Ceramics Engineers

High School

Students interested in studying materials engineering should take high school courses in mathematics, such as algebra, trigonometry, and calculus; and in science, such as biology, chemistry, and physics. In high school, science classes are the key—physics and chemistry in particular. However, all other basic courses need to be concentrated on as well: English, math, history, and social science.

High school will not be your last stop for education. You will need at least a bachelor's degree to get a job in ceramics engineering.

Postsecondary Training

Your first college courses will initially be geared toward getting you to think logically and analytically. Thus, the first two years of engineering programs typically center on math, physics, chemistry, and computer courses. You should be inspired and challenged to approach problems first theoretically and then practically. For instance, after you are presented with a problem, you will first think about how it would be solved, then formulate a step-by-step method by which to solve it, and then actually tackle the problem according to that method. This thinking process should be nurtured throughout your core college courses geared toward ceramics engineering, for engineers are expected to have an aptitude for problem solving.

In your junior and senior years, you will focus particularly on your chosen area of specialization. If you major in ceramics engineering, classes and problems will be concentrated on issues in the research, development, and manufacturing ceramics engineering discipline. During these last two years of undergraduate work, it is important to consider and evaluate your goals in the field and to determine whether you prefer research, development/design, production, sales, or management. Focusing on this objective makes it easier for you to plan your job search.

Approximately 60 college and university programs in ceramic and materials engineering are accredited by ABET, a nonprofit organization that accredits college and university programs in engineering, engineering technology, computing, and applied and natural science in the U.S. and around the world. Visit https://www.abet.org/accreditation/find-programs to search for programs.

Certification

The American Ceramic Society offers its ACerS Learning Center Certificate Program for ceramics engineers. Students must complete three courses to receive the Ceramic Manufacturing Certificate through its learning program. Courses offered include Introduction to Ceramic Science, Technology, and Manufacturing; Drying of Ceramics; Firing of Ceramics; Glaze Manufacturing for Industry; among several others.

Other Education or Training

The American Society for Engineering Education offers continuing education (CE) opportunities for engineers via its annual conference and other events. The National Society of Professional Engineers provides webinars for student members of the society. Past webinars included "Career Success in Engineering: A Guide for Students and New Professionals," "Ethics and Professionalism for Students and Young Engineers," "How to Get Your First Job," and "Engineering Your Career with a High Quality Social Network Web Seminar." Other organizations that provide CE opportunities include the American Ceramic Society; ASM International; and The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society. Contact these organizations for more information.