What do you do if you're interested in manufacturing innovation but unsure of potential career paths?

1 Product designer

A product designer is someone who designs the appearance, functionality, and usability of a product, taking into account the needs and preferences of the target customers, the technical specifications, and the manufacturing constraints. Product designers often use computer-aided design (CAD) software, prototyping tools, and user testing methods to create and refine their designs. Product designers can work in various industries, such as consumer electronics, automotive, medical, furniture, or toys, and collaborate with engineers, marketers, and manufacturers to bring their ideas to life.

2 Manufacturing engineer

A manufacturing engineer is someone who applies engineering principles and techniques to optimize the production process of a product, ensuring quality, efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Manufacturing engineers often use computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software, automation systems, and quality control methods to plan, implement, and improve the manufacturing operations. Manufacturing engineers can work in various sectors, such as aerospace, biotechnology, energy, or food, and coordinate with product designers, suppliers, and managers to solve manufacturing problems and innovate solutions.

3 Industrial designer

An industrial designer is someone who combines art, science, and technology to create or improve the physical aspects of a product, such as its shape, color, texture, or material. Industrial designers often use sketching, modeling, and rendering tools to visualize and communicate their concepts, and consider the aesthetic, ergonomic, and environmental impact of their designs. Industrial designers can work in various domains, such as transportation, packaging, or appliances, and consult with product designers, manufacturing engineers, and clients to enhance the product's appeal and functionality.

4 Process engineer

A process engineer is someone who designs, develops, and monitors the systems and methods that convert raw materials into finished products. Process engineers often use mathematical models, statistical analysis, and simulation tools to evaluate and improve the performance, quality, and efficiency of the processes. Process engineers can work in various fields, such as chemical, pharmaceutical, or textile, and liaise with manufacturing engineers, industrial designers, and operators to optimize the process flow and reduce waste and costs.

5 Innovation manager

An innovation manager is someone who leads and supports the innovation activities within an organization, such as generating, evaluating, and implementing new ideas for products, services, or processes. Innovation managers often use creativity techniques, market research, and project management tools to identify and pursue innovation opportunities, and foster a culture of innovation among the employees, customers, and partners. Innovation managers can work in various types of organizations, such as corporations, startups, or nonprofits, and collaborate with product designers, manufacturing engineers, and industrial designers to deliver innovative solutions that meet the market needs and expectations.

6 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?