Mechanical engineers design tools needed by other engineers for their work. Some mechanical engineers work in production operations, maintenance, and technical sales. Many are administrators or managers. Registration may be required for mechanical engineers. Some may eventually become engineering managers.
Some engineers obtain graduate degrees in engineering to improve their advancement opportunities.
Many high-level and chief executives in industry began their careers as engineers. Engineers working in education may advance to assistant, associate, and finally full professor positions. They may also advance through administrative positions such as department chairperson, dean, vice-president, and president.