Overview

Engineering and architecture are about using science and math to design and build everything from bridges to buildings. They offer hands-on careers where creativity meets problem-solving to create the places where people live and work.

​These fields have lots of different paths, like making roads, designing eco-friendly homes, or setting up electrical systems. You'll always be learning new things as technology and what people want changes.

On this page you can learn more about careers in this area and where you can obtain training or educational experience. ​

RIASEC Categories: ​Artistic, Realistic
CTE Industry Sector: Engineering and Architecture

Intro Video

NEW: Career Ideas based on RIASEC Score 

• Realistic: Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Construction Engineer, Architectural Technologist
• Investigative: Environmental Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Materials Scientist, Geotechnical Engineer, Structural Engineer
• Artistic: Architect, Landscape Architect, Urban Designer, Interior Designer with Engineering Focus, Industrial Designer
• Social: Urban Planner, Community Development Engineer, Transportation Planner, Accessibility Consultant in Design, Public Works Coordinator
• Enterprising: Project Manager in Engineering, Engineering Firm Owner, Real Estate Developer, Green Building Consultant, Technical Sales Engineer
• Conventional: CAD Drafter, Engineering Technician, Building Code Inspector, Quality Assurance Engineer, Specifications Writer

Career and Occupation Information

​AA Degree (Community College)

• Robotics Technician
• Aerospace Engineering Technician

​
​Bachelor's Degree​ (*Many engineering degrees require experience or additional certification beyond the Bachelor's Degree, including a Master's Degree)

• Architect
• ​Civil Engineer
• Transportation Engineer
• Environmental Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Mechatronics Engineer
• Petroleum Engineer
• Biomedical Engineer ​​
• Urban and Regional Planning
• Transportation Planners

Explore More Careers

• Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) Careers
• Choosing the Planning Profession
• What does an urban planner do?
• Urban and Regional Planning Careers​
• Types of Engineering Degrees
• Discover Engineering ​

Local / Statewide Programs

• Butte College - Technology and Engineering Programs
• Mechatronics - CSU Chico
• Robotics - CSU Chico​
• Cal Poly Biomedical Engineering Program - California Polytechnic State University​

Get Experience Now!

You can get experience in this field in the following ways:​​

• Take engineering CTE courses at your local high school, such as Robotics. 
• Take science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) classes, which are crucial for developing the analytical skills needed in engineering and architecture.
• Join clubs or groups involved in robotics and engineering.
• Learn to use design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp, which are staples in both engineering and architecture fields.
• Engage in hands-on building or model-making projects, like constructing with LEGO or K'NEX, to develop spatial awareness and design skills.
• Reach out to a business or organization in the career area you are interested in and ask for information on what the job is really like and what type of education or experience is recommended. 

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Environmental Engineering

Industrial Engineering

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