What Makes a Good Chemical Engineer?

Are you thinking of becoming a chemical engineer? If so, you’re going to need several important skills.

The skillset of a good engineer and a regular engineer differs massively. Good chemical engineers are well-versed in numerous skills, balanced across the board, critical, and able to work on complex problems.

In this blog post, we highlight several key skills of a good chemical engineer, beginning with problem-solving.

Problem-solving skills

Firstly, a good chemical engineer requires top-notch problem-solving skills.

The problems an engineer face varies. However, these issues may be related to machinery, health and safety, environmental protection, manufacturing, or other problems. 

A good problem-solver is often a great listener, focuses on the solution, and reverses the problem. 

Contrary to popular belief, problem-solving skills are developed over time. So, don’t neglect this essential skill!

Honesty makes a good chemical engineer

Next up, we have honesty. That’s right, as cringey and textbook as it may sound, honesty is a crucial skill for any chemical engineer.

Why?

If an engineer is not honest and does not take responsibility for their mistakes, then further problems may arise in the future.

These problems could be severe, not only costing money and other resources to fix, but potentially damaging the environment, and perhaps endangering lives.

So, for now, let’s stick with the true and tested saying: “honesty is the best policy.”

Analytical skills

Analytical skills are similar to problem-solving skills. However, analytical skills focus on asking the right questions to find answers that work.

Often, this involves picking apart designs, being immensely critical and honest, and being willing to try various solutions to find the answer. 

Creativity 

Chemical engineers are required to apply traditional engineering principles in new ways. 

Why? To advance current technology, biotech, medicine, and various other products. You’ve got to have out-of-the-box thinking, be willing to work with others to find new solutions, and always be exploring.

To conclude

The difference between a good engineer and a regular one is their skill set. A good engineer is more diverse and balanced in their skills, open to trying new ideas, and always thinking of ways to move forward.

If you’re thinking of becoming a chemical engineer, focus on the skills highlighted in this article – it’s a great place to start.

Want to find out more about the role of a chemical engineer? You can check out our article on what a chemical engineer does.