Changing careers from the manufacturing to MEP industry has been an interesting transition during my first month at Summer Consultants. These two drastically different fields of engineering have broad overlap in soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem solving, but I have enjoyed the challenge of learning new hard skills like AutoCAD, IES, calculations, system types, and equipment. It feels like I am starting over, as I get adjusted to new drawing standards and engineering processes. Calculations are another adjustment as fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and thermodynamics are more prevalent than my previous role that focused on statics and mechanics of materials.
My previous role in manufacturing delt with internal product development, so working on projects with many different clients, disciplines, and specifications has been a new adjustment. I also greatly appreciate the rigorous internal drawing reviews and QC checklists, as I have seen firsthand how a less standardized review process can lead to avoidable problems. Overall, changing fields has been an exciting way to gain new perspectives and appreciation on the engineering process.
