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Job outlook for engineering interns in the United States
Engineering internship job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected engineering internship job growth rate is 0% from 2018-2028.
About -100 new jobs for engineering interns are projected over the next decade.
Engineering internship salaries have increased 8% for engineering interns in the last 5 years.
There are over 66,249 engineering interns currently employed in the United States.
There are 97,722 active engineering internship job openings in the US.
The average engineering internship salary is $41,918.
Are engineering internship jobs in demand?
Engineering internship job and salary trends over time
Engineering internship jobs over time
Engineering internship job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 66,249 | 0.02% |
| 2020 | 68,558 | 0.02% |
| 2019 | 70,959 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 74,650 | 0.02% |
| 2017 | 74,077 | 0.02% |
Average engineering internship salary over time
Engineering internship salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $41,918 | $20.15 | +1.3% |
| 2024 | $41,398 | $19.90 | +1.6% |
| 2023 | $40,755 | $19.59 | +1.9% |
| 2022 | $40,011 | $19.24 | +3.3% |
| 2021 | $38,740 | $18.62 | +1.5% |
Engineering internship jobs by state
Most common states for engineering interns
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 325 | 47% |
| 2 | Delaware | 961,939 | 216 | 22% |
| 3 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,697 | 20% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,367 | 20% |
| 5 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 835 | 20% |
| 6 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 141 | 19% |
| 7 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,360 | 18% |
| 8 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 186 | 18% |
| 9 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 972 | 17% |
| 10 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 536 | 17% |
| 11 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 223 | 17% |
| 12 | Alaska | 739,795 | 129 | 17% |
| 13 | Vermont | 623,657 | 107 | 17% |
| 14 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 98 | 17% |
| 15 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 982 | 16% |
| 16 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 260 | 14% |
| 17 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 247 | 14% |
| 18 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 148 | 14% |
| 19 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 478 | 13% |
| 20 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 417 | 13% |
Most common cities for engineering interns
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Annapolis | 20 | 51% | $43,643 |
| 2 | Lansing | 21 | 18% | $36,273 |
| 3 | Hartford | 20 | 16% | $43,738 |
| 4 | Des Moines | 26 | 12% | $41,668 |
| 5 | Little Rock | 24 | 12% | $42,457 |
| 6 | Baton Rouge | 26 | 11% | $48,974 |
| 7 | Atlanta | 36 | 8% | $38,889 |
| 8 | Urban Honolulu | 21 | 6% | $49,741 |
| 9 | Boston | 32 | 5% | $38,323 |
| 10 | Denver | 32 | 5% | $42,057 |
| 11 | Washington | 31 | 5% | $60,496 |
| 12 | Wichita | 21 | 5% | $40,548 |
| 13 | Indianapolis | 37 | 4% | $34,945 |
| 14 | Sacramento | 21 | 4% | $59,258 |
| 15 | Phoenix | 25 | 2% | $50,206 |
| 16 | San Jose | 25 | 2% | $59,291 |
| 17 | San Francisco | 20 | 2% | $59,577 |
| 18 | San Diego | 19 | 1% | $56,980 |
Engineering Internship job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of engineering internship experts
University of Florida
Clemson University
Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis
Columbia University in the City of New York
Arizona State University
San Jose State University
Dillard University
Alfred University
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
SUNY College at New Paltz
East Tennessee State University
University of Utah
University of Connecticut
Hope College
Wilkes University
Robert Morris University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Boston College
What general advice would you give to an Engineering Internship?
Dr. Evren Koptur PhD: The technology world is a dynamic and evolving all the time. So first and foremost, for any recent graduate should cultivate and sustain his or her curiosity. Technology is a fast-paced rollercoaster, and staying curious will keep you ahead of the curve. Dive into the latest trends, explore emerging technologies, and be hungry for knowledge.
Additionally, a robust foundation is your armor in the world of engineering. Whether it's coding, mathematics, or fundamental engineering principles, ensure your basics are rock solid. However, theory alone won't cut it. Hands-on experience is the magic ingredient. Seek out internships, co-op programs, or immerse yourself in personal projects. The real-world application of your skills will set you apart. I think this is the area where Kent State College of Aeronautics and Engineering excels. Majority of our courses in Engineering Technology are based on industry standard certifications.
Moreover, networking is not just a buzzword; it is the reality. Connect with fellow engineers, participate in industry events, and engage with online communities. The relationships you build can open doors to opportunities you might not have imagined.
Another important trait to gain is adaptability. It is a non-negotiable trait. The tech landscape is constantly changing, and those who can adapt thrive. Embrace new ideas, technologies, and methodologies with an open mind.
Finally, celebrate your successes, big and small. Engineering is a challenging field, and acknowledging your achievements, no matter how minor, keeps you motivated for the next leg of your journey.
What Engineering Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Evren Koptur PhD: First of all invest in your education and consider obtaining relevant certifications. Higher degrees and specialized certifications can make you stand out and command higher salaries. Here at Kent State Aeronautics and Engineering, we design majority of our engineering and engineering tech courses according to industry standard certifications. I have witnessed this on multiple occasions. Resumes or CVs featuring certifications consistently rise to the top of the stack during the job application review process. Secondly, focus on specializations that are in high demand. Research the current and future trends in the industry and tailor your skills accordingly. Fields like AI, cybersecurity(Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 32 percent from 2022 to 2032 according to a recent study), and data science often come with higher earning potential. Additionally, gain practical experience through internships or co-op programs during your studies. Real-world experience is highly valued by employers and can lead to better-paying job offers upon graduation. Moreover, you should build a strong portfolio. Highlighting tangible examples of your work can demonstrate your capabilities to potential employers and justify a higher salary. Finally, networking. Build a strong professional network. Attend industry events, connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, and engage in conversations. Networking can lead to valuable opportunities and insights into salary expectations.
What will help Engineering Interns increase their earning potential?
Andreas Enqvist: Embrace opportunities and challenges! We see a lot of our graduates gaining opportunities that might be at the periphery of that they have studies at university etc, but that is normally a testament to their skills and the ability to excel in multiple different roles. Believing in yourself and accepting and pursuing some of those career opportunities that might be near the edge of our comfort zones, can often lead to very exciting career opportunities. There is a tremendous need for graduates in our field, and each graduate should not hesitate to explore multiple options and the opportunities that comes with their degree.
How have salaries changed over time for Engineering Interns?
Dr. Wayne Sarasua: A good source for salary information is the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) website. Median salaries for civil engineers have trended in the right direction as far back as I can remember and historic data supports this. Salaries are typically a bit higher in the private sector than the public sector. But recent graduates should be weary of focusing on trying to get the highest entry level salary possible. I'm a strong believer of "money can't buy happiness." In the private sector, the higher your salary, the higher your billing rate. Thus, if you make $30 an hour to start, you may be billed to a client at a rate of $100 an hour. Your productivity needs to cover your billing. Thus, you will be under less pressure the less you make. Something to think about when you are just starting out.
Peter Schubert Ph.D.
ProfessorIndiana University Purdue University Indianapolis
Electrical and Computer Engineering Department
What's a day at work look like for an Engineering Internship?
Peter Schubert Ph.D.: Engineering is a team sport. Meeting face-to-face by Zoom or teams is not a complete substitute for working shoulder-to-shoulder with colleagues. The different configuration of on-line collaboration means more individual work, less socialization, and therefore the esprit de corps may not be as strong. Working with colleagues around the world has always been a part of engineering, and people are now more skilled at this. By not working within a cubicle farm or open concept collaboration center, without conversations at the water cooler, and over beers after work, means that interpersonal connections may not be as strong. I think people will miss this, and want to return to it, once restrictions are lifted.
George Deodatis
ProfessorColumbia University in the City of New York
Civil Engineering and Engineering Mechanics
What's a day at work look like for an Engineering Internship?
George Deodatis: In the short term, there is going to be significant remote work done with limited time spent in the office. But long term, hopefully, the amount spent in the office close to senior colleagues will go back close to pre-pandemic levels. This is important for the mentoring process of entry-level engineers and cannot be fully duplicated remotely.
How have salaries changed over time for Engineering Interns?
Jim Helm Ph.D.: Salaries have continued to rise. There are more open positions in cybersecurity than there are qualified individuals available to fill the position.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Engineering Internship job market given the pandemic?
Jim Helm Ph.D.: Within Information Technology, we will see more of a transition to working remotely. Many companies have found productivity has increased by employees who work remotely. Of course this is not possible for all IT disciplines, but there are many cybersecurity and networking functions which can be done remotely.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Engineering Interns?
David Wagner: This pandemic will only endure if graduates allow it to continue to impair themselves. There is no question that the switch to online schooling has changed higher education, but I see positive outcomes every week of educators changing their methods so that students can learn in better ways. This also highlights the importance of soft skills and the ability to market yourself. The first assignment for my senior capstone students every year is to submit a resume so that they always have one on-hand if a good job comes their way. In short, there will always be a need for engineers, but it is up to the student or graduate to synthesize their skills and hone them in order to get their dream job; however, there will likely be some non-dream jobs along the way.
What's a good job out of college for Engineering Interns?
David Wagner: Simply put, some of the best jobs out of college are the ones that pay. That is to say, not everyone is offered a paid job with benefits upon graduating. Some contracting work is typically involved, which can be on a short-term basis and work into a long-term or permanent position. A good job is when you, as the employee, and your employer are mutually benefitted from your presence. If you feel welcome at work, then you'll do a better job; it is that simple for some graduates. If, however, you want to move up from technician to engineer to manager to executive, or anywhere in between, then a good job will allow this ascension. On the other hand, being your own boss is a great job as well as long as you are disciplined enough to do so. Ultimately, there is a cost-benefit analysis you will have to perform, either consciously or subconsciously, as to what you define a good job and what obligations you have upon graduation.
What will help Engineering Interns increase their earning potential?
David Wagner: I see graduates benefit the most when they learn skills, apply those skills, and communicate how those skills helped them. While this is much easier said than done and it can be time-consuming to learn skills in addition to your education, there is absolutely no substitute for a person that has accrued knowledge and its application and then knows how to use it to their benefit. Certifications, learning badges, project applications, and even letters of recommendation convey to people that you know aspects of your discipline well and can apply them to other disciplines and jobs seamlessly. Skills get you hired; success gets you promoted; you get yourself paid.
Lovell Agwaramgbo Ph.D.
Professor of ChemistryDillard University
Department of Chemistry
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Engineering Interns?
Lovell Agwaramgbo Ph.D.: There may be a short term, negative impact of COVID-19 on graduates with respect to employment, emotional drain, and experiences. The severity of these depend on how soon the pandemic is contained, how quickly the economy recovers, and when the hiring freeze is lifted. Unfortunately, graduates will be impacted differently. Graduates with social network, resources, and right skills will find jobs and adapt faster than their counterparts with skills not sought after. Those with experience in computer and data science, information, and other technology related areas will find employment easier. Graduates who majored in areas that require face to face skills such as chemistry, where experiments require personal interaction with chemicals and analysis tools, would be affected more than those who can work from remote sites. For us, it was essential that we expose our students to the needed hands-on experiences, skills and techniques in chemistry. To maintain social distancing our laboratory occupancy dropped to 50% or less in order for us to have face to face laboratory activities.
At Dillard University, the pandemic metaphorically moved our good old sweet cheese (as in the fable "who moved my cheese"? by Spencer Johnson) and imposed on us Zoom, Google Meet, Canvas, Pronto and other different learning platforms. Like Scurry and Sniff, we tried to find new cheese source with the hope of finding opportunity, satisfaction, collaboration, engagement, and creativity in those new teaching and learning platforms. Similarly, graduates who take inventory of their skills and knowledge but also have passion, determination, discipline and strong work ethic will always find ways to overcome any shortcomings posed by the pandemic. Zoom job interviews and meetings and hybrid work schedule models will be lasting impacts of the pandemic. However, like Hem and Hall, graduates who find it difficult to adapt and see opportunity in such a change will feel betrayed, disappointed, lost, and probably depressed.
The pandemic created hardship for everyone including the graduates and industries alike, but it also created new opportunities. In the February edition of the chemical and engineering news, it was reported that employment for those with bachelor's degree was lowest in 2020 due to the pandemic as many industries initiated hiring freeze. Thus, with the current employment for new graduates dips southbound from pre-pandemic level, I recommend that graduates should consider graduate education or certification in areas that will add value to their skills, employability and earning potential as options. Certainly, the clouds of the pandemic will soon clear and the sun will shine again for those who are prepared.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Engineering Interns?
Lovell Agwaramgbo Ph.D.: The certifications/licensures and courses that can have the biggest impact on job prospects are degree dependent. In STEM fields, technology was an engine that kept afloat many sectors during the pandemic. For non-technology-oriented science majors, getting certified in coding, Phython, etc., will increase a student's skill set and job prospects. For a chemist, certification in coding, analytical tools (HPLC, GCMS, AA, and NMR), computational chemistry, bioinformatics, and water remediation and management will guarantee employment.
Students should consider getting a certification in an interdisciplinary area within their field of study that proved to be relevant during the pandemic.
We have been discussing majors of growth potential with the Hanover Group and based on their recommendations we are in the incubation stages of developing new but relevant majors, built-in minors and certifications; particularly those that are interdisciplinary in nature.
How have salaries changed over time for Engineering Interns?
Tim Keenan Ph.D.: I am a relatively young biomaterials engineer, and so I cannot draw from a long career of working in this field, but I can say that I would not have spent nearly a decade in school to obtain knowledge across mathematics, chemistry, biology, and engineering if the statistics had not suggested that it would eventually be worth the time and effort. As any graduate with a degree related to biomedical engineering surely knows, this is not a niche field, but rather, a nearly all encompassing one, and so it is very difficult to point to the history of the salaries of one particular cohort of professionals to answer this question. With that said, it is generally suggested that with increased demand comes increased opportunity, and so with an ever-increasing global population and expanded life expectancies, and now with an accrued backlog of patients awaiting medical procedures, it is logical to assume that this industry will continue to grow, along with the salaries of its employees. One point which graduates should also consider is not only the salaries associated with positions, but where those positions are located, and how the employer is willing to allow you to work (i.e. on-site vs. remotely). When surveying the data on starting salaries, as I did when deciding my career path, there is often little consideration for the cost of living associated with where those types of jobs may be located. A large number of the companies associated with this sector are situated in some of the most expensive places to live across the entire country, both in terms of real estate costs and taxation, and so some of the salary information may be misleading if those additional factors are not also considered. So, although there is no doubt that graduates in this field can expect to earn a relatively high starting salary, I would urge them to consider their offers in terms of both salary and cost of living, so they can determine which is the most financially advantageous, especially if they are exiting their education with loans which need to be repaid.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Engineering Interns?
Stuart Bernstein Ph.D.: The pandemic hit us unexpectedly, unlike the last two recessions the construction industry managed to survive. I point that out to say that leading up to the pandemic, the industries and customers we normally built for were still planning and designing projects, expecting them to continue. Much of the industry, that I am aware of, has continued to build, albeit with sparser workforces, which would indicate there should still be a lot of work to catch up on when the pandemic clears.
On the other side of that argument, businesses are finding they are functioning effectively with their employees working remotely. This could trigger them to reduce, or nearly eliminate, their need for physical plants in the future. This, in turn, could leave a lot of current spaces vacant, triggering a slow down on building new, and increasing rehab. If this does happen, there will be an even bigger demand for mega data centers, and, of course, there is still a need for medical facilities, assisted living, and retirement homes.
What's a good job out of college for Engineering Interns?
Stuart Bernstein Ph.D.: Every company seems to have a different title for their new CM hires. Assistant CM, Field Engineer, Office Engineer, Assistant Engineer. There is a long standing discussion about the best place for a new graduate to start.
One camp believes they should start in the field where they will be exposed to many of the different components of and methods used in the construction project process. By seeing it first hand, they become more familiar them.
The other camp believes they should start in the office where they will assist their senior colleagues in developing estimates and schedules, which will teach them about the components and processes and how to better interpret construction documents. Wherever they start, and whatever they are called, they need to be alert, taking in everything around them, and asking good questions. If they are assigned to the field, they should get into the office occasionally to see what they do, and vice versa. And asking questions about anything they don't fully understand, after first trying to figure it out on their own.
What technical skills for an Engineering Internship stand out to employers?
Stuart Bernstein Ph.D.: I have found that employers want their new hires to have at least a working knowledge of, and familiarity with, all of the technical skills, such as estimating, scheduling, surveying and document control. More importantly, though, they are looking for people with interpersonal, teamwork, and leadership skills. They want people who will fit well with the personality of company, who will be able to work well with others, who can solve problems on their own and with the help of others, and who can communicate well with people from all different walks of life, and professions, including owners.
Kevin Shanley Ph.D.
Associate Professor & ChairSUNY College at New Paltz
Division of Engineering Programs
What's a day at work look like for an Engineering Internship?
Kevin Shanley Ph.D.: Work is going to be a blend of in person and virtual meetings. I suspect this will continue well into the future. I suspect that travel will decrease. While COVID-19 has its grip on us, workers will likely rotate days in and out of the office. Some new hires may go months if not years without meeting some colleagues in person.
What technical skills for an Engineering Internship stand out to employers?
Kevin Shanley Ph.D.: Critical thinking and problem solving are still the big draws. Obviously, employers are looking for flexible team players now more than ever.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Engineering Interns?
Kevin Shanley Ph.D.: Yes, I think the effects will stay with all of us for quite some time.
Jared Wilson
Assistant Professor and Faculty CoordinatorEast Tennessee State University
Surveying and Mapping
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Engineering Interns?
Jared Wilson: The goal for the surveying and mapping program at East Tennessee State University is to educate students in the field of land surveying and mapping. The hope is that the students find gainful employment in that field and obtaining professional licensure, in a given state, is a significant motivator for employers. However, a significant factor that I have noticed is the successful passing of the Fundamentals of Surveying, FS, exam in conjunction with the four-year degree. This combination of education and successful completion of the first hurdle in examinations, seems to open many doors for job seekers in the field of surveying and mapping.
What's a good job out of college for Engineering Interns?
Jared Wilson: Within the field of land surveying and related employment opportunities, work is available. However, in my experience, work may not be in the exact location a person wishes to live. So, a move may be necessary, or potentially traveling to where the work is located. Should a graduate, or person for that matter, want to work, work is available.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Engineering Internship job market given the pandemic?
Jared Wilson: The information I have been provided is positive, when the outlook is concerning the workload job market, that is being performed by the professional land surveying and geomatic industry. Land surveying, and subsequently land surveyors, have been deemed essential; thus, work is still being performed. The profession, as a whole, is driven highly by the status of the economy, and in the current economic state, the current workload is in demand. Thus, graduates should be able to find gainful employment regardless of the impact COVID-19 has. As with all professions, adaptation is necessary, and the profession is adapting well.
What's a day at work look like for an Engineering Internship?
Anthony Butterfield: For many engineers, the workplace has always required strict adherence to safe procedures and the use of proper PPE. The pandemic has brought such requirements out of our laboratories and plant floors and into our office spaces, but I feel any employee at a company with a health safety culture will easily adapt to these new restrictions. The most striking difference for the typical workday is the absence of in-person meetings and the limitations on socializing with coworkers outside of work. Most seasoned engineers know their career has been helped significantly through a mentor or friend in the workplace. I think the pandemic makes giving attention to the human aspects of an engineering workplace all the more important, even if they have to be done through a screen.
What technical skills for an Engineering Internship stand out to employers?
Anthony Butterfield: I would say the skills that stand out in an interview and early on in someone's career would be:
-Strong conceptual understanding of core engineering concepts. Knowing the exact form of, say, the fluid dynamics equation you need to use is less important than having a reflexive understanding of the relationship between pressure and flowrate. You can look up exact equations quickly, but foundational conceptual understanding of the physics needs to be at the ready.
-The ability to apply their technical understanding to innovate. Many students will graduate with the same ability to code, and the same understanding from core engineering courses. The skill that will bring extraordinary value to your workplace is the ability to creatively apply that knowledge.
-The ability to quickly and flexibly pick up new technical skills. People want new employees who are able to quickly pin down the gaps in their understanding, seek out the resources they need to connect it to what they do know, and then assimilate that new skill or concept into their work.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Engineering Internship job market given the pandemic?
Yupeng Chen Ph.D.: Although it is difficult to find jobs because of the pandemic and slow economic recovery, candidates with good professional skills and education background will be more competitive than before. For example, technology companies (such as IT, biotech and pharmaceuticals) are still hiring while many other industries are heavily affected by the pandemic.
What technical skills for an Engineering Internship stand out to employers?
Yupeng Chen Ph.D.: Impacted by the pandemic, employers will prefer candidates who can work remotely and communicate effectively in a virtual office environment, so it is very important for candidates to get familiar with general office software as well as commonly used virtual communication platforms.
Ned Nielsen
Professor of Engineering DesignHope College
Engineering Department
What experience really stands out on Engineering Internship resumes?
Ned Nielsen: Employers are looking for engineering graduates who have had an internship and who have some type of international experience. Since not many engineering graduates have international experience, those who do are highly sought after.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Engineering Interns?
Robert Taylor: It is difficult to guess what impact C-19 will have, since we are still in the middle of it. To date, companies are still hiring EE graduates. Many companies are still working face-to-face (F2F) and are using social distancing and other acceptable protocols. Graduating seniors last and this year have taken many hands-on labs and therefore are prepared for the hands-on work environment. For future graduating classes, which have participated in more remote learning and "artificial" or simulated lab environments, they may experience some issues going from the remote to hands-on environment. On the other hand, those students would be better prepared for simulations (and gaming) better than the previous classes. Many schools, and ours included, are trying to prepare the engineering students for both the simulated AND the F2F labs by using simulations and sending kits to the students for home practice labs. The jury is still out on the "home lab" results!
What's a day at work look like for an Engineering Internship?
Robert Taylor: For the recent graduate, the day at work will be a continuation of C-19 protocol. That will not change until we obtain "herd immunity" for C-19. That said, however, we all still get the normal flu and its mutations and we get the common cold, also a coronavirus. The good news is that the C-19 exercise has re-taught us the necessity for germ prevention...staying at home when we are sick, using better protocols for cleaning of hands & surfaces, and "social distancing." I do also think that the recent graduate will be prepared for his new "days at work" based on the discussions I have had with last year's graduates and their employers. One must remember, we are preparing students for the academic and practical needs of engineering students!
What technical skills for an Engineering Internship stand out to employers?
Robert Taylor: Employers that I talk to want engineering students to have a firm base of applied physics and sufficient mathematics understanding so they can design items, improve items and the like. I see engineers as "creators" of a sort, and creation covers inventing, improving, fixing, and even teaching and communicating technical issues with others. Software skill also are extremely important. The most important thing that most skill that the engineering managers that I converse with report that the most successful engineers have "system" understanding...how a design is to work, what it must interface with, and how it might fit in an overarching system. Finally, all engineering employers I talk to what our engineers to be able to ask AND ANSWER the following question: does what I have done "make sense?"
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Engineering Internship job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Benjamin Campbell Ph.D.: I have heard from CEOs and Presidents of companies that have embraced working from home and are considering keeping this arrangement for several of their work groups, even after the pandemic. Allowing remote work decreases the need for expensive office space (especially in high rent areas like Silicon Valley or New York City) and virtual meetings cut travel costs. A company can recruit worldwide and invite a prospective employee to live anywhere that has a high speed internet connection. Employees value the flexibility, comfort, and non-existent commute of working from home. There are sectors where managers and their teams have adjusted well to working remotely. As long as the productivity doesn't suffer, I feel this trend will continue.
For those recent graduates entertaining the workforce, they will need to demonstrate the ability to work remotely, and manage their own schedule when they don't have an office structure surrounding them. This can be conveyed in an interview by talking about their online education during the pandemic, and the work ethic they developed managing a course load of synchronous or asynchronous online courses with individual and group assignments. An internship that required working remotely is another great talking point in an interview. Discuss a typical day on that job, the technical challenges faced and the solutions developed under the adverse circumstances of the pandemic.
What technical skills for an Engineering Internship stand out to employers?
Dr. Benjamin Campbell Ph.D.: When I talk to employers of engineers two key skills tend to stand out: problem solving skills and communication skills. These skills are very difficult to develop quickly on the job, but a new employee that can demonstrate strength in these two areas can quickly integrate into a team or train into a job that requires specific technical skills. Communication skills can be assessed verbally during the interview. If it's a virtual interview for a remote job, present yourself like you will be representing their company: professional dress, clean and unclutters backdrop, practice eye contact into the camera with clear speech, and make sure there are no external distractions or noises (pets, roommates, etc). Sometimes the interviewer will request an impromptu writing sample. Communication skills can also be assessed before the interview with how quickly and professionally a prospective employee responds to the company's requests for information. Problem solving skills are often assessed by asking the job candidate about a difficult technical problem they faced and the how they solved it. Be prepared with several examples in mind and prioritize them by the tasks that are most relevant to the job description or the interests of the interviewer. Having a portfolio on hand or some unique visual aids can leave a distinct impression; and if virtual, have files readily accessible if you need to screen share but have an uncluttered desktop and inoffensive computer wallpaper. Some interviewers will assess both problem solving and communication skills simultaneously through role playing the solving of a technical problem or asking for a pseudo-code solution to a programming task.
What's a good job out of college for Engineering Interns?
Dr. Benjamin Campbell Ph.D.: For the recent graduates, I recommend you get any job that challenges you, where you can build experience relevant for your desired career. It's rare to find your dream job right out of college, but a savvy engineer can identify jobs opportunities that will promote skill building and mobility for motivated employees. Ask the interviewer if there is support available for continuous improvement; inquire about training across the organization to better understand how the company functions. Beware of jobs that confine you to a very limited and repetitive role. If the job isn't challenging, you likely aren't growing as an employee or building your resume for the job you want. Also, work the current job like it's your dream job. Many promising candidates have lost offers when references are checked and previous employers give lackluster assessments. Always keep an eye to the future by watching for new opportunities; build out your network with the people you meet through work, professional organizations and networking events. Very few people perfectly fit a job description; take a chance interviewing if you feel you can develop the job skills you lack but don't exaggerate your qualifications to compensate. Don't be afraid to make a change if you aren't happy in your current job, but avoid burning bridges on the way out. Another option for recent graduates is to seek out a promising start-up and offer to work for lower pay in exchange for equity in the company. At this point in your life you probably have the low expenses (other than college loans) and ample free time (if you are single with no kids and no mortgage) that you could direct into working the long hours needed to make a startup successful. A small company requires employees to wear many hats while working with other motivated people in a high risk but high reward environment. If the company fails or you burn out, take your experience and move on. If the company is successful, your equity will minimize your financial concerns while you decide what your next job should be.
What technical skills for an Engineering Internship stand out to employers?
Ge Wang Ph.D.: As mentioned above, the AI stuff has attracted immediate attentions. The relevant courses will prepare our students better for the job market in the next several years. RPI has been promoting these things for a number of years, as an integral part of our strategic plan. Partnership with IBM and other companies is also invaluable.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Engineering Interns?
Kristen Labazzo Ph.D.: Having a solid core academic foundation is always important, and certificates can be useful, but I think for industry preparedness, a co-op or internship is the best experience. Experiential learning truly immerses you in the environment, and puts all of the academic learnings into context.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Engineering Internship job market given the pandemic?
Janet Kolodner Ph.D.: It looks like the new government will make a lot of public service and infrastructure positions available. That's good. There will be jobs up and down the ladder-administration, management, craft work, etc. People who are feeling entrepreneurial might start businesses in areas where businesses have closed down; we've lost a lot of small businesses: retail, restaurants, personal services. Those who owned many of those businesses won't want to start again; there will be lots of room for new blood as we become more vaccinated as a population and ready to eat out and get our nails and hair done, go on vacations, and buy things we've put off.
What Engineering Internship skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Janet Kolodner Ph.D.: Communication skills, collaboration skills, imagination skills, project skills, computational (computer) skills related to what they are interested in doing. There are plenty of online classes for computaional skills; communication, collaboration, project, and imagination come through getting involved with others on projects. Getting involved in something that helps them feel a sense of purpose and that has them working towards goals with others will do the trick.
What general advice would you give to an Engineering Internship?
Janet Kolodner Ph.D.: I know people need to eat and have a roof over their heads. The important thing, however, is to not settle for the wrong thing too soon. People should think about what they enjoy and what gives them a feeling of purpose, think about what they might want to accomplish over a lifetime (or in the next 5 or 10 years), and make sure they choose to do something that will put them on that path. Or, if they don't know what they want to accomplish, they should think hard about the joy they might get (or not) from a position and the extent to which it uses their strengths well. They shouldn't be afraid to try out something they haven't thought about if they are thinking it could offer possibilities of enjoyment and accomplishment. We can't all do exactly what we think we will be doing, but we often can make the most of what's available.