Graduate Engineer/Retail Manager

doledude86

Looking for advice from experienced engineers, went to college and got myself a hons degree in Manufacturing Engineering (as you know this can cover a multitude of disciplines) This was 3years ago, at the time there was very little work to be got and when I did get a job as a CAD technician I was released after 3months due to cut backs, I then was unemployed for 3months and took a job in a well known retailer as a Sales Assistant I was promoted to manager in this role a year later and have been doing that for 2years now, Im looking to get myself back into engineering but to be honest I feel that door maybe closed to me now, I don't know where? or how to look or what to be aiming for?

If any experienced engineers who know the industry could help me id be very grateful.

chris85

doledude86 wrote: »

Looking for advice from experienced engineers, went to college and got myself a hons degree in Manufacturing Engineering (as you know this can cover a multitude of disciplines) This was 3years ago, at the time there was very little work to be got and when I did get a job as a CAD technician I was released after 3months due to cut backs, I then was unemployed for 3months and took a job in a well known retailer as a Sales Assistant I was promoted to manager in this role a year later and have been doing that for 2years now, Im looking to get myself back into engineering but to be honest I feel that door maybe closed to me now, I don't know where? or how to look or what to be aiming for?

If any experienced engineers who know the industry could help me id be very grateful.

I was in similar situation as graduated in 2008. Travelled a year and when game back couldn't get a job in engineering despite having contract with a company to start in return who screwed me over. I worked in financial services for few years awhile trying in vain to get into engineering. I ended up quiting the job and doing a masters full time in a year. Finished that last month and started great engineering job last week. Long Road but may be worth thinking of upskilling.

You can drop me a PM anytime if you want anymore info.

doledude86

I appreciate that Chris, I have to be careful though cause I have mortgage

Donelson

Why do you want a change in career?
In Ireland if you are any good as an engineer they will push you into management. Is this what you want?
So in five years you could be in management and I reckon there are better ways to get there with out rearranging your whole life for it.

doledude86

But I dont think I can build a career id be happy with coming from retail management!

chris85

doledude86 wrote: »

But I dont think I can build a career id be happy with coming from retail management!

Would you be able to consider doing a masters part time over a few years which would help? You Really management experience would help partly as already mentioned many engineers go into management roles.

It's tough to get on that first step. Have you applied to many jobs.or had many interviews?