EASYUNI Ultimate University Guide 2013 Issue 6 | Page 17

CO U R S E S & C A REERS
Skills and Traits Needed
A mechatronic engineer must have great interest in mechanics and
electronics and needs a creative imagination, as well as problem-solving
skills, practical and technical skills and a meticulous and organized approach
towards work. Curiosity is also an important trait–the desire to know how
and why things work.
A good mechatronic engineer needs to be flexible. The field is very wide, so
you can find yourself in different jobs throughout your career. Even within
a job, the situation can change and you need to be able to move forward
without getting too bent out of shape.

Qualifications and
Training Required

Engineers are considered bad communicators, so great communication and
interpersonal skills will help you stand out from the crowd. You have to be
organised or learn how to, as you might be handling different issues at the
same time. Good mechatronic engineers also need mathematical skills. You
have to be able to recognise a problem and not hesitate to solve it.

Every mechatronic engineer
has to go through formal
training. The process normally
starts with an associate degree
programme. The Associate of
Applied Science (A.A.S.) is a
two-year undergraduate degree
programme which covers
topics like industrial electronics
systems, mechanical systems
and pneumatics.

Working Conditions
Typically, mechatronic engineers work in laboratories, workshops and processing
plants. Many college graduates may venture into their own businesses. The work
of a mechatronic engineer is usually divided into administrative and organisational
tasks, and design and development work. The demand for mechatronic engineers
is great within enterprises such as government, aerospace and consumer products
industries. They may work normal hours daily, but depending on