Stuff You Don't Learn in Engineering School: Skills for Success in the Real World

Rating:
Summary: Practical Advice for the Young Engineer
Review: I am always looking for good information on our fascinating profession.

when I graduated from engineering school, there was not much written for young engineers getting their first introduction to the world of work. There were plenty of books on how to "think successfuly" or "sell more" that were targeted to the liberal arts/sales types. There was very little for those of us doing technical things. This is why his book is much needed.

Carl Selinger is on target for his efforts and employers owe him a debt as well. Managers benefit because they get a window on what Carl discusses with students when they attend his seminars (which I assume is where many of the quotes from students come from).

As we go through many of the current management fads, folks like Carl seem to understand that it is the "software" (i.e., the people) that make the difference. People skills are extremely important if you expect to survive. Every good project manager I have ever worked with or sharp youngster I have had the priveledge of developing "gets it" at this basic level.

The organization of the book touches on topics that most engineering schools cannot teach.

For those of you with lower grades in enginering school than you would have liked or those of you who know a recent engineering grad or a soon to be engineering grad, this is the book for you.





Rating:
Summary: Easy Steps for Success
Review: Selinger offers a condensed, easy to read synopsis of important skills engineers need to know to succeed in business, such as how to conduct meetings, time management, and decision making. The ideas are given in practical, easy to follow, guidelines, with examples. Good sourcebook for career development.

Rating:
Summary: A Toolbox of Real World Skills Essential to Success
Review: This book is a great toolbox to start my career. The examples and tips given in "Stuff You Don't Learn in Engineering School" are truly helpful. I plan on keeping it available for referencing at each and every profession that I explore in the future.