WRITTEN BY WANDA CURTIS
Maine’s engineering workforce continues to grow and diversify. Mechanical, civil, environmental, electrical, and chemical engineering are just a few of the many career options available for the younger generation entering the workforce in the near future.
According to Program Director for New Ventures Maine Suzanne Senechai-Jandreau, students have great education and training opportunities right here in Maine. The pre-engineering Maine Engineering Pathways Program allows students to complete their first year of engineering courses at UMaine Farmington, Presque Isle, Augusta, or Machias before transferring to the University of Maine in Orono or the University of Southern Maine for their last three years to complete their degree.
“With a four-year degree in engineering, the opportunities in Maine and beyond for a good paying, high-demand job are very good,” Senechai-Jandreau said. “The demand for engineers continues to grow. In terms of return on investment for a student who needs to borrow money to complete their education, engineering generally provides a very good return on investment.”
UMaine actually encourages students to explore the world of engineering at a very young age. Their new Green Materials and Facilities Building, which is currently under construction, will soon host students K-12 as they engage in activities to introduce them to different aspects of engineering throughout their education.
UMaine hosts a number of special events and activities throughout the year to expose Maine’s younger generation to various aspects of engineering. One popular event is the Engineering Week Expo, which will be held this year at USM’s Field House in Gorham on Feb. 28 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Representatives from engineering firms, universities, government agencies, and professional societies will share interactive displays, demonstrations, and activities, which can stir the curiosity of young people and encourage them to consider a career in engineering.
Another popular event for youth is the Maine State Science Olympiad, which will be held this year at UMaine in Orono on April 11. Elementary, junior, and senior high school students will participate in this nationwide STEM competition in which students compete in 23 events.
The Maine State Science Fair, which will be held at Orono High School on March 28, offers another opportunity for students to pursue their interest in science and engineering, as well as present the results of projects to be judged by STEM professionals. It’s open to students enrolled in public, parochial, and home schools for grades 9-12.
Trades for ME conferences offer another great opportunity for young people to learn about engineering and other related careers. This spring’s conferences will be held in Waterville, Lewiston, Calais, and Presque Isle. All conferences and on-demand career sessions are free.
For more information, see tradesforme.org.
