Program bridges the gap between studies and what engineers really do

Imagine the shock. A senior is taking a final exam and finds only two questions. The first-on the automated control of a fermenter in a biopharmaceutical plant-is a breeze. The second, however, causes the student to shift uncomfortably: "Describe what a process engineer, in any field, does on a daily basis. Specify the challenges, rewards, and surprises faced on the job, compare and contrast the college and work environments, and describe how a student might best prepare for a career in this field."

Unfortunately, this fictional student probably didn't get the information necessary to ace the exam, and that may just be the first of many struggles as he or she begins a career.

To overcome this knowledge gap, the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation has funded AIChE's Career Information Program to develop effective, stimulating, and interactive career information materials for chemical engineering undergraduates. When completed, the program will include print, video, CD-ROM, and on-line information. Though specifically targeted at first- and second-year chemical engineering students, it will ultimately be available to all graduate and undergraduate students, as well as others interested in chemical engineering career information. Eight other engineering, scientific, and mathematical associations have also received funding for similar programs.

The completed materials will feature profiles of chemical engineers working in petrochemicals, biotechnology, construction, law, education, pharmaceuticals, food, government, polymers, personal care products, and consulting. And, the diversity of career paths within these industries will also be explored, providing day-in-the-life profiles for job titles including business coordinator, process engineer, systems engineer, environmental specialist, patent attorney, associate professor, and automation engineer, among others. Thirty-five recent chemical engineering graduates and college professors from around the US, in addition to several career guidance professionals and human resource personnel, have already provided profiles and input to this program through videotaped and personal interviews.

"With this information, we hope to provide a wide range of information about chemical engineering, share advice from professionals in the field, and provide resources to aid students in the transition from the undergraduate environment to graduate school and employment," said Patrick Amaral, AIChE's career information associate.

A videotape and Web site will be launched this summer, the CD-ROM by year's end. Members interested in finding out more about this project can contact Amaral at 212/705-7096, patra@ aiche.org.