A Path to Engine Design for Young Mechanical Engineers

The world of engine design is a niche but exhilarating sector within the broader field of mechanical engineering. For young mechanical engineers aspiring to excel in this specialized field, the journey can be both challenging and rewarding. This article explores the steps, challenges, and opportunities available to those looking to kickstart their career in engine design.

The Specialization of Engine Design

Engine design is a highly specialized discipline that requires a deep understanding of mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science. Knowledge in this area is often confined to small, experienced teams who hold a wealth of proprietary information. These teams often have a low turnover rate due to the high job satisfaction and the complexity of the work. Successful engine designers typically have accumulated a significant amount of expertise over the course of their careers.

Entry Points into the Field

For aspiring engine designers, there are several paths to consider. One common route is joining large automotive or industrial manufacturing companies that have structured graduate training programs. These programs typically span several years and are designed to fully equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to become proficient engine designers.

However, the long training period and the high costs associated with it make this path a significant investment. Another key factor to consider is the job market's current state, where employee mobility is high. This makes the risk of joining a company and not finding a place in the long term even greater.

To reduce these risks, some companies prefer to hire individuals who can quickly bring value to their team. Possessing expertise in specialized design packages such as Ansys is highly advantageous. These design tools are often tailored to the specific needs and intellectual property (IP) of the company, making finding out which software specific companies use a challenging task. However, this also means that those with prior experience using these tools have a significant head start.

Research and Networking

To increase your chances of finding the right position, start by researching which software packages large companies like Ford or Volkswagen use for engine design. For instance, Ford is known to use Ansys for its engine development work. Armed with this information, look at other companies that use the same software and target them for job applications. At the same time, keep your eyes open for job openings in the engine design department at these companies. Your experience with specialized design software will give you a competitive edge over other candidates who don’t have this experience.

For those who prefer a more direct approach, you can also ask specific and targeted questions on platforms like Quora, such as 'What software packages does Ford use for their engine design?' This will provide you with valuable insights and narrow down your choices to companies that are using the specific software you are familiar with.

Personal Experience

My professional journey has included working as a principal controls and instrumentation engineer for Ruston Diesels Ltd, an engine manufacturer. During my tenure, I was responsible for designing the control interfaces (CI) for each type of engine and overseeing its installation and testing. I often worked closely with colleagues from the core engine design department, providing me with valuable insights into the field of engine design.

The most enjoyable part of my job was the opportunity to push the boundaries of science fiction into practical engineering solutions. Despite the occasional need to adhere to strict confidentiality agreements, the job brought immense satisfaction and excitement. After my time at Ruston Diesels, I transitioned into consultancy, working with various clients worldwide. This experience further solidified my understanding of the engine design field and the challenges and rewards it offers.

Conclusion

Becoming a successful engine designer is a challenging but rewarding journey. By leveraging your existing skills and knowledge, targeting companies with the appropriate design software, and continuously learning about the latest industry trends, you can position yourself for success in this specialized field. Whether you choose to join a large corporation with a structured training program or find a niche in a smaller company that values your unique skills, the path to engine design is full of opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking technological advancements.