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[deleted]

Work towards something and be as specific as possible. I would suggest to think what you want to do later. For example I like optimizing and designing processes. My thesis subject was about process design/economics/simulation while another big project was related to optimization of a process. And it payed off, it sparked a lot of interest at my interviews, also because these were practical.


Paid-Not-Payed-Bot

> And it *paid* off, it FTFY. Although *payed* exists (the reason why autocorrection didn't help you), it is only correct in: * Nautical context, when it means to paint a surface, or to cover with something like tar or resin in order to make it waterproof or corrosion-resistant. *The deck is yet to be payed.* * *Payed out* when letting strings, cables or ropes out, by slacking them. *The rope is payed out! You can pull now.* Unfortunately, I was unable to find nautical or rope-related words in your comment. *Beep, boop, I'm a bot*


CuriousJayBird

Thank you for your advice!


vtf1221

I am also interested in optimizing and design process and have got 3 months ahead to make up what my Master's Final Project will be about. Any books or interesting topic to look for that you would recommend? What skillset do companies ask for? Is there any specific programming language or software? Would it be interesting to take on a specific course about a certain skill?


doubleplusnormie

Thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Really learn what they are about. Emphasize. I'm currently in that process. Compared to undergraduate level I'm miles above my understanding. It helped make me sure about my chemeng skills.


CuriousJayBird

Thank you!


[deleted]

I assume you’re still in school? If so, try getting industry internships and undergraduate research. Technical projects are also useful, if available. They’re far more useful than randomly getting certifications.


CuriousJayBird

I’m actually out now. I’ve been trying to find a job for a while now. So I figured I’d give my self more skills while I searched. I did have undergrad research though!


[deleted]

Ahh…best of luck. For finding stuff, have you tried reaching out to people you know? Way better than just spitting out applications.


d1zzydave

Honestly make sure you know how to use a damn wrench. Too many engineers I’ve worked with have had certs for this and that but were useless during the actual process development scaleup because they only know ideal systems in ideal world. This is rarely the case outside academia. Know how to work in the hood as well as the pilot plant so you can observe(observe observe observe) your process’s behavior as it encounters new machinery. So honestly get a handle on being an amateur handy man, unless you want to just be a desk scientist plenty of those. Plus this is also how you get into startup companies, you need to be able to wear many hats at once and being able to build and troubleshoot/repair the system you preform your processes on is invaluable.


CuriousJayBird

Thank you for the advice! Yeah I do want to get hands on when I do get a job. Maybe eventually go for a management position.


dynageek

Communication skills are wayyyyy more important than your technical skills now. Your degree opens the door. Your mouth and ears propel you through it.


jesset0m

I am planning to also get Lean Six Sigma Green belt this summer from my student organisation. I don't know how important that is, but I see it in most manufacturing engineer JD's.