Engineering is a very fast-paced, competitive field, so if you want to get ahead, you need to constantly focus on learning and growing your skills. Much of your training is completed on-the-job, but you’ll likely need to step outside the confines of your office to build a well-rounded expertise.
Prepare to impress your boss when you bring the information gained from external sources back to your job. This can lead to advancement at your current company or prepare you to take the next step in your career elsewhere. Your extra efforts can be added to your resume and will definitely increase your credibility and make you a much more competitive candidate.
How to Learn and Grow Outside the Workplace
Not quite sure where to find learning opportunities that can help boost your career? Get started with these three tips:
Volunteer Your Time
Many nonprofits rely on volunteers to keep their organization running. Find a local group that needs volunteers with the skillset you’re trying to develop and offer to donate your time. This is a great way to learn and grow your skills — both those specifically related to engineering and those of a nontechnical nature — and help out a really great cause.
Join a Professional Association
Become a member of a professional association, such as the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers Chicago Chapter or IEEE Chicago to take part in seminars, conferences and other regular training sessions provided to members. Gain specialized industry knowledge without having to leave the Chicago area and make connections with like-minded peers.
Go Back to School
Consider heading back to school if you want to switch to a different engineering specialty or move up to a managerial level position. If you’re working in a more general discipline, such as industrial or mechanical, a graduate degree might be very beneficial. Before enrolling in a program, make sure it offers a strong return on your investment.
Searching for a new engineering or manufacturing position in Chicago?
Contact Premium Staffing, Inc. Our team understands that every decision you make has the potential to change your entire career path, so we’re committed to helping you find the right opportunity.