There are many definitions of engineering – some serious:
- Scientists study the world as it is; engineers create the world that has never been.
- Engineering is the application of scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, systems, and processes. It involves problem-solving, creativity, and innovation to create solutions that improve our world.
And some tongue in cheek:
- Structural engineering is the art of modelling materials we do not wholly understand into shapes we cannot precisely analyse so as to withstand forces we cannot properly assess in such a way that the public at large has no reason to suspect the extent of our ignorance.
It could be said that this tongue in cheek definition is a little too close to the truth for comfort – but let’s not examine that now.
There are many engineering disciplines, and they are all incredibly important to every aspect of modern life. All engineers come from a four-year university degree (at least) in which they study a vast array of complex scientific and mathematical concepts.
But one thing they are not taught at university is what we now call the “soft skills”. And, perversely, it is usually the proficiency in these “soft skills” that will determine an engineer’s ultimate success.
In the business world today, it is assumed that all consulting engineers are excellent technically – and they must be to survive in this cut-throat environment. But unless they also possess the so called “soft skills”, they will remain a consulting engineer – even if they are the best technical engineer in the field. And it must be stated that, of course, industry needs these people. But the engineer who becomes a leader in their organisation must be more.
So, what do we mean by “soft skills”? In simplistic terms we mean things like:
- Relationship building
- Communication skills
- Emotional intelligence
- Listening skills
- Creativity
- Writing skills
- Leadership
The difficult part is that, in many cases, soft skills are more difficult to gain as many of them are natural abilities or personality traits. Thus, it becomes critical for you to be able to identify those soft skills you do possess and enhance them.
Any engineer wanting to enhance their soft skills requires a proactive commitment to continuous learning. This starts with self-reflection and an assessment of your current skill set. Take time to identify areas that need improvement, focusing on those areas listed above. Step out of your comfort zone – this is crucial for growth.
It’s never too early to start honing your soft skills. As an undergraduate, you will naturally focus on acquiring technical competence, but it is also important to start identifying your natural soft skills and ways to enhance them. As an undergraduate you will be encouraged (even required) to spend time working parttime in the industry. Choose where you work carefully. Look for organisations that display those soft skills you have or wish to acquire. People in these organisations will help you develop those skills once they see your enthusiasm.
How do you find those organisations?
Attend the industry presentation events your university provides or go to industry seminars – there are lots of them on throughout any year. Talk with some of these organisations – you will quickly find those that display the characteristics you want. Speak to these people – ask them for parttime work. Generally, organisations love to come across students who are proactive and enthusiastic and will readily accommodate your needs. We at Texcel always have a few of these students working with us and we are always on the lookout for more.
As a general observation: most organisations will take a qualified engineer who demonstrates strong soft skills over one who is more technically competent but has low soft skills. It is hard to over emphasise the importance of soft skills in business. At the end of the day these skills are what separate the ordinary from the extraordinary. And we all want to work with extraordinary people doing extraordinary things.