How to Become a Robotics Engineer

Robotics engineers are responsible for the design, creation, and testing of the robots used in everyday life. This can be an extremely rewarding career but requires years of preparation to do it at a professional level. Don't get discouraged though, as becoming a robotics engineer is obtainable by developing your skills, pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science or Technology, gaining real-world experience, and customizing your job search.

Developing Your Skills

1. Take advanced math and science courses in high school. Taking advanced courses in areas such as algebra, trigonometry, and computer science as well as physics will help prepare you for a degree in robotics.

• If advanced placement courses are not offered, take the highest levels available in math and physics.

• Having a strong grasp of algebra and geometry are crucial to pursuing a career in robotics engineering.

2. Participate in robotics clubs through your school or community. Engaging in these extracurricular activities will provide you will experience that relates directly to your area of study in college. It will also help college admission offices recognize your interest in this field.

• Extra curricular activities are always useful when it comes to applying for college. Try to find clubs and other organizations that directly relate to the field of study you plan to pursue. It will also help you explore what aspects of robotics interests you the most.

• If you do not have a robotics club at your school, look into joining one at a nearby high school, or better yet, talk to your administration about starting your own robotics club.

3. Enter into robotics competitions to gain experience. This is a great opportunity that will allow you to practice your skills through hands-on experience. It will also help you with college admissions as they see that you are actively engaged in your desired field.

• Schools that participate in robotics clubs may also have their students enter into competitions. However, if your school does have a robotics program, looking at programs such as the Robotics Competition & Mechatronics Forum can help you find competitions in your area.

Pursuing Higher Education

1. Get a Bachelor’s of Science or Technology. When choosing a concentration, look for degree programs in mechanical, electrical or industrial engineering. Mechanical and electrical engineering programs are offered widely throughout colleges and universities. These programs will teach you the fundamentals of engineering in almost any area of interest including, electronic compounds, computing, and pneumatic systems.

• For Mechatronics engineering, make sure and look for programs that have been approved by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

• If your school of choice does not offer robotics as a major, look for a program that allows you to add robotics as your concentration

2. Explore all avenues of robotics while in college. Trying your hand in mechatronics, mechanical, electrical, and computer science engineering, will not only help you settle on your area of passion but will give you needed experience in other areas of robotics. Since the world of robotics is ever changing, many are able to get into their careers through different routes.

• Being well-versed in the engineering processes of the brain, nervous system, or body will allow you to enter the field of robotics through alternate avenues, opening up more opportunities when you are searching for a job.