First, some facts. Of the Mechanical Engineering graduates from Ohio University we've analyzed , here's how many have used (or NOT used) their degree in their career:
These are estimates based on AI analysis of 15 LinkedIn profiles (see below).
The verdict? Above average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 77%, Mechanical Engineering graduates from Ohio University have a higher likelihood (+10%) of finding work in this field compared to the average graduate across all fields:
And for comparison, here's the chart for all profiles we've looked at across all degrees.
Also, after graduating, only 26% of these graduates have pursued further education other than another Bachelor's degree (such as a Masters degree or other), compared to the average across all profiles of 35%. This suggests a Bachelors degree is enough for most Mechanical Engineering graduates, and it's normal to look for work straight after graduation.
See the details:
Relevance score: 42%We think this person has gone into a career only somewhat relevant to their degree.DEGREE INFOGraduated in 2014 from Ohio University with a Bachelor of Science - BS in Mechanical Engineering. No other secondary education since. JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATIONResident EngineerFCA Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Aug 2014 - Jul 2017 Global Program Management Analyst AAM - American Axle & Manufacturing Jan 2018 - Apr 2020 Digital Content Executive Self-employed Nov 2019 - Present Deacon Mack Avenue Community Church Jun 2020 - Jun 2023 Team Lead - Tech Team Mack Avenue Community Church May 2020 - Present ABOUTCritical thinking problem solver that is formerly an automotive engineer and analyst that's passionate about seeing life changes through product quality, environmental efficiency, and creativity. - 6+ years of data analysis from bench mark destructive evaluation testing, vehicle warranty data, manufacturing machine data.- 6+ years of cross functional and multilevel communication. o Frequent communication to upper management and executive teams.- 3+ years of problem solving in a fast-paced automotive engine assembly plant. o Continues improvement projects, quality defect mitigation, and manufacturing process optimization. o Plant savings totaling nearly $1M.- 3 years of overseeing, maintaining and leading the tech equipment transition of a 10K sq ft. buildingfor in-person, and live stream, services through visual/audio needs- 3 years of script writing and digital video production and publishing (YouTube).- 2+ years of 3D modeling and simulation analysis (Solid Edge, Solidworks, AutoCAD and Abaqus).- 2 years of maintaining and optimizing reports for 120+ global program portfolios.- 2 years of analyzing program management timing and implementing automated reporting tools. |
The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:
From analyzing the job paths of Ohio University graduates with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, it seems like there are a few common threads. Many of these graduates land roles that are firmly rooted in mechanical engineering concepts, such as Process Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, and Project Engineers. These positions directly utilize the principles and skills acquired during their studies, often involving design, manufacturing, and problem-solving tasks that leverage their technical knowledge. For example, roles like Additive Manufacturing Engineer and Mechanical Design Engineer show a clear connection to the field, as they involve hands-on application of mechanical engineering methods and designs.
However, while many graduates do find positions that align closely with their degree, there are also instances where the relevance is less pronounced. Some professionals move into roles like Manufacturing Estimator or Digital Content Executive, which, although they may require some analytical skills related to engineering, don’t heavily rely on the core mechanical engineering principles. Other positions like Field Team Leader or Deacon at a church reflect a total divergence from engineering, focusing instead on community leadership or unrelated project management. So, while a lot of graduates are indeed working in roles that utilize their training, there’s a noticeable number that veer off into areas that aren’t tightly linked to mechanical engineering. It’s a mixed bag, but overall, many graduates are finding ways to apply what they've learned in the real world.
Here is a visual representation of the most common words in job titles for Mechanical Engineering graduates (this is across all Mechanical Engineering graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to Ohio University):
Looking at the career trajectories of graduates from Ohio University's Mechanical Engineering program, it seems like many have stepped into solid engineering roles right after graduation. Most of these alumni start their careers as process engineers or project engineers, often at well-known companies in the automotive, manufacturing, or aerospace sectors. This initial phase, usually within the first few years after graduation, is marked by hands-on roles that involve product development, quality assurance, or project management, which are pretty typical for mechanical engineers.
As time progresses, many of these graduates seem to be advancing in their careers. By five years in, they're often moving into higher-level positions like engineering managers or analysts. Some have even transitioned into roles that merge engineering with strategic planning or product management, showing a good mix of technical and business skills. A few have taken more unconventional paths, diving into entrepreneurship or unique roles in areas like research and education. While there are some outliers who have slipped away from straight-up engineering roles, the overall trend is positive, with many finding solid, relevant careers that leverage their mechanical engineering backgrounds. So, if you're considering this field, the outlook seems pretty bright!"
Getting a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, whether at Ohio University or pretty much anywhere else, is definitely no walk in the park. It involves a lot of challenging coursework, like advanced math, physics, and hands-on design projects that require problem-solving skills and a solid grasp of engineering principles. While it's not impossible, you'll need to be prepared for some late nights of studying and teamwork on projects. Some people find it a bit more manageable if they've got a strong background in math and science from high school, but overall, it’s often considered on the tougher side compared to other majors. Just stay organized and ask for help when you need it, and you’ll be able to tackle it!
Most commonly, in the LinkedIn profiles we've looked at, it takes people 4 years to finish a Bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering.
So, looking at the jobs that these Ohio University grads have, it seems like they're doing pretty well overall in the mechanical engineering world. Many of them have landed solid engineering roles, like process management and project engineering, which typically come with decent salaries. For example, someone working as a Process Engineering Manager or a Senior Strategic Planning Analyst at well-known companies likely rakes in a good paycheck, probably in the range of six figures after a few years of experience. Even the recent grads starting out as engineers or in research roles are in fields that usually pay well, and with time, they’ll likely see their salaries increase. So yeah, it looks like these folks are on a good financial path!
Here is a visual representation of the most common words seen in the "about" section of LinkedIn profiles who have a Bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering (this is across all Mechanical Engineering graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to Ohio University). This may or may not be useful:
Here are all colleges offering a Bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering (ordered by the average relevance score of their Mechanical Engineering graduates, best to worst) where we have analyzed at least 10 of their graduates: