Top 12 Engineering Technologist Skills to Put on Your Resume

In today's competitive job market, standing out as an engineering technologist requires a unique blend of technical proficiency and soft skills. This article highlights the top 12 skills that can enhance your resume, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers in the engineering field.

Engineering Technologist Skills

1. AutoCAD
2. MATLAB
3. SolidWorks
4. Python
5. LabVIEW
6. Revit
7. PLC Programming
8. ANSYS
9. D Printing
10. Lean Manufacturing
11. Project Management
12. Renewable Energy

1. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software application used by engineering technologists for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings and models essential in planning, designing, and analyzing engineering projects.

Why It's Important

AutoCAD is important for an Engineering Technologist because it enables precise and efficient creation, modification, and analysis of designs and drawings, enhancing productivity and accuracy in engineering projects.

How to Improve AutoCAD Skills

Improving your AutoCAD skills as an Engineering Technologist involves several focused strategies. Here are concise recommendations:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure a strong foundation by thoroughly understanding AutoCAD's core functions. Autodesk's official tutorials are great for this.

2. Learn Keyboard Shortcuts: Speed up your workflow significantly by mastering AutoCAD's keyboard shortcuts. Autodesk provides a useful shortcuts guide.

3. Customize Your Workspace: Tailor your AutoCAD interface to suit your workflow. Autodesk's workspace customization guide can help.

4. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving. Challenge yourself with new projects or through practice exercises found on platforms like Lynda.com.

5. Stay Updated: AutoCAD is regularly updated. Stay informed about new features and improvements through the Autodesk blog.

6. Join Forums and Communities: Engage with fellow users for tips, advice, and shared experiences. The AutoCAD forums are a great place to start.

7. Attend Workshops and Webinars: Participate in workshops and webinars for hands-on learning and insights from professionals. Check out Autodesk's events page.

8. Gain Certification: Validate your skills and stand out by obtaining AutoCAD certification. Details can be found on Autodesk's certification page.

By integrating these strategies into your routine, you can significantly enhance your AutoCAD skills and efficiency as an Engineering Technologist.

How to Display AutoCAD Skills on Your Resume

2. MATLAB

MATLAB is a high-level programming and numerical computing environment used by engineering technologists for data analysis, algorithm development, and simulation.

Why It's Important

MATLAB is important for an Engineering Technologist because it provides a powerful and flexible environment for numerical computation, visualization, and algorithm development, enabling the efficient solving of complex engineering problems and the analysis of vast amounts of data.

How to Improve MATLAB Skills

Improving your MATLAB skills as an Engineering Technologist involves enhancing both your understanding of the software's capabilities and your ability to apply its features to solve engineering problems efficiently. Here are concise steps with resources to help you improve:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure you have a strong grasp of MATLAB fundamentals. MATLAB Onramp is a free introductory course by MathWorks that covers the basics.

2. Learn Through Projects: Apply what you've learned in real or simulated projects. This hands-on approach solidifies understanding. MathWorks File Exchange provides user-submitted scripts and functions you can learn from and apply to your projects.

3. Utilize MATLAB Toolboxes: Explore and learn to use toolboxes relevant to your field. Each toolbox provides functions and apps designed for specific types of tasks. Toolboxes Overview can help you find what's most relevant.

4. Join the Community: Engage with the MATLAB community for support, to ask questions, and to share knowledge. The MATLAB Central is a great place to start.

5. Continuous Learning: Keep up-to-date with new features and best practices. MathWorks offers Courses and Certifications for deeper learning.

6. Practice Coding Efficiency: Learn to write efficient MATLAB code. This includes preallocating arrays, vectorizing loops, and using built-in functions. The MATLAB Code Optimization guide provides best practices.

7. Explore Advanced Features: Dive into advanced topics like Simulink for simulation and Model-Based Design, or MATLAB’s capabilities for Deep Learning. Simulink and Deep Learning Toolbox offer extensive resources.

By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can significantly improve your MATLAB skills, thereby enhancing your capability to solve complex engineering problems more effectively.

How to Display MATLAB Skills on Your Resume

3. SolidWorks

SolidWorks is a computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software used by engineering technologists for creating 2D and 3D models, simulations, and detailed drawings of mechanical components and systems.

Why It's Important

SolidWorks is crucial for Engineering Technologists as it provides a powerful, intuitive tool for designing, simulating, and refining 3D models, enhancing the efficiency, accuracy, and productivity of engineering projects.

How to Improve SolidWorks Skills

Improving SolidWorks skills as an Engineering Technologist involves a mix of practice, learning new features, and staying updated with the latest industry standards. Here are concise ways to enhance your SolidWorks capabilities:

1. Practice Regularly: Hands-on experience is crucial. Set aside time each week to work on personal or tutorial projects.

2. Online Tutorials and Courses: Platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy offer comprehensive courses for all levels.

3. SolidWorks Certification: Aim to achieve SolidWorks certifications like CSWA or CSWP to validate your skills. Check the SolidWorks Certification Center for more information.

4. Use the SolidWorks Resources: Leverage the SolidWorks Forums and SolidWorks Help for troubleshooting and tips.

5. Stay Updated: Follow SolidWorks blogs and subscribe to channels like SOLIDWORKS YouTube for the latest updates and features.

6. Networking: Join SolidWorks user groups or forums online to exchange knowledge and experiences with peers.

By integrating these practices into your routine, you can significantly improve your proficiency in SolidWorks, making you a more effective and efficient Engineering Technologist.

How to Display SolidWorks Skills on Your Resume

4. Python

Python is a high-level, versatile programming language known for its simplicity and readability, widely used in software engineering, data analysis, automation, and web development.

Why It's Important

Python is important for an Engineering Technologist because it offers a simple, versatile programming language for automating tasks, analyzing data, and developing complex engineering solutions efficiently.

How to Improve Python Skills

To improve your Python skills as an Engineering Technologist, focus on these key areas:

1. Master the Basics: Ensure a solid understanding of Python syntax and fundamental concepts. Python Official Docs offer comprehensive guidance.

2. Data Handling: Learn to manipulate data using libraries like Pandas and NumPy.

3. Visualization: Master data visualization with Matplotlib and Seaborn for insightful data presentations.

4. Automation: Enhance your efficiency by automating repetitive tasks. Start with Automate the Boring Stuff with Python.

5. Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): Understand OOP concepts to write more modular and efficient code. Real Python’s OOP Guide is a great resource.

6. Version Control: Use Git for version control and collaboration. It’s essential for managing changes and working in teams.

7. Engage in Projects: Apply your skills in real-world projects. GitHub is a good place to find project ideas.

8. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest in Python and technology trends via platforms like Medium and Stack Overflow.

9. Join a Community: Engage with Python communities on Reddit or Stack Overflow to exchange knowledge and experiences.

10. Debugging Skills: Improve debugging skills by using Python’s debugging tools to efficiently solve problems in your code.

By focusing on these areas and utilizing the provided resources, you can significantly enhance your Python skills and apply them effectively in your role as an Engineering Technologist.

How to Display Python Skills on Your Resume

5. LabVIEW

LabVIEW (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench) is a graphical programming platform used by engineering technologists for data acquisition, instrument control, and industrial automation, enabling the design of sophisticated measurement, test, and control systems through a visual interface.

Why It's Important

LabVIEW is vital for Engineering Technologists because it provides a powerful and intuitive graphical programming environment for designing, analyzing, and controlling complex systems, significantly enhancing productivity and enabling efficient data acquisition, instrument control, and automation.

How to Improve LabVIEW Skills

Improving your LabVIEW skills as an Engineering Technologist involves mastering both the technical aspects of the software and understanding best practices for efficient and effective programming. Here are concise recommendations:

1. Understand Core Concepts: Start with a solid foundation by thoroughly understanding LabVIEW's dataflow programming model, its graphical interface, and basic functionalities. NI's Getting Started page offers an excellent introduction.

2. Use Templates and Sample Projects: Leverage built-in templates and sample projects to learn best practices and efficient design patterns. LabVIEW Templates and Sample Projects guide provides insights on how to use these resources.

3. Modular Programming: Embrace modular programming by creating reusable VIs (Virtual Instruments) that can be easily integrated into larger systems. This approach enhances code readability and maintenance. Modular Programming discusses the principles and advantages.

4. Debugging Skills: Sharpen your debugging skills. LabVIEW offers various tools for debugging, such as probes and execution highlighting. Understanding these tools will significantly speed up your development process. Debugging Techniques in LabVIEW provides a comprehensive overview.

5. Learn Advanced Features: As you become more comfortable, start exploring advanced features like LabVIEW classes for object-oriented programming, which can offer more scalable and maintainable code solutions. The Object-Oriented Design in LabVIEW tutorial is a great resource.

6. Continuous Learning: The LabVIEW environment is vast, with constant updates and new tools. Engage with the LabVIEW community through forums, user groups, and attending NI Week for the latest trends and tips. The NI Community is a valuable resource for staying updated and getting help.

7. Certification: Consider pursuing certification levels (CLAD, CLD, CLA) offered by NI. Preparing for these certifications naturally enhances your skill level and understanding of LabVIEW. The Certification and Training page gives an overview of what's available.

By focusing on these areas, you'll be well on your way to improving your LabVIEW skills, leading to more efficient, effective, and high-quality engineering solutions.

How to Display LabVIEW Skills on Your Resume

6. Revit

Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software used by engineering technologists, architects, and other construction professionals to design, simulate, manage, and document building projects in 3D, facilitating coordination, analysis, and visualization throughout the project lifecycle.

Why It's Important

Revit is crucial for Engineering Technologists as it facilitates efficient design, analysis, and collaboration through Building Information Modeling (BIM), enabling the creation of accurate, coordinated, and complete digital representations of buildings.

How to Improve Revit Skills

Improving your skills in Revit, especially as an Engineering Technologist, involves a combination of training, practice, and the use of resources to enhance efficiency and productivity. Here are concise steps to improve your Revit capabilities:

1. Undergo Official Training: Start with Autodesk's official training courses to understand fundamental and advanced features.

2. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key. Utilize resources like Lynda.com for various project-based tutorials.

3. Join Forums and Communities: Engage with communities such as the Revit Forum or Autodesk Community to share knowledge and solve challenges.

4. Learn from YouTube Tutorials: Channels like The Revit Kid and Balkan Architect offer practical advice and tutorials.

5. Stay Updated: Revit software gets annual updates. Stay informed about new features and best practices through Autodesk’s official site.

6. Implement Add-Ins and Tools: Enhance your workflow with Revit add-ins. Explore options at the Autodesk App Store for tools that can streamline your projects.

7. Attend Workshops and Webinars: Participate in workshops and webinars offered by Autodesk and other professional bodies to learn new tips and tricks.

By engaging with these resources and consistently practicing, you can significantly improve your Revit skills and efficiency in your role as an Engineering Technologist.

How to Display Revit Skills on Your Resume

7. PLC Programming

PLC programming involves creating and implementing instructions for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), which are specialized computers used in industrial and engineering applications to automate machinery and processes. It requires understanding of control theory, programming languages specific to PLCs (like Ladder Logic, Structured Text, or Function Block Diagram), and the operational requirements of the system being automated.

Why It's Important

PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming is crucial for Engineering Technologists as it enables the automation and control of industrial machinery and processes, enhancing efficiency, reliability, and safety in manufacturing and engineering operations.

How to Improve PLC Programming Skills

Improving PLC programming as an Engineering Technologist involves a blend of understanding core concepts, hands-on practice, continuous learning, and leveraging resources effectively. Here's a very short and concise guide:

1. Understand the Basics: Ensure a solid grasp of fundamental concepts such as logic gates, memory structure, and I/O processing. PLC Academy offers a good starting point.

2. Learn Ladder Logic: Most PLCs use Ladder Logic. Mastering it is crucial. PLCdev provides resources for beginners and advanced users.

3. Hands-on Practice: Apply your knowledge through real-world projects or simulations. RealPars offers practical examples and tutorials.

4. Understand Your PLC: Different PLCs have unique features and programming environments. Refer to the manufacturer’s manual and resources for specific insights.

5. Stay Updated: Technology evolves; subscribe to forums like PLCTalk for the latest trends, solutions, and community support.

6. Use Simulation Software: Before implementing, test your programs using simulation software. This helps in identifying and fixing errors early.

7. Seek Feedback and Collaborate: Share your programs with peers for review. Collaboration platforms like GitHub can be used for sharing and receiving feedback.

8. Continuous Learning: Enroll in advanced courses or certifications to deepen your skillset. Websites like Udemy and Coursera offer courses tailored to PLC programming.

By integrating these practices into your development process, you'll enhance your PLC programming skills effectively.

How to Display PLC Programming Skills on Your Resume

8. ANSYS

ANSYS is a comprehensive software suite for engineering simulation and 3D design, used by engineering technologists to model, analyze, and optimize the performance of structures, fluids, and electronic systems across various industries.

Why It's Important

ANSYS is important for an Engineering Technologist because it provides advanced simulation tools that enable the prediction, visualization, and optimization of product performance, enhancing design accuracy, reducing time to market, and enabling more innovative solutions while minimizing costs and risks associated with physical prototyping.

How to Improve ANSYS Skills

Improving ANSYS proficiency as an Engineering Technologist involves a combination of hands-on practice, continuous learning, and leveraging community resources. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Understand the Basics: Start with the fundamentals of ANSYS. Ensure you grasp the core concepts of simulation, modeling, and analysis. ANSYS official tutorials provide a good starting point.

2. Hands-On Practice: Apply what you learn through projects. Experiment with different simulation scenarios to understand the tool's capabilities and limitations. The Cornell Ansys Tutorials offer practical exercises.

3. Specialize: Depending on your field, delve deeper into specific modules (e.g., Fluent for fluid dynamics, Mechanical for structural analysis). ANSYS offers specialized training for various applications.

4. Stay Updated: ANSYS continuously evolves. Keep abreast with the latest features and updates through the ANSYS Blog.

5. Join the Community: Engage with the ANSYS user community through forums and social media. The ANSYS User Resource Page is a great place to start. Sharing experiences and solutions with peers can provide new insights and shortcuts.

6. Utilize Online Learning Resources: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on ANSYS and related engineering concepts, often taught by industry professionals.

By following these steps and consistently applying yourself, you can significantly improve your ANSYS skills, leading to more efficient and innovative engineering solutions.

How to Display ANSYS Skills on Your Resume

9. D Printing

3D printing, for an Engineering Technologist, is a manufacturing process that creates three-dimensional objects by layering materials based on digital models, enabling rapid prototyping, complex designs, and customization.

Why It's Important

3D printing is important for Engineering Technologists because it enables rapid prototyping, reduces manufacturing costs, allows for complex design customization, and accelerates the development process of engineering projects.

How to Improve D Printing Skills

Improving 3D printing involves optimizing the printing process, enhancing material properties, and employing advanced technologies to achieve higher precision, strength, and efficiency. Here are concise strategies tailored for an Engineering Technologist:

1. Optimize Printing Parameters: Fine-tune printer settings such as layer height, printing speed, and temperature to enhance print quality. All3DP offers guidelines on adjusting these parameters.

2. Material Science: Experiment with different materials and composites to find the right balance of strength, flexibility, and durability for your application. The Material Project provides a database for researching material properties.

3. Post-Processing Techniques: Employ techniques like sanding, chemical smoothing, or annealing to improve the surface finish and mechanical properties of printed parts. Formlabs has a comprehensive guide on post-processing.

4. Incorporate Simulation Software: Use simulation software to predict and rectify potential issues in the design phase, reducing material waste and printing time. Autodesk offers solutions tailored to 3D printing.

5. Upgrade Hardware: Consider upgrading printer components such as the extruder, hotend, or build plate to improve reliability and print quality. Prusa Printers discusses affordable upgrades.

6. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest 3D printing technologies and methodologies by following reputable sources like 3D Printing Industry for news and advancements.

By combining these strategies, an Engineering Technologist can significantly enhance the capabilities and outcomes of 3D printing projects.

How to Display D Printing Skills on Your Resume

10. Lean Manufacturing

Lean Manufacturing is a systematic approach aimed at minimizing waste within manufacturing systems while simultaneously maximizing productivity. It focuses on enhancing value for the customer through continuous improvement of processes.

Why It's Important

Lean Manufacturing is important because it enhances efficiency and quality by minimizing waste and optimizing processes, leading to increased productivity, reduced costs, and improved product value for Engineering Technologists.

How to Improve Lean Manufacturing Skills

Improving Lean Manufacturing involves continuously optimizing processes to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality. For an Engineering Technologist, focus on the following strategies:

1. Value Stream Mapping: Analyze and design the flow of materials and information to bring a product or service to a consumer. This helps identify waste and areas for improvement. Learn More.

2. 5S Methodology: Implement the 5S (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) to organize and optimize the workplace. It enhances efficiency and safety. 5S Details.

3. Kaizen (Continuous Improvement): Foster a culture of continuous small improvements involving everyone from top management to floor workers. This approach can lead to significant benefits over time. Kaizen Guide.

4. Just-In-Time (JIT) Production: Reduce inventory costs and increase efficiency by producing just what is needed, when it's needed, and in the amount needed. Explore JIT.

5. Root Cause Analysis: When a problem occurs, use tools such as the 5 Whys or Fishbone Diagram to drill down to the problem's root cause, rather than just addressing symptoms. Root Cause Tools.

6. Standardized Work: Develop and use standard procedures for each operation to ensure consistency and quality. This also makes it easier to train new employees and to identify areas for improvement. Standardization Insight.

7. Automation and Technology: Where appropriate, use technology and automation to reduce variability, improve quality, and free up human resources for tasks that add more value. Automation in Lean.

8. Employee Empowerment and Training: Equip employees with the skills and authority to identify inefficiencies and make improvements. Continuous learning and empowerment are key. Empowerment Strategies.

Focusing on these strategies and continuously seeking ways to eliminate waste and improve efficiency is fundamental to advancing lean manufacturing practices as an Engineering Technologist.

How to Display Lean Manufacturing Skills on Your Resume

11. Project Management

Project management is the process of leading the work of a team to achieve all project goals within the given constraints, such as time, cost, and scope. For an Engineering Technologist, this involves planning, executing, and overseeing engineering projects, ensuring they are completed efficiently and effectively, leveraging technical skills to meet project objectives.

Why It's Important

Project management is crucial for Engineering Technologists as it ensures efficient planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects within scope, time, and budget constraints, optimizing resource use and achieving technical objectives effectively.

How to Improve Project Management Skills

Improving project management, especially for an Engineering Technologist, involves a blend of leveraging technology, enhancing communication skills, and applying best practices. Here are concise strategies:

1. Adopt Project Management Software: Utilize tools like Asana, Trello, or Microsoft Project to streamline task assignments, deadlines, and communication.

2. Implement Agile Methodologies: Embrace agile frameworks such as Scrum or Kanban to enhance flexibility and team collaboration.

3. Enhance Communication Skills: Strengthen team communication by utilizing platforms like Slack for instant messaging and Zoom for video conferencing to keep team members aligned.

4. Pursue Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest project management trends and tools through platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.

5. Emphasize Time Management: Apply techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique or time-blocking to manage tasks efficiently.

6. Utilize Risk Management Tools: Identify and mitigate project risks using strategies and tools outlined by PMI’s Risk Management Guide.

7. Focus on Team Building: Foster a supportive team environment by organizing regular team-building activities, both in-person and virtually.

By integrating these strategies into your project management approach, you can significantly improve efficiency, collaboration, and project success rates.

How to Display Project Management Skills on Your Resume

12. Renewable Energy

Renewable energy refers to power generated from natural and inexhaustible resources such as sunlight, wind, water, and geothermal heat, which are replenished on a human timescale. It is a key component in sustainable engineering practices, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

Why It's Important

Renewable energy is crucial for an Engineering Technologist because it represents a sustainable, environmentally friendly solution to meet increasing energy demands, reduces dependency on finite fossil fuels, and mitigates climate change impacts by lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

How to Improve Renewable Energy Skills

Improving renewable energy involves enhancing efficiency, reliability, and integration into the existing energy grid. For an Engineering Technologist, focusing on the following areas is crucial:

1. Material Advancements: Innovate and use advanced materials for solar panels and wind turbines to increase their efficiency and lifespan. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) offers insights into ongoing research in materials.

2. Energy Storage: Improve energy storage technologies to address the intermittency of renewable sources. Explore advancements in battery technology through resources like the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

3. Grid Integration: Work on smart grid technologies to better integrate renewable sources. Information and resources can be found at the Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA).

4. System Optimization: Utilize software and IoT for real-time monitoring and management of renewable energy systems. The IEEE Xplore Digital Library provides access to the latest research in this area.

5. Policy and Economic Analysis: Understanding policy and economic factors that influence renewable energy projects is crucial. The U.S. Department of Energy provides updates and resources on policy and funding opportunities.

Focusing on these areas can lead to significant improvements in the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and integration of renewable energy technologies.

How to Display Renewable Energy Skills on Your Resume