Q I graduated from the National University of Singapore with a major in chemistry and a minor in materials science and engineering.

I now hold a job in steel product manufacturing.

The next job I hope to venture into would preferably be linked to cement/concrete manufacturing.

Ultimately, I hope to be well-rounded in all kinds of materials and land a job in the architectural field as a material engineer/consultant dealing with tasks such as the evaluation and design of building materials.

Is it necessary for one to possess a degree in civil engineering in order to become an engineer in the architectural field?

Would my current degree and relevant job experience be enough, or do I need to obtain further qualifications such as registering with the Professional Engineer Board?

A Your interest in material engineering does not require you to obtain a civil engineering degree in order to further your interest in the architectural field.

Registration with the Professional Engineer Board might widen your contact with other engineers and help you develop your career in that field.

As the world is presented with new materials that can be used in building construction, material engineers are constantly studying how these can be used on a large scale.

These materials have to be extensively tested and proven to meet or exceed regulatory demands in safety, environment and health.

The push into environmentally friendly buildings has also created new research areas for material engineers.

In the area of innovation, there is no set career progression path.

It is really driven by passion, curiosity and creativity.

John Dave Ng
Team Leader
PeopleSearch

This article was first published in The Straits Times.