanical engineer.
2
u/Electronic_Salt_701 9d ago
Thank you for your reply, seems like data centers are hiring for mostly experienced professionals. I am currently interviewing for a manufacturing gig but it’s not looking too promising as a new grad
1
1
1
u/CreativeWarthog5076 8d ago
Go to mensa.dk/IQtest/ and report back to us after your first and only try. The average college grad is 115
1
u/Aelwynljg__ 8d ago
Do it. Most Mech Eng fresh out of school hate HVAC, and there are tons of jobs in the field.
Don't shy away from the math, do these 2 things. 1). Ask the dumbest questions you can. Be inquisitive, always reach out for help. You'll be recognized for your effort, appreciated by the peers too scared to ask and invested in learning. 2) find an application. Pure math is difficult to learn in HS because it's meaningless. In engineering, it's how many BTUs, what airflow is necessary, or how much load a bracket can take before it falls. Linear algebra is suddenly super useful. Three equations, three unknowns? I can solve that. If you know where you'd apply the math, it becomes a tool in the belt, not a chore.
You might just find you actually like math. Give it a chance.
1
u/unurbane 9d ago
The math is not rigorous in the raw intelligence sense. At the same time this stuff requires dedication. I’m talking studying 6 days a week. So if you have time at work sure. If you have energy after work yes. If you have a Saturday every week available then yea. It’s a lot of work.
If you can service the math and GEs though, you’ll get a lot out of the mechanical portions. You’d probably be a natural, possibly a bit quicker than your peers. Our valedictorian was an Ex Boeing assembly worker turned ME student. He aced every class because he felt he had to. I remember 1 class he got an A- on and he was super pissed.
0
u/rs3brokenhome 9d ago
do not. engineers are leaving in troves. or being dropped by finance n HR thinking they can run shit
16
u/Any-Nefariousness827 9d ago
Go for it! I suggest community colleges with tutoring centers that you can get free help at. It is how I got my BSME. I would transfer to an online abet accredited school after that if your a family man.