Ergonomists

Only those with the required educational credentials can get hands-on experience, so the most practical way to explore career opportunities is to talk with those already working in the field. A great deal of career information can also be found in professional journals such as Human Factors: The Journal of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (https://www.hfes.org/publications/publications). Students may also want to check out some online sources. Many professional associations have a strong presence on LinkedIn, Twitter, and other social networking sites. You can follow associations at these sites to keep up to date on news and information about the field. Visit https://www.hfes.org/Publications/Publications/free-publicationstions/free-publications to read Explore the Possibilities: Pursue a Career in Human Factors/Ergonomics and other career resources.

After researching the field of ergonomics through print and online sources, you may consider trying your hand at setting up an ergonomically sound work area. If you have a computer, you could make sure that the monitor distance, mouse and keyboard placement, and chair height are in accord with accepted ergonomic standards. At school, you might also make sure your desk and locker are put to proper ergonomic use. Place heavy books at the bottom of your locker and bend at the knees to lift them and carry your backpack close to your body with both straps over your shoulders.

Finally, learn to listen to your own body for signs of ergonomic distress. Do your thumbs cramp up after a few hours of video games? That could be an early sign of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and could lead to more serious problems. Before you move on to the next level in a game, press "pause" and stretch out your hands to get the blood flowing again. Does your back hurt after a long day at school? Try to make a conscious effort to sit up straight, with your back straight and lower back flush against the chair. Do your eyeballs get blurry from checking social media or playing online video games too much? Put down your smartphone, put on some good sneakers, and go for a walk.