Solve problems and shape the world around you with a career in engineering or environmental sciences. From civil and mechanical engineering to environmental management and sustainability, explore career pathways that combine innovation with real-world impact. Access the education, training, and job resources you need to succeed.
The modern zipper, windshield wipers, and even the microwave oven were all invented by engineers! From everyday items to cutting-edge technology, engineers are behind many of the innovations we use daily — proving that this career path can lead to some seriously cool creations.
Engineering career pathways often begin with entry-level positions such as engineering technicians, CAD drafters, or apprenticeships that provide hands-on experience and exposure to the field. Many professionals start with a two-year associate degree or technical certification and choose to continue their education while working. Advancing into roles like junior engineer or project engineer typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a specific engineering discipline. With experience and continued learning, individuals can move into specialized or senior roles, pursue professional licensure, or even earn a master’s degree to lead major projects or move into management. This flexible pathway allows for growth while gaining real-world experience along the way.
Problem-Solving
Teamwork
Organization & Coordination
Detail-Oriented Thinking
Time-Management Skills
Architectural Drafters are the behind-the-scenes pros who help turn a designer’s vision into a buildable plan. Using computer-aided design (CAD) software, they create precise technical drawings that show exactly how buildings and structures should be constructed. Whether it’s a new home, office, or school, drafters play a key role in making sure every detail — from the floor plan to the foundation — is accurate and ready for the job site. It’s a great career for those who love design, details, and bringing blueprints to life.
Create blueprints and technical drawings based on sketches and design concepts.
Offices or design studios, mostly on computers with occasional site visits.
Detail-focused work that supports architects and engineers in construction planning.
Precision, spatial awareness, CAD software skills, technical knowledge.
Associate degree or certification in drafting, architecture, or engineering tech.
Architectural technologist, project designer, or advancement into architecture or engineering roles.
Survey & Mapping Technicians are the explorers of the engineering world. They help measure land, map out construction sites, and collect the data that engineers and architects need to build safely and accurately. If you like working outdoors, using cool tech like GPS and drones, and being part of the first step in every building project, this career could be a great fit. It’s a mix of fieldwork and computer time, perfect for someone who enjoys variety and problem-solving.
Collect data in the field and use it to create maps, boundary lines, and site plans.
Outdoors and in offices — part surveying, part data analysis.
Fieldwork with specialized equipment, paired with computer-based mapping and drafting.
Attention to detail, math, GPS and GIS tech, teamwork.
In Florida, becoming a licensed Professional Surveyor and Mapper requires a bachelor’s degree in surveying or a related field + licensing.
Surveyor, GIS specialist, civil engineering tech, or land development planner.
Electronic Technicians are the hands-on problem solvers who keep our technology running smoothly. They work with circuits, wiring, and components to build, test, and repair everything from communication systems to manufacturing equipment. This career is ideal for those who enjoy tinkering, troubleshooting, and working with their hands in high-tech environments. It’s a solid entry point into the world of electronics and engineering, with opportunities to specialize and grow.
Assemble, troubleshoot, and maintain electronic systems and devices.
Labs, manufacturing plants, or field service roles.
Hands-on technical work with wiring, circuits, and diagnostics.
Electronics knowledge, critical thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail.
Associate degree or technical certification in electronics or engineering technology.
Electrical engineering tech, field service engineer, or systems technician.
Architects are the creative minds who design the buildings we live, work, and play in. They combine art, science, and technology to create functional and beautiful spaces — from homes and schools to stadiums and skyscrapers. If you love creativity, problem-solving, and seeing your ideas come to life, architecture could be a rewarding path.
Design buildings and structures, create detailed plans, and guide construction projects.
Offices, design studios, and construction sites.
A blend of design work, technical planning, and project management.
Creativity, attention to detail, design software, communication.
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture + licensure.
Lead architect, urban planner, project manager, or firm principal.
Chemical Engineers use science and innovation to solve real-world problems — whether it’s developing cleaner energy, safer food, or new materials for medicine and manufacturing. They design and optimize processes that transform raw materials into everyday products. If you enjoy chemistry, math, and thinking big about how things work, this is a high-impact career worth exploring.
Design processes for making chemicals, fuels, foods, and more efficiently and safely.
Laboratories, manufacturing facilities, and offices.
Technical, research-driven work that often involves safety and environmental considerations.
Chemistry, critical thinking, data analysis, creativity.
Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or a related field.
Process engineer, product development engineer, environmental engineer, or R&D specialist.
Electrical Engineers power the world around us — from lighting and power systems to communication networks and electronics. They design, test, and maintain systems that keep everything running smoothly and safely. If you’re into how things work, enjoy working with circuits or tech, and want to be part of building the future, electrical engineering might be the spark you’re looking for.
Design and develop electrical systems for buildings, machines, and devices.
Offices, labs, and sometimes industrial or construction sites.
Project-based work involving problem-solving, teamwork, and sometimes field testing.
Math, electronics, systems thinking, attention to detail.
Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field.
Systems, controls engineer, design engineer, or engineering manager.
Environmental Technicians are the boots-on-the-ground professionals who help protect the environment by testing air, water, and soil and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. If you care about clean water, fresh air, and making a difference in your community, this hands-on role offers a meaningful way to combine science and service.
Collect samples, run environmental tests, and support environmental engineers and scientists.
Outdoors, labs, and industrial sites.
Fieldwork, data collection, and lab analysis tied to environmental health and safety.
Observation, organization, science know-how, attention to detail.
Associate degree or certification in environmental science or technology.
Environmental scientist, sustainability specialist, health & safety coordinator, or lab analyst.
Mechanical Engineers are the problem-solvers who design, build, and improve machines and mechanical systems — from engines and robots to HVAC systems and manufacturing equipment. If you like to build things, take them apart, and figure out how they work, this is a creative and technical path with lots of potential.
Design and test mechanical devices and systems across industries.
Offices, manufacturing plants, and testing labs.
A mix of hands-on and computer-based work, with a focus on innovation and precision.
Physics, CAD software, problem-solving, mechanical aptitude.
Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related discipline.
Product designer, robotics engineer, manufacturing engineer, or technical lead.
Structural Engineers are the problem-solvers who make sure buildings, bridges, and other structures are strong, safe, and built to last. They analyze loads, choose the right materials, and design frameworks that can handle stress from weather, weight, and everyday use. If you enjoy math, design, and thinking about how things stand up, this role might be a solid match.
Design and evaluate structural components to ensure stability and safety.
Offices and construction sites — part design, part fieldwork.
Technical analysis, collaboration with architects and construction teams, and safety oversight.
Physics, structural analysis, problem-solving, CAD proficiency.
Bachelor’s degree in civil or structural engineering, with licensure for advanced roles.
Senior structural engineer, construction project manager, or engineering consultant.
Architectural Drafter (CAD)
Survey & Mapping Technicians
Electronic Technicians
Industrial Engineering Technicians
Chemical Engineer
Civil Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Environmental Technician
Mechanical Engineer
Occupational Health & Safety Specialists
Structural Engineer
