Blueprint to Jumpstart a Successful Engineering Career

Blueprint to Jumpstart a Successful Engineering Career

Mildred MabiriziTitilope Bolatiwa Victoria Okotie SWE 2012

Format

• Ice breaker

• The Roadmap

• The College Phase

• The Transition

• The Professional World

• Questions

Speakers

Mildred Mabirizi Instrumentation & Controls Engineer

Victoria Okotie Petroleum Engineer

Titilope Bolatiwa Project Engineer

What does a successful career look

like to you?

The Road Map

• Why?

−Visual

− Focus

−Action

• How?

−Map out your career path

−Reflect on your likes and dislikes

− Your motives

The College Phase

• Passion

• Your Major

• Classes

• Internship

• Build your network

• Get involved

• Have fun!

Making the Transition – College to Industry

In preparation for this milestone while in college:

− Utilize your network

− Seek leadership opportunities

− Resume, interviews and bragalogue

− Proactively seek internships

− Develop a career plan

− Seek full-time positions

− Demonstrate skills and interest

− Enjoy college life but aim to finish strong!


• When evaluating an offer, avoid:

− Comparing yourself to others

− Focusing solely on the salary

− Fear of making a career mistake

− Settling for a gateway role

• Rather:

− Research the company

− Clarify uncertainties

− Review benefits

• Bear in mind that offers are often negotiable!


• Some sample questions to consider:

− Am I interested in this sector (e.g. oil and gas, research, food)? Clarity on typical assignments and fitting with your career plan

− What is it like working for this company? Typical work schedule? Views on work-life balance? Reporting hierarchy? Visibility of career advancement and minimum timeframe?

− Geographical and physical location? (Office/field /offshore location) Preference? Relocation assistance? Travel? Expatriate opportunities?

− Employee development? Rotation assignments- duration/location? Mentor? Training programs, policy and does it apply to your role?

− Benefits offered: Paid maternity leave, duration, vacation policy, 401K

• Remain polite and courteous

• For multiple offers, respectfully decline the alternate offer

7 key strategies to navigate with confidence

i. Build a solid foundation

ii. Design your Career Roadmap

iii. Grow your network

iv. Start your personal board of directors

v. Keep a “success journal”

vi. Seize opportunities

vii.Reset your expectations

11

7 Professional tools to navigate with confidence

i. Work Smart

ii. Leadership

iii. Visibility

iv. Balance

v. Communication

vi. Relationships

vii. Vision

Questions