Engineering Degree and Then the Military?

Okay, so stressing out a bit here. Engineering seems like a useful degree, right? But what if, after graduating, I wanted to join the military? Are there roles for engineers within the military that would put my degree to good use?

Absolutely, there are a number of roles within the military where an engineering degree would be highly beneficial and your expertise could be put to good use.

The U.S. military branches often seek individuals with backgrounds in engineering for a variety of roles, many of which involve planning and managing construction projects, designing and analyzing military technology, and undertaking research and development of new materials, devices, and systems.

For example, the Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's leading public engineering, design, and construction management agencies. They're involved in nearly every area of civil engineering: infrastructure, environmental, and military projects. Army engineers are also involved in combat engineering, with duties that include constructing defensive structures and field fortifications.

Similarly, the Navy has the Civil Engineer Corps which is responsible for the construction and maintenance of the Navy's infrastructure including runways, bridges, and buildings.

Moreover, the Air Force frequently hires individuals with engineering degrees to work as Civil Engineers, Electrical Systems Engineers or Nuclear Engineers.

Of course, every branch of the military also needs engineers to work on the design, maintenance, and improvement of the vast array of vehicles, weapons systems, and technology used in modern warfare.

So, not only is it possible for an engineer to find good use of their skills in the military, there are also countless opportunities for professional growth and making a meaningful impact with an engineering degree. The key is exploring these opportunities with the branch you are particularly interested in. And remember, while all of these roles utilize an engineering degree, each will come with its own unique set of responsibilities and challenges.