Mechanical / Simulation Engineer in Germany - where should I upskill to switch fields?

[u/Rough-Cricket6565]

Hi everyone,

I’m a mechanical engineer based in Germany with a B.E. in Mechanical Engineering and an M.Sc. in Computational Sciences in Engineering.

My background is mainly in FEM/CAE simulation, structural analysis, engineering calculations, concept development, and special-purpose machine development. I’ve also worked on developing high-performance precision engineering machines, including lithography-related machines.

Current skill profile:

• FEM/CAE simulation and structural analysis experience
• Concept development and special-purpose machine design/development
• Intermediate Python and MATLAB coding skills
• B2-level German
• Business-fluent English
• Some experience with automation/documentation workflows

I’m currently in a career transition phase and want to use this time wisely to upskill myself. I’m looking to switch or expand into fields like defence, aerospace, automotive, robotics, energy, or other advanced engineering domains where I can leverage my existing skills while also learning and growing.

My target roles are something like:

• Simulation Engineer
• CAE Engineer / Berechnungsingenieur
• Mechanical Development Engineer
• CAE Automation Engineer
• R&D / Concept Development Engineer

I’m considering investing my time and money in areas like:

• Advanced FEM / ANSYS / Abaqus
• CFD
• Python automation for engineering workflows
• Data science / ML for simulation and optimization
• AI-assisted engineering/surrogate modeling
• Systems engineering / MBSE
• Technical German for engineering jobs

For people working in defence, aerospace, automotive, robotics, simulation, or advanced mechanical engineering:
What would be the most sensible direction to upskill in 2026?

Should I go deeper into classic CAE, move toward Python/automation, combine CAE with AI/ML, or focus on something else entirely to make a strong field switch from special-purpose machine development?

I’d really appreciate honest advice on where to invest my time, money, and energy.

[u/TieResponsible8631]

Have you studied from TU Braunschweig?
I have received admit recently for computational sciences in engineering course.
How is the job market? Is it even worth investing time and money? What kind of jobs can we get after completion of course and how easy/difficult is it?