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How to Become a Mechanical Engineer After 12th – A Complete Guide

Mechanical Engineering isn’t just a branch of study - it’s the foundation on which modern industry stands. From designing precision gears to powering massive turbines, from building next-gen automobiles to engineering aircraft engines, its scope covers almost every moving system in our world.

Such national initiatives as Make in India have brought this country into an unprecedented acceleration of supporting its manufacturing ecosystem. The manufacturing sector expands almost by 10% every year, where industries have invested a lot of money into automation, robotics, aerospace, etc.

By 2030, it is expected that the requirement for mechanical engineers within India will increase beyond 20-25% (National Skill Development Corporation, 2023). Emerging fields, however, are driving the increase: automobile manufacturing, electric mobility, aerospace technologies, and robotics, and advanced manufacturing. The global automotive component industry is alone projected to attain approximately USD 200 billion by 2026, and India will play a major role in this.

Pursuing a B.E./B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering is thus the right door for those fresh aspirants into this booming area. This particular course, beyond preparing students well in foundations such as design, thermodynamics, materials, and production, also offers special interests such as Automobile Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics-internet and the future industry will have high needs for most of these core skills.

What Is Mechanical Engineering and Why Does It Matter?

Mechanical engineering is the heart of all machines. From making small tools to designing huge engines and smart machines, this branch of engineering is all about creating, designing, and improving mechanical systems. Mechanical engineering is involved, whether with car development, rocket construction, the cooling process in air conditioners, or the ascending and descending motions in an elevator.

Mechanical Engineering at Chandigarh University

Without mechanical engineering, we would have none of these things: no car, factory, or present-day housing. Mechanical engineers use science and creative thinking to help solve real-life problems; they design the way for the future through innovation and logic.

Who Is a Mechanical Engineer? Key Roles and Responsibilities

A mechanical engineer is a professional who applies engineering principles to design, analyze, manufacture and maintain mechanical systems. They work with a wide range of machines and devices, from engines and turbines to robots and medical equipment, playing a crucial role in various industries like aerospace, automotive and manufacturing.

Their key roles include:

  • Designing mechanical parts or systems
  • Testing prototypes
  • Solving mechanical problems
  • Working with software like AutoCAD and SolidWorks
  • Supervising manufacturing processes
  • Researching and developing new products

They are the thinkers and builders behind every smart machine around us.

Skills and Qualifications Needed to Become a Mechanical Engineer

Technical Skills

  • Engineering Drawing
  • CAD Software Knowledge
  • Thermodynamics & Fluid Mechanics
  • Mechanics of Materials
  • Programming Basics
  • Machine Design
  • Manufacturing Processes
  • Control Systems & Robotics
  • Problem Solving
  • Project Work

Soft Skills

  • Communication Skills
  • Teamwork
  • Critical Thinking
  • Time Management
  • Adaptability
  • Creativity
  • Work Ethics

How & Why To Start Your Journey in Mechanical Engineering with Chandigarh University

All you need to do is to make a wise choice about the university that provides quality education, connects well with the industry, and has great placement support and Chandigarh University is the great option for mechanical engineering. The most common and direct route is pursuing a 4-year B.E. degree in Mechanical Engineering after completing 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Why Chandigarh University?

With amazing rankings, awards and accreditations, Chandigarh University continues to establish itself as a leader in education, innovation and placements.

  • Chandigarh University won the overall trophy during the AIU Inter-University North Zone Youth Festival. The university also achieved the MAKA trophy awarded by President Droupadi Murmu and has been also ranked No. 1 private university in India in QS Asia University Rankings 2025 and got the 20th spot in NIRF 2024.
  • The university was also ranked 12th among North India's Best Private Engineering Colleges by India Today in 2022 and it is also a national record holder for having the maximum number of company visits for campus placement in a single academic year, as per Limca Book of Records.
  • The engineering programs at the university are also accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and the National Board of Accreditation (NBA).
  • Chandigarh University also has several industry collaborations within its engineering programs, offering specialized courses and resources in partnership with leading companies like Microsoft, IBM, Red Hat, Microsoft Azure, EMC² Academic Alliance, Virtusa, CISCO Networking Lab, etc.

A Guide to Right Course for Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering): Mechanical Engineering has developed into an artistic and scientific discipline that deals with design and development of control systems and components including fluid mechanics on material science and thermodynamics, kinematics and the rest. Mechanical engineering uses most of these central base concepts along with other tools like computer-aided design (CAD), and product lifecycle management to design, analyze and manufacture equipment.

Chandigarh University offers the world with the most comprehensive Mechanical Engineering course that goes beyond being a simple degree in mechanical engineering. It's a tough launchpad for students towards managing success amidst the changing technological landscape. With world-class facilities, many renowned industry collaborations coupled with a very strong placement record, this department can be called as the perfect destination for aspiring mechanical engineers.

Key Highlights

  • Global Accreditations: The Mechanical Engineering Department is accredited by the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) and the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring high academic standards and quality education.
  • Specializations Offered: Students can choose from industry-relevant elective specializations including Thermal and Energy Engineering, Industrial Manufacturing & Management, and Design and Simulation, Automation & Robotics. These specializations are designed to build niche expertise and align with evolving industry needs.
  • Industry Collaboration: The Mechanical Engineering department has collaborated with Amber Enterprises Pvt Ltd, MG Motors Research Lab, and the Eicher-CU Centre of Excellence, Embross Autocomp Ltd and Punjab Agency Development Agency specifically for curriculum development, collaborative research and development, as well as internships and work placements.
  • Experiential Learning: Students get a chance to learn through experience or hands-on activities as the department offers access to cutting-edge research labs such as the Flexible Manufacturing System Lab, Advanced Welding Lab (equipped with TIG and MIG setups), Thermal Research Lab, 3D Printing Lab, XRD Lab, and SEM Lab. These facilities support undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral research activities.
  • Certified Courses: The department also provides AI certifications in collaboration with Microsoft, including Azure AI Fundamentals (AI-900) and Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900). Students apply AI techniques to core engineering problems, guided by Microsoft professionals and expert mentors. Ethical AI practices are explored with real-world case studies, supplemented by optional Coursera certifications.
  • Learning through Industrial Visit: During the industrial visit, students gain exposure to industry practices and technologies, along with real-world applications of knowledge that aid in personal and professional development.
  • Learn by Doing (Hackathon Events): Active Engagement in Various Activities, Skill Development on Specific Domains and Problem, and Real-World Application.
  • Professional Society Memberships: Students actively participate in professional society chapters such as ASME, ASHRAE, and IEI Kolkata. These platforms foster networking, leadership, and continuous professional development.

Explore Career Opportunities in Mechanical Engineering

After completing your degree, the door to multiple careers opens. You can choose from government jobs, private sector roles, or even go abroad.

Mechanical Engineering offers a wide and dynamic career scope across multiple industries. Graduates can explore opportunities in the IT sector, government jobs, defense forces, energy sector, automotive components and agriculture equipment industries. The field also extends into automation, machine tools, textile, marine engineering, aircraft technologies, infrastructure, and consultancy services, making it one of the most versatile branches of engineering.

Mechanical engineers are also in high demand in major government organizations such as Oil & Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Indian Railways, Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Indian Armed Forces and BHEL, along with various leading private companies.

Also readEmerging Career Options in India in 2025

Placement Opportunities After Degree from CU in Mechanical Engineering

Engineering streams attracted the highest number of lucrative packages with 532 top notch Multinational Companies (MNCs) turning up with record 6047 offers for students of Engineering streams which also attracted the highest number of lucrative packages. The Mechanical Engineering Department has consistently maintained an excellent placement record with leading national and international recruiters. Students have received top offers from reputed companies, with the highest package reaching Rs 11 LPA from Energy Exemplar India Pvt. Ltd., followed by Rs 10 LPA from HighRadius and Rs 7.5 LPA from Ashok Leyland.

Package (Rs LPA) Company
11.0 Energy Exemplar India Pvt. Ltd.
10.0 HighRadius
7.5 Ashok Leyland

Top recruiting companies include Energy Exemplar India Ltd., Yamaha India Ltd., Reliance Industries Pvt. Ltd., Ashok Leyland, Atlas Copco India Ltd., Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd., Godrej India Ltd., Cummins India, Alstom India Pvt. Ltd., LG Electronics Pvt. Ltd., JSW Steel, Saint Gobain, Evage Automotive Pvt. Ltd., Philips India, General Electric and Royal Enfield.

Conclusion

Becoming a mechanical engineer is not just a career option. It’s a chance to build, create, and shape the world. If you are curious, hardworking, and love machines, this is your calling. Start with 12th PCM, crack your entrance exam, join a good university like Chandigarh University, and start learning with full dedication. Work on your skills, take part in internships, and stay updated with new tech.

In the end, a mechanical engineer is someone who turns ideas into real working machines – and that’s something the world will always need.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mechanical Engineering

What are the steps to become a mechanical engineer after 12th in India?

To become a mechanical engineer after 12th in India, choose Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, qualify entrance exams, and enroll in a reputable B.E./B.Tech Mechanical Engineering program like Chandigarh University.

What skills are required for a successful mechanical engineer career?

Mechanical engineers need core technical skills such as CAD, thermodynamics, and machine design, along with essential soft skills like teamwork, creativity, and effective communication.

Why is Chandigarh University a good option for Mechanical Engineering?

Chandigarh University offers globally accredited courses, industry collaborations, strong placement support, and advanced research labs, making it an excellent choice for mechanical engineering aspirants.

What are the career opportunities after completing mechanical engineering in India?

Graduates can pursue careers in government sectors like ONGC and ISRO, defense, automotive, energy, manufacturing, and many leading private companies across multiple industries.

What is the placement record for Mechanical Engineering at Chandigarh University?

Chandigarh University boasts a consistent placement record with top multinational companies offering packages up to Rs 11 LPA for mechanical engineering graduates.

What specializations can you pursue in mechanical engineering at Chandigarh University?

Specializations include Thermal and Energy Engineering, Industrial Manufacturing & Management, and Automation & Robotics to align with current industry demands and technologies.

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