Consider a Career in Engineering Management

James Bond is cool. His forays into political warfare and agility on the open road are unmatched. But, were it not for a team trained in engineering management, Bond would simply be Jimbo. For example, an engineering manager led the team that crafted Bond's parachute, innovated his getaway car, and project managed his covert op. Intrigued? Discover just what engineering management means.

Engineering Management Careers: Who Fits the Bill?

Most engineering management students have several similar characteristics:

• An analytical approach to problem solving
• An interest in structure, whether of buildings, roads, technology or societies
• Strong communication skills and the desire to lead, often under pressure

Engineering Management Careers: A Buffet of Choices

These roles could be yours as an engineering management professional:

• Project Manager. The Spielberg of the job site, this person directs activity and keeps the project on schedule.
• Construction Management Engineer. No two days are the same when you're managing the employees, machines, and materials.
• Cost Systems Analyst. Finding creative ways to allocate funds, the CSA keeps the project within budget.
• Lead Product Engineer. From gadgets to gizmos, this innovator merges creativity with logic, putting ideas on the shelves.
• Technology Manager. This professional builds and maintains virtual systems that connect companies and societies.
• Operations Manager. Thank the operations manager at your company who has designed and implemented the processes keeping the ship afloat.

These are just a few paths from which to choose, whether you are an undergraduate, a master's graduate, or have acquired a certificate in engineering management.

Engineering Careers: Why it Makes Cents

Engineering management professionals are in high demand. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, "…engineering and accounting graduates are more likely to have started their job search and have a job in hand." Act now, though. The competition could be stiffening since CNNMoney.com concluded that systems engineers have the "Best Job of 2009" considering pay, growth potential, and quality of work.

Adding icing to the cake, research conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that of the top five highest paid disciplines for a recent grad, engineering degrees are awarded four. In 2008, civil engineers earned a median salary of $74,600, mechanical engineers earned $74,290, electrical engineers earned $82,160, and environmental engineers earned $74,020. To capitalize on this pay-potential, consider project management, electrical engineering, or general engineering as your specialties, particularly with a management degree.

A Career in Engineering: Map it Out

Particularly in today's global economy, engineers can find positions nearly everywhere. Your best bet is to seek a metropolitan area or a locale where a company is headquartered. Engineering management professionals are typically consulted by a company's chain of command. To prove your worth, be in the hub of the action.

Engineering Careers: The Network

The engineering management family founded the Engineering Management Society, or EMS, which provides a community for current and aspiring professionals. From publications to conferences and educational resources, EMS ensures that its members are informed and encouraged to grow within the profession.

So, let Bond risk his life scaling bridges. Take pride in the knowledge that were it not for your engineering management studies, that bridge would not be standing.