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The Learning Resources Collection
Learning is a lifelong journey. Explore our growing collection of free learning resources and articles.
Article
Sep 1, 2026
Mechanical Engineers Turn Ideas into Businesses
Author
Robin Flanigan
Mechanical engineers have the problem-solving mindset entrepreneurship demands, but turning an idea into a business also requires persistence and a willingness to learn new skills.
Article
Aug 28, 2026
Building a Career at the Intersection of GD&T, 3D Scanning, and AI
Author
Cathy Cecere
For dimensional engineer Narasimha Sainath Akella, GD&T certification helped open the door to a specialized career shaped by digital inspection, 3D scanning, and AI.
Quiz
Aug 21, 2026
Quiz: ASME Career Center
Author
Cathy Cecere
Test your knowledge of mechanical engineering careers, from salaries and skills to education requirements and job outlook, using information from the ASME Career Center.
Article
Aug 19, 2026
Community College Plays a Key Role Addressing Workforce Shortage
Author
Claudia Hoffacker
A new ASME white paper shows how community colleges can strengthen the engineering talent pipeline and prepare more students for technical careers.
Article
Aug 17, 2026
8 Strategies for Building a Smarter Career Path
Author
Robin Flanigan
Mechanical engineers can make building a career easier by planning ahead, building strong networks, and choosing opportunities that connect one move to the next.
Article
Aug 5, 2026
Professionalism Is Key to Career Growth for Mechanical Engineers
Author
Claudia Hoffacker
Technical skills may open doors for mechanical engineers. But professionalism helps these professionals build trust, demonstrate reliability, prove adaptability, and advance their careers.
Article
Aug 3, 2026
STEM Talent Shortage Could Cost U.S. $1.4 Trillion
Author
Cathy Cecere
A new report warns that the U.S. could lose $1.4 trillion in economic output over the next decade if STEM talent fails to keep pace with demand.
Article
Jul 29, 2026
7 Ways to Beat Burnout in Engineering
Author
Robin Flanigan
Burnout is rising among engineers. But there are ways to stay effective when work is nonstop.
Article
Jul 28, 2026
In the Age of AI, Fundamentals and the FE Exam Still Matter
Author
Jerry Guerra
The FE exam remains a valuable benchmark of technical competence while rising participation and strong mechanical engineering pass rates prove the test is still relevant in a changing profession.
Article
Jul 28, 2026
How to Become an Ethical Engineer
Author
Kayt Sukel
As technology advances, engineers face increasing ethical dilemmas. Are today’s professionals prepared to make responsible decisions?
Article
Jul 22, 2026
As Energy Needs Rise, Demand for Temporary Engineers Grows
Author
Cathy Cecere
Data centers and power projects are boosting demand for temporary mechanical engineers. But the outlook across sectors is mixed even as contract roles still offer high pay and a way to build skills.
Article
Jul 22, 2026
Training and Certifying GD&T: The Universal Language of Precision Manufacturing
Author
Cathy Cecere
As design, sourcing, and manufacturing grow ever more complex, GD&T remains essential to clear engineering communication, better drawings, and stronger manufacturing outcomes.
Article
Jul 20, 2026
Better Listening Builds Better Careers
Author
Jerry Guerra
For engineers, better listening can reveal critical information, strengthen trust, and lead to smarter decisions.
Article
Jul 8, 2026
The Importance of Mechatronics for Modern Engineering
Author
Claudia Hoffacker
Mechatronics is behind the development of a wide range of products and machines—from household items as simple as a diaper to innovative technology as sophisticated as electric vehicles.
Article
Jul 6, 2026
Is AI a Help or Hurdle for Engineers Looking to Get Hired?
Author
Claudia Hoffacker
As AI tools reshape hiring, mechanical engineers need to understand how algorithms screen resumes, match skills to job descriptions, and influence who gets a closer look.
Article
Jun 17, 2026
Ethics in Engineering: Culture and Accountability
Author
Claudia Hoffacker
Engineering ethics is about daily decisions, clear AI policies, and a workplace culture that empowers engineers to raise concerns and put safety first.
Article
Jun 15, 2026
Mechanical Engineers Find Purpose in Public Service
Author
Robin Flanigan
From infrastructure and energy to safety and policy, mechanical engineers play vital roles in government service at every level.
Article
Jun 10, 2026
Engineers Must Prepare for an AI-Driven Future
Author
Robin Flanigan
Mechanical engineers who build AI fluency, strengthen communication skills, and keep learning can stay competitive as the technology reshapes engineering work.
Article
Jun 10, 2026
Communicating Design with Precision
Author
Cathy Cecere
For Sagar Bocheer, GDTP certification validates design clarity, global alignment, and risk reduction.
Article
Jun 3, 2026
Public Policy Engineers Meet a Critical Need for a Complex Future
Author
Cathy Cecere
Engineering expertise is vital in the arena of public policy as local, state, and federal governments tackle challenges in energy, infrastructure, innovation, and public welfare.
Article
May 27, 2026
Blog: Paying Mechanical Engineers
Author
Cathy Cecere
Mechanical engineer salaries remain strong in 2026, with professional services, energy, and leading metro areas helping drive demand and pay higher across the United States.
Article
May 20, 2026
Engineer PMs Use Their Expertise for Design and Delivery
Author
Jerry Guerra
Mechanical engineers must learn to blend their technical insight, real-world constraints, and understanding of systems to become better project managers and deliver improved projects.
Quiz
May 15, 2026
Quiz: Engineers and Mental Health
Author
Sarah Alburakeh
Engineering can be a high-stress field. At what point does pressure become a problem? See what you know about mental health, burnout signs, and student support.
Article
May 13, 2026
Workforce Blog: Improving Mental Health in Engineering
Author
Louise Poirier
Embedded mental health supports offer engineering students the necessary resources when facing stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout.
Article
May 6, 2026
Ethical Concerns Increase as AI Use and Innovations Grow
Author
Cathy Cecere
Real world AI harm is on the rise. Yet many companies embrace AI risks without proper governance guardrails.
Article
Apr 23, 2026
Top Mechanical Engineering Research Areas in 2026
Author
Jen Thomas
Explore the dynamic world of 2026 mechanical engineering research. Find out how experts tackle challenges in robotics, energy, biomechanics, and manufacturing.
Article
Apr 22, 2026
Seek and Use Feedback for Successful Engineering Career
Author
Claudia Hoffacker
Feedback can sting, but it’s one of the fastest ways for an engineer to grow. Here’s how to ask for feedback, hear it clearly, and turn it into an action plan.
Article
Apr 8, 2026
IP Protection Considers AI
Author
Jerry Guerra
While engineers tend to focus on patents when it comes to IP protection, mechanical engineers need to be aware of other IP tools and have a proactive mindset.
Article
Apr 1, 2026
Workforce Blog: Strategic Philanthropy Closes the Talent Gap
Corporate partners invest in workforce development and the greater good.
Article
Mar 18, 2026
Mechanical Engineers and Protecting IP
Author
Jerry Guerra
Understanding when innovation is patentable and how missteps can erase protection is essential knowledge for today’s mechanical engineers.
Article
Mar 10, 2026
Manufacturing Faces Critical Gaps
Author
Kayt Sukel
A new report by the Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte suggests the future of manufacturing requires filling jobs—and upskilling workers.
Article
Mar 4, 2026
Want a Successful Engineering Career? Work on Communication
Author
Claudia Hoffacker
Even extraordinary technical expertise will only take a mechanical engineer so far. Communication skills—both verbal and written—are also critical for a successful engineering career.
Article
Mar 4, 2026
Workforce Blog: Inclusive Leadership Drives Tomorrow’s Workforce
Growing a future-focused, powerful engineering workforce requires authenticity and inclusivity.
Article
Feb 18, 2026
Technology Represents Both Promise and Pressure
Author
Jerry Guerra
From advanced modeling software to artificial intelligence, technology may promise to ease workloads but instead often intensifies the strain to keep pace with a growing arsenal of digital tools.
Article
Feb 5, 2026
Engineers are Optimistic, but AI Skills Gaps Continue
Author
Cathy Cecere
Most U.S. STEM professionals are optimistic about innovation, but AI skills gaps pose major challenges, highlighting the need for better governance, training, and workforce investment.
Article
Feb 4, 2026
Paying Mechanical Engineers in Professional Services
Author
Cathy Cecere
Mechanical engineers who work in professional services face complex projects, demanding clients, and multidisciplined deliverables. Add retiring staff and wages are up and are expected to keep rising.
Article
Feb 2, 2026
Scholarship Recipients Thrive in Engineering
Author
Cathy Cecere
Among the 139 individuals who were recently named as ASME’s 2025–2026 scholarship recipients, three students discuss what ASME grant money means to their college plans and future careers.
Article
Jan 28, 2026
Workforce Blog: Engineers Fit to a “T”
In the age of cyber-physical solutions, we need T-shaped innovators more than ever.
Article
Jan 21, 2026
Closing the Gender Patenting Gap
Author
Jim Romeo
When it comes to patent applications, women are rejected more and after pushback, are more likely to abandon the process. But persistence and attention to examiners’ feedback may help the situation.
Quiz
Jan 9, 2026
Quiz: Engineering Skills Check, According to Hiring Managers
Author
Sarah Alburakeh
Do you have the engineering skills hiring managers are looking for? Find out with this ASME quiz.
Article
Jan 7, 2026
Firms Offer Mechanical Engineers Challenges and Opportunities
Author
Jim Romeo
The largest employers of mechanical engineers in the U.S. are professional services firms that leverage their expertise to meet tight project timelines and complex multi-disciplinary client mandates.
Article
Dec 17, 2025
Demand and Salaries Grow for Mechanical Engineers
Author
Cathy Cecere
Even though nearly 300,000 mechanical engineers are currently working in the United States today, demand is increasing and so is compensation.
Article
Dec 16, 2025
Top 5 Career Articles of 2025
Have a look at 2025’s most popular career-related pieces on ASME.org.
Article
Dec 3, 2025
Requiring CS & AI May Not Meet Industry’s True Needs
Author
Jerry Guerra
As many policymakers and others recommend that computer science and AI be core U.S. educational requirements, not everyone in the industry agrees this action will best address engineers’ needs.
Article
Dec 1, 2025
ASME’S Course Builder Works for Seasoned Trainers and Those Just Starting to Create Self-Guided Courses
Skilled mechanical engineers and experienced training organizations now have an easy way to pass on what they know to a ready-made community of learners.
Article
Nov 19, 2025
Mechanical Engineers Should Embrace Public Speaking
Author
Claudia Hoffacker
Mechanical engineers must embrace the critical, foundational skill of persuasive speaking and communicating in front of a group as an essential way to grow and achieve career advancement.
Article
Nov 13, 2025
Five Steps to Successfully Change an Engineer’s Career
Author
Aida Toro
Engineers are natural problem solvers. But these five tips can make building a roadmap toward a career beyond engineering one step easier.
Article
Nov 12, 2025
Blog: The Inevitable March Toward AI Robotics Continues
Author
Cathy Cecere
Amid pressure to “get the work done” and need for affordable, creative solutions, organizations are increasing embracing robots and AI in nearly every industry from reclamation to manufacturing.
Article
Nov 5, 2025
What to do When You’re Stuck at Work with a Slacker?
Author
Robin Flanigan
No organization is immune to the problem of coworkers who don’t fully contribute. But when someone on the team is coming up short, don’t rush to conclusions.
Video
Nov 3, 2025
Breaking Barriers in STEM
Alexis Sidiropoulos is one of the Principal Investigators at BRAVO – the Biomechanics Research for the Advancement of Veteran Outcomes Laboratory at the Department of Veterans Affairs New York Harbor Healthcare System.
Quiz
Oct 31, 2025
Quiz: U.S. Manufacturing Salaries in 2025
Author
Cathy Cecere
Mechanical engineers work across the United States in every sector of manufacturing. Find out what you know when it comes to the manufacturers that employ and pay MEs with this ASME quiz.
Article
Oct 29, 2025
Workforce Blog: Launching Future Innovators
As newer and greater challenges arise for tomorrow’s engineers, the leaders of today must play a role in ensuring their success.
Article
Oct 10, 2025
Turning Engineering Expertise into Global Impact
Article
Oct 1, 2025
6 High-Value Minor Degrees for Mechanical Engineers in 2025
Author
Jerry Guerra
A well-chosen minor reflects initiative, expands one’s technical toolkit, and shows awareness of engineering’s future. Here are six minors that recruiters and employers find valuable in 2025.
Article
Sep 24, 2025
Workforce Blog: Engineering the Future Takes All of Us
The ASME Foundation is accelerating its work to ensure engineering talent has viable pathways to success.
Quiz
Sep 19, 2025
Quiz: U.S. Manufacturing Rebounds
Author
Cathy Cecere
U.S. manufacturing employment has reached levels above those recorded pre-pandemic. Find out how much you know about this post-pandemic shift in manufacturing growth and employment.
Article
Sep 17, 2025
Skills-First Hiring Stresses Real-World Abilities
Author
Jim Romeo
Skills-first hiring shifts the spotlight from traditional qualifications like college degrees or years of experience and to a candidate’s real-world abilities and competencies.
Article
Sep 3, 2025
Engineering a Team Using Communication and Continuous Learning
Author
Jim Romeo
Building successful engineering teams begins with ensuring members have no fear of taking a risk or sharing an idea. Other factors include communication and continuous learning.
Article
Aug 20, 2025
Cold Feet Retirement: Destination Is Key
Author
Jerry Guerra
As engineers age out of the workforce, many are seeking phased transitions—rather than abrupt exits.
Article
Aug 6, 2025
The Benefit of Volunteering: Giving Back is Good for You
Author
Jerry Guerra
For professionals with deep responsibilities and demanding schedules, giving their time, energy, and expertise is deliberate. The reason for engineers to volunteer is just as direct—it’s good for you.
Article
Jul 30, 2025
Blog: Engineers Integral to a Successful Circular Economy
Author
Cathy Cecere
Mechanical engineers are on the frontlines of sustainability—from reduce, reuse, and recycle, to the importance of delivering success in the circular economy.
Article
Jul 16, 2025
Conflict Isn’t the Problem, Failing to Address It Is
Author
Jerry Guerra
How mechanical engineers can tackle workplace tension without derailing collaboration.
Quiz
Jul 11, 2025
Quiz: What Do You Know About Top Small Engineering Programs?
Big research universities get most of the attention, but colleges that don’t grant doctorates can provide a solid education in a variety of settings.
Infographic
Jul 3, 2025
5 Essential Skills for Early‑Career Engineers
Author
Sarah Alburakeh
These five skills reflect what’s in demand for today’s mechanical engineering roles.
Article
Jul 2, 2025
Top Job Hunting and Career Tips for Engineers
Author
Cathy Cecere
Given their knowledge and expertise, recruiters can offer engineering students and early career engineers top professional development and job-hunting advice.
Article
Jun 25, 2025
Blog: Domestic Pharma Manufacturers Look to Expand
Author
Cathy Cecere
Increased pressure on foreign producers means domestic pharmaceutical manufacturers now have a green light to expand their U.S. operations. But not everyone foresees a problem-free future.
Article
Jun 18, 2025
Optimism Increases with Smarter Manufacturing
Author
Cathy Cecere
Engineers closest to digital manufacturing and smart factories report they are optimistic as organizations look ahead to Industry 4.0 and digital transformation.
Article
Jun 4, 2025
Mechanical Engineers Thrive in the Green Economy
Author
Jerry Guerra
A green economy presents opportunities as industries worldwide prioritize sustainability and developing and implementing technologies that reduce environmental impact and promote energy efficiency.
Article
Jun 2, 2025
Volunteering Builds Engineers and Their Communities
Author
Jim Romeo
For mechanical engineers, volunteering often starts in college and as they encourage others to learn more about ME, they frequently get a real-life education on networking and working in a community.
Article
May 22, 2025
Mechanical Engineers Continue to Work from Home
Author
Jerry Guerra
As the world gradually returns to the office, many mechanical engineers continue to enjoy the benefits of remote work and continue to face visibility, communication, and productivity challenges.
Article
May 16, 2025
Quiz: The Engineering Class of 2025
The Class of 2025 has entered the chat. Test what you know about the new wave of engineers with this quiz.
Article
May 7, 2025
AI Expectations, Soft Skills, and Young Professionals
Author
Cathy Cecere
As generative AI revolutionizes STEM, employers are growing wary of investing in upskilling and devoting precious energy to seemingly endless transformation.
Article
Apr 16, 2025
When it Comes to Engineers, Demand Exceeds Supply
Author
Cathy Cecere
The engineering workforce is aging but also growing slowly and steadily. And while female employee numbers are increasing, there’s still room for a tremendous amount of growth.
Article
Apr 2, 2025
Reciprocity is Key When Mentoring Young Engineers
Author
Robin Flanigan
Valuing generational diversity can make a strong mentorship bond even more valuable. Optimal mentoring relationships embrace the free exchange of ideas.
Article
Mar 19, 2025
Recruiting and Retaining Engineers Has Become an Extreme Sport
Author
Robin Flanigan
With more open positions than those with the skills and experience to do the jobs, finding and keeping skilled professionals remains difficult for those who must recruit and retain engineers.
Article
Mar 5, 2025
Opportunities for Engineers Increase as Wind Energy Grows
Author
Cathy Cecere
Engineers are poised to play a crucial role in building and maintaining a global wind fleet amid the sector’s need to find and recruit more than 530,000 workers over the next four years.
Article
Feb 27, 2025
For Engineers, Is an MBA or MEM Better to Climb the Ladder?
Is an MBA or an MEM better for engineers? Or is a master’s degree even needed to advance in leadership?
Article
Feb 26, 2025
Competitive Market is Good News for Mechanical Engineers
Author
Cathy Cecere
With a competitive engineering market continuing into 2025, engineering optimism is fueled by innovative technologies, meeting climate challenges, and ensuring energy transition.
Article
Feb 19, 2025
Five Steps to Transition from Engineer to Leadership
Mechanical engineer and CEO Dorota Shortell shares her advice on how to transition into a leadership role.
Article
Feb 19, 2025
Manufacturing Blog: Measuring and Job-Sharing Integral to AI Adoption
Author
Cathy Cecere
Cultural and skills challenges hamper organizations from fully embracing artificial intelligence (AI) as executives identify job sharing and performance measurement as immediate AI goals.
Article
Feb 12, 2025
Mechanical Engineering Career Trends for Manufacturing
Author
Cathy Cecere
Mechanical engineering job growth is expected to continue into 2025 as these professionals lean into innovative technologies to advance traditional manufacturing processes as design and production.
Article
Jan 29, 2025
Flexible Hours is Now the Norm for Engineers
Author
Robin Flanigan
Project-driven engineers adapt their work hours to meet demand and critical deadlines. Adding the ability to work remotely allows them to plan and respond even more efficiently.
Article
Jan 15, 2025
Recruit, Retain, and Train Young Professional Engineers
Author
Cathy Cecere
Mechanical engineer, author, speaker, trainer, and Gen Xer Tim Griffin talks about recruiting and retaining young professional engineers, both Millennials and Gen Z.
Article
Jan 9, 2025
Empowering the Next Gen of Women in Power
A program is helping women develop technical expertise and leadership skills for new equitable energy solutions.
Article
Jan 8, 2025
What Engineers Learn Doesn’t Always Match What Employers Need
Author
Cathy Cecere
Accreditors guide faculty that develop curriculums offered by higher education. But employers—who have a stake, but not a voice in the process—often find graduates’ abilities don’t meet expectations.
Infographic
Jan 7, 2025
Infographic: Employment Optimism Fueled by Transition
Author
Cathy Cecere
A competitive engineering market continues, with recruitment fueled by new technologies, meeting climate challenges, and ensuring sustainable energy transition.
Article
Nov 5, 2024
E-Fest Careers 2024: Innovating the Future
Author
Cathy Cecere
E-Fest Careers 2024 hosted thousands of students and offered them learning, engagement, and network opportunities through numerous live and on demand sessions.
Podcast
Oct 21, 2024
Podcast: What Employers Want Engineers to Know
Gabriella Coloyan Fleming and Abdulrahman Alsharif join ASME Techcast to discuss the technical and professional skills students need to move from higher education into their engineering careers.
Article
Aug 28, 2024
Small Credentials Now in High Demand
Author
Robin Flanigan
Microcredentials—short courses that verify competency in a particular area and culminate in the earning of a digital badge—help job candidates gain employment more quickly.
Article
Jul 10, 2024
Fulfilling a Dream: The Late-in-Life Ph.D.
Author
Jerry Guerra
The trend of pursuing a Ph.D. later in life is real. But there are challenges for those students who decide to return to the classroom and pursue an advanced degree.
Article
May 22, 2024
6 Ways Engineers Can Become Better Negotiators
Author
Jerry Guerra
Many engineers struggle, but they possess foundational skills necessary to make good negotiators.
Article
May 1, 2024
Get Noticed by Engineering Employers
Author
Robin Flanigan
Landing a job at an engineering company with a stellar reputation and strong talent pipeline takes a mixture of specialized skills, passion, and personality.
Article
Apr 10, 2024
Engineering Students Quit, But Retention Tactics Abound
Author
Robin Flanigan
About half of those pursuing an engineering major change their field of study or drop out before graduation. And half do so during their first year of college.
Article
Mar 20, 2024
8 Strategies to Win an Industry Award
Author
Robin Flanigan
Award winners share their strategies for submitting and winning industry recognition.
Article
Feb 28, 2024
Picking and Pursuing Online Engineering Graduate Programs
Author
Robin Flanigan
Pick an online engineering graduate program that’s right for you and meets your financial need. But don’t forget to stay connected and disciplined to succeed.
Article
Feb 22, 2024
Black History Month Celebrates Inventors and Engineers
Author
Cathy Cecere
One of the best ways to celebrate Black History Month is learning more about the contributions of Black engineers and inventors—past, present, and future.
Article
Dec 21, 2023
Top 5 Career Articles of 2023
Engineers prioritize choices in education, industry, and more.
Quiz
Nov 10, 2023
Quiz: Mechanical Engineering on YouTube
YouTube offers viewers a wide range of mechanical engineering content, from real-life demonstrations of popular mechanics and processes to college-level courses and test prep.
Article
Mar 3, 2022
What are the Emerging Technologies Today’s Engineers Should Master?
What emerging technologies should mechanical engineers be most familiarized with?
Article
Mar 2, 2022
Three Reasons Why Mechanical Engineers Should Seek Out Applied Learning Experiences
Applied learning combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience and then adds a layer of compliance education surrounding legally enforceable engineering codes.
Article
Mar 1, 2022
The Two Most Important Qualities Every Mid-Career Engineer Needs To Get Ahead
There are two standout qualities that every mid-career engineer needs. Here’s how to develop both so you can get ahead and remain competitive throughout your career.
Article
Feb 24, 2022
5 Ways Engineers Can Make More Money in Today's Market
With thousands of listed engineering jobs and robust career planning tools, here's how you can make more money now.
Article
Feb 24, 2022
Top 10 Most Transferable Job Skills For Engineers
Transferable Skills Are Abilities Or Proficiencies That Are Valued Across Multiple Disciplines & Industries Find Out Top 10 Most Transferable Job Skills For Engineers
Article
Feb 17, 2022
Engineers Are Using Self-Directed Learning to Take Control of Their Careers
New learning experiences help make the complex simpler—they are flexible and convenient, so engineers can receive education where and when they need it.
Article
Feb 11, 2022
How Companies Can Support Continuing Education While Retaining Engineering Talent
One of the best investments you can make is helping your employees upskill through continuing education.
Article
Feb 10, 2022
What’s the Difference Between CEUs and PDHs?
You’ve probably heard professional development hours and continuing education units mentioned at the same time as potential solutions for these problems—but they’re not quite the same thing.
Article
Dec 2, 2019
How to Choose the Right Provider to Educate Your Workforce
Author
Poornima Apte
Consider convenience, current knowledge, and business impacts before making this key decision.
Article
Nov 27, 2019
Engineers Need a New Approach to Learning
Arin Ceglia, ASME’s director of learning and development, offers insight on how modern course design helps engineers keep up in a rapidly shifting field.
Article
Nov 27, 2019
How to Create Value from Learning & Development
What is the business case for investing in continuing education?