What is Mechanical Engineering?

Mechanical engineers basically work in two areas. One area involves designing, analyzing and testing mechanical systems like engines, robots, and airframes. The other involves controlling the heat, fluids and energy used in or created by these systems. Mechanical engineers can often be found developing computer simulations or building and testing actual prototypes of systems, and frequently create, design, build and improve the following:

• Jet engines
• Rudder controls
• Air conditioners
• Heat pumps
• Aircraft wings
• Rocket engines
• Manufacturing machines
• Antilock brake systems
• Air bags
• Power plants
• Landing gears
• Bulldozers
• Welding machines

Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate Program Guides