How do you become a system engineer?

1 Get a relevant degree

The first step to becoming a system engineer is to get a degree in a relevant field, such as engineering, computer science, mathematics, or physics. A degree will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, engineering, and programming that are essential for systems engineering. You will also learn about various engineering disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, civil, and software engineering, and how they interact with each other. A degree will also expose you to different types of systems, such as physical, information, biological, and social systems, and how to model, analyze, and optimize them.

2 Gain practical experience

The second step to becoming a system engineer is to gain practical experience in applying systems engineering principles and methods to real-world problems. You can do this by participating in internships, co-ops, projects, or competitions that involve systems engineering. You can also join professional associations, such as the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE), that offer networking, mentoring, and training opportunities for systems engineers. You will also benefit from learning from experienced systems engineers who can share their insights, challenges, and best practices with you.

3 Obtain certification

The third step to becoming a system engineer is to obtain certification that demonstrates your competence and credibility in systems engineering. There are various certifications available for systems engineers, such as the Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP) or the Expert Systems Engineering Professional (ESEP) offered by INCOSE. These certifications require you to meet certain education and experience criteria, as well as pass a comprehensive exam that covers the systems engineering body of knowledge. Obtaining certification will help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of getting hired or promoted.

4 Keep learning

The fourth step to becoming a system engineer is to keep learning and updating your skills and knowledge in systems engineering. Systems engineering is a dynamic and evolving field that requires you to adapt to changing technologies, standards, and customer needs. You can keep learning by reading books, journals, blogs, and newsletters on systems engineering topics, attending workshops, webinars, and conferences, taking online courses or certifications, and joining online communities and forums where you can exchange ideas and feedback with other systems engineers.

5 Develop soft skills

The fifth step to becoming a system engineer is to develop soft skills that are essential for working effectively with others in systems engineering. Systems engineering is a collaborative and interdisciplinary field that requires you to communicate clearly, listen actively, negotiate diplomatically, and lead confidently. You will also need to have critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and decision-making skills that will help you identify, define, and solve complex systems problems. Additionally, you will need to have project management, time management, and organizational skills that will help you plan, execute, and monitor systems engineering projects.

6 Build a portfolio

The sixth step to becoming a system engineer is to build a portfolio that showcases your systems engineering projects and achievements. A portfolio is a collection of documents, artifacts, and evidence that demonstrate your systems engineering skills, knowledge, and experience. A portfolio can include your resume, cover letter, transcripts, certifications, references, project reports, presentations, diagrams, models, simulations, code, prototypes, test results, and feedback. A portfolio will help you showcase your value and potential to employers, clients, and peers, as well as reflect on your learning and development as a system engineer.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?