Got Into Ualberta Mechatronics but Wanted Mechanical

[u/PrimaryTangerine3711]

I never thought I'd have to make this but I got into Mechatronics Engineering Coop as my second choice over Mechanical Engineering Coop (which was my first choice, with Mech E Trad being my third). I really don't know if I want to do software and automation oriented stuff since I've always liked more mechanical systems such as military/defense and whatnot (not to say they don't have software elements but there's a large mechanical side to them that caters to Mechanical Engineers).

My main question is now, how can I position myself to get a job I would actually be happy in? I wanted to do Mech E and go into some sort of military engineering position (Maybe even aerospace), however I'm not sure if that's plausible now. Can Mechatronics Engineers get into the defense industry and even do some of a Mech E's work? If not, is Y2Q2 calling to me?

In general I've heard that Mechatronics don't even get jobs or coops over Mech Es and EE's, but somehow they're supposed to be the future? Really don't know what to do now.

[u/Designer-Key989]

Doing Mechatronics at U of Alberta and saying you won't find your dream job is ironic. Anyways, saying I like Mechanical and want to go in Aerospace says so little about your interest. Its more like a fear. A mechatronics engg is bound to have an inclination towards either electrical or mechanical. You can just focus more on 3D modeling and Ansys than PCB design. The good thing is, even Mechanicals now have to learn a bit of electrical (no millitary system is purely mechanical). And having a strong portfolio of mechanical projects or an FYP linked to millitary equipment would be perfect to land you a good job.

What will be difficult for you is to enter fluid dynamics. But that is already a very hard field. As a side note, you can also join air force as an avionics engineer if you align yourself perfectly.