I worked five years as a Project Manager where I explored how to get people to work together. I currently lead a software development team working with Internet-based technologies to reduce the design cycle time for gas turbines. In January, I completed my MBA at Cleveland State University. It was helpful because government reforms are pushing for more market-based operations. For an engineer, the coursework was interesting because it provided a strategic way to view any organization.
Business lacks the hard and exact answers that are the stock and trade of engineering.
Not all your efforts are successful. Working on the leading edge means sometimes falling off that edge. Occasionally, projects are canceled despite your best efforts. There are always some aspects of your work that you cannot completely control, but if one project fails, there are always new opportunities. I could have accepted job offers that paid more money, but, for me, the constant challenge and learning of my current job provides much greater rewards.