Career Advice
As the title says, I’m looking for some career advice / input from others in or familiar with this industry.
I’m 3 years post grad and working full time as a structural engineer. I have not yet taken the PE. My short term plan right now is to study for and pass the PE by the time I am eligible to apply for a license (July 2027).
I am burnt out. I don’t have the same excitement for engineering that I did in school. I have had the opportunity to work in some client managing roles at my current position, which I like more.
The engineering and construction industry feels less and less like something I want to be a part of long term. Billable hours, utilization goals, and much more have sucked the fun out of this career for me.
At this point, it feels irresponsible to not get the PE. Ive always been told that is something I should absolutely do, regardless of if I plan to stay as an engineer long term. My question is: is it difficult to break into another industry? Ive always been interested in finance and the stock market, as well as client relationships and business development. I humbly say I am one of the “atypical engineers” who likes to talk to people, understands the technical very well, and prefers a leadership role.
For those who have changed industries from engineering to other, what advice do you have? Shluld I stay in engineering longer? Get the PE? Start looking for other industries? Ive always heard engineers can break into any industry, but id like to know how true that is.