Qualities Every Chemical Engineer Should Have
Chemical engineering is a complex mixture of mathematics, science and engineering. With an added bonus of common sense being very handy. Typically chemical engineers require specialist knowledge across all fields listed above. For example, chemical engineers must know how to apply principles of higher mathematics, but the derivations aren’t relevant, therefore the mechanics behind mathematics is needed. This applies to the other subjects too.
More often than not students will struggle with similar aspects of the degree. This is why taking additional classes and courses, really improves grades and understanding of a given topic.
Good knowledge of three basic subjects:
There are three subjects which is the backbone of chemical engineering Heat transfer, Mass transfer and Fluid flow(momentum transfer). These are used in every problem related to chemical engineering. Applying these topics effectively will make you a highly desirable Chemical engineer. Check out our courses for more details on each topic.
Knowledge of CRE:
This is a very important part of the course in chemical engineering. The mechanical design of a reactor can be done by most engineering disciplines however, it is up to the Chemical engineer to ensure the reactor is properly designed based on the reaction conditions, rates, product formation and reaction safety.
Equipment Design:
Suppose someone wants to become a design engineer then he must have sound knowledge of this subject. It covers how to calculate design specifications of equipment like a distillation column. While this covers most disciplines it is one that is often overlooked by Chemicals.
Process safety:
This is important from the point of safety and hazard. If someone wants a good chemical engineer in the process industry, it’s very useful. Typically Chemical engineering students undergo training in HAZOP to help identify potential hazards and proposed solutions. This is an excellent skill to have and develop.
Domain knowledge:
An engineer should have domain-specific knowledge. While it is useful to have a broad range of knowledge being an expert in a given field is highly desirable to companies looking to employ Chemical engineers. Such examples would be petroleum, biochemical or pharmaceutical engineers.
How Can You Develop This Knowledge?
It’s easy to say “be good at this, and master that” however, it is another thing to actually take on the task. This is why we decided to give you some pointers and tips on how you can develop your knowledge.
1. Do an Online Course
Let’s get the obvious out of the way; taking an online course is by far one of the best ways of improving your understanding of a subject. That is across almost everything from baking to computer IT, to marketing and costume design.
It is a proven way for students of all abilities to work through learning material at their own pace and really cement their ability to comprehend and solve difficult concepts and problems. We offer both paid and FREE courses, so please feel free to browse our extensive range of courses.
2. Take Additional Classes
Often universities provide extra classes, students can enrol voluntarily to access additional resources and speak to their lecturers more. This can seem counter-intuitive since you will already be busy with your core modules, however, we could recommend if you can to take at leat one other class.
The class doesn’t need to be specific to your degree, but can be a subject that integrates between several modules. For example, taking an additional class on calculus mathematics would prove invaluable when it comes to engineering modelling and equipment design.
3. Browse YouTube
YouTube is the second largest website/search engine, with billions of videos readily available 24/7. If you can think of it, chances are someone has made a video on it.
Industry-specific topics such as the use of HYSYS can be found in abundance on YouTube. Simply looking at “How to” searches can unleash a vast array of content. The good thing about this wide choice is that there are often different ways of explaining and interpreting the same concept, so if one method doesn’t make sense, you can just check another video until one resonates with you.
4. Seak Out Industry Professionals
There is nothing better than speaking to someone who is an absolute pro at what they do. If someone really knows their stuff and is passionate about their work, chances are they will talk your ear off, for as long as you listen.
Use this passion and enthusiasm to your advantage. Ask questions, get advice from the people you want to emulate. I know for teaching personally that my enthusiasm for branches of mathematics resonates with students and can often inspire and make the subject appear less boring and more engaging.
Speak to your lecturers at university, but also contact companies, find professionals in your niche, and slip them an email, introducing yourself, and asking some questions. This is also a great way of networking and putting your name out there.
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