Can a process operator switch to engineering
Can a process operator switch to engineering
(OP)
I am a process operator for a petroleum refinery but I have always loved to become a production engineer in the upstream part of the business. I already have a 4yr college course work and currently planning on pursuing a bachelors in mechanical engineering but I don't know if my experience as an operator will be considered experience for engineering position after graduation. Is it really possible for a process operator to switch to engineering( production engineer/ drilling and completions or facilities engineer), what are the pros and cons. Please I need your advice.





RE: Can a process operator switch to engineering
RE: Can a process operator switch to engineering
David Simpson, PE
MuleShoe Engineering
Law is the common force organized to act as an obstacle of injustice Frédéric Bastiat
RE: Can a process operator switch to engineering
@zdas "... worked for a living" LOL. Well getting serious i guess that engineering is fun - so it dosnt count
BEst regards, Morten
RE: Can a process operator switch to engineering
David Simpson, PE
MuleShoe Engineering
Law is the common force organized to act as an obstacle of injustice Frédéric Bastiat
RE: Can a process operator switch to engineering
Thanks
RE: Can a process operator switch to engineering
If you are a dependable and respected worker in your current role your employer should see your desire to further yourself as desirable trait, I would be very surprised if they would not contribute to the costs of the course and wish you to stay within the company (if the role is offered). I worked alongside an excellent degree qualified structural design engineer some years ago whom decided pushing "a blue light along" was not something he wished to do his whole life.
The experience he gained as a metal bashing welder/fabricator was evident in his hands on approach to the more academic side of engineering and he had an excellent common sense approach us hands on guys develop. I myself started off as a draughtsman before becoming an engineer. If you have the desire go for it.