Engineering is an incredibly broad discipline that involves solving technical problems and improving systems. If that sounds a bit vague, it’s because it applies to so many things! There are countless branches of engineering, and you can learn to engineer just about anything. This article focuses on mechanical vs. software engineering, two hugely important types of engineering that both present exciting career opportunities for STEM-savvy learners.
What is Mechanical Engineering?
Mechanical engineering is one of the major types of engineering and has been practiced since ancient civilizations built the first simple machines. This type of engineering focuses on the development of physical machines that use force and movement. It combines physics, math, and material science which results in a number of branches of mechanical engineering.
A mechanical engineer may be responsible for analyzing problems, coming up with solutions, developing and testing prototypes, and overseeing the manufacturing of a device. They might work on power-producing machines like generators, combustion engines, and turbines, or in other areas like heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, elevators and escalators, or conveyor systems.
Some famous mechanical engineers throughout history include George Stephenson (1781-1848), who is known as the “Father of Railways” due to his innovations in locomotives, and Lillian Gilbreth (1878-1972), a specialist in workplace efficiency who was one of the first female engineers to earn a Ph.D.
Mechanical Engineering Skills and Requirements
- Mechanical engineers generally hold a bachelor-level degree in mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technologies. To progress beyond an entry-level role, mechanical engineers need to obtain a Professional Engineering (PE) license, which requires four years of work and further exams.
- Mechanical engineers need to be adept at math and spatial relations.
- Mechanical engineers should have strong soft skills such as a knack for problem solving, a high level of creativity, and solid communication skills.
Mechanical Engineering Job Outlook
Mechanical engineers have a variety of job prospects and can earn a competitive salary. Since there are so many branches of mechanical engineering, there are also a large number of sub-disciplines (like mechatronics, a combination of mechanical, electrical, electronic, and software engineering), creating a range of potential specializations.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers the following employment data for Mechanical Engineers:
- Median salary (2023): $99,510
- Number of jobs (2023): 291,900
- Projected increase in number of jobs (2023–2033): 11%
What is Software Engineering?
Software engineering is an interdisciplinary field that applies engineering principles to the development of software for computers and electronic devices. Unlike mechanical engineering, it is one of the newer branches of engineering, having been considered a field in its own right since the 1960s.
Software engineers define, implement, test, manage, and maintain software systems. Some software engineers work as freelance contractors while others are employees of companies, organizations, or branches of government. Software engineers may work on a range of products, including application software (computer programs and apps), system software like operating systems, embedded software, video games, or other systems. Unlike mechanical engineers, software engineers focus on the building of code, not physical objects.
Notable software engineers from around the world include Linus Torvalds (1969–), who created the open-source Linux kernel and the version control software Git, and John Carmack (1970–), a pioneer in video game development who was the lead programmer on popular games from the 1990s like Doom.
Software Engineering Skills and Requirements
- Software engineers typically have bachelor-level degrees in subjects like software engineering, computer science, or math.
- Software engineers usually are functional in a range of programming languages, such as Python, TypeScript, and C++.
- Software engineers often work collaboratively and should have solid communication skills as well as excellent problem-solving skills.
Software Engineering Job Outlook
Software engineering is a growing field with quality job prospects. Although some have warned that artificial intelligence may be a threat to software engineers, others believe that AI will actually create more jobs.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers the following employment data for Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers:
- Median salary (2023): $130,160
- Number of jobs (2023): 1,897,100
- Projected increase in number of jobs (2023–2033): 17%
Combining Mechanical and Software Engineering with Sphero
Sphero Blueprint Engineering helps young learners tackle mechanical engineering and robotics concepts as they design and build working prototypes. With Blueprint, students can explore cross-curricular concepts in robotics, engineering, and design (with support for CAD curriculums), helping them develop a multidisciplinary engineering mindset at an early age. Meanwhile, Sphero programmable robots like BOLT+ and RVR+ offer a firm foundation for learning software engineering.
Speak to one of our experts today to find out how Blueprint Engineering and other tools can help students develop mechanical or software engineering skills in the classroom or at home!
About the Author
The Sphero Team
The Sphero Team is comprised of current and former educators, education content and curriculum writers, product designers, engineers, executive leadership, and other experts in their fields. Learn more about who we are and what we do at https://sphero.com/pages/about-us.
