What skills do you need to work in robotics? Which subjects should you study? It's a popular question among aspiring engineers and we can understand why. Robotics is the future and it involves so much more than just "building robots". In this post, we look at the various different paths you can take towards a career in robotics, as well as the interdisciplinary skillset developed by robotics engineers.
Robotics engineers are learners.
Robotics engineers are masters-of-all-trades.
Robotics engineers know a little bit about everything (at least, everything important to robotics).
They are the bridge between mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science and even psychology.
To be a robotics engineer, you have to be great at learning and there are many reasons why robotics is a great choice for young engineers.
Core Subjects
Let's start by taking a look at the high school level of study.
What is good advice for someone who's interested in robotics and needs to pick their high school subjects?
At the most basic level there are some core subjects which you need to get started in robotics:
Mathematics - This is a must. You don't have to be John Nash, but a good grasp of algebra and geometry are essential to all of the subjects which make up robotics. Physics (or another science) - Having a solid understanding of science is important for all branches of engineering. Physics is particularly useful because it gives grounding knowledge in energy, electrical circuits, mechanics, material science and other key topics for robotics. However, all sciences are useful as they teach how to apply mathematics to real world problems.