Kyle Vandermolen explained that chemical engineering is a field that involves the application of principles from chemistry, physics, and mathematics to design and operate chemical processes that produce materials and products essential to our daily lives. Chemical engineers work in various industries like petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, energy, etc. If you want to become a chemical engineer, here are some things you need to know.

The first step to becoming a chemical engineer is obtaining a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related field. This degree typically takes four years to complete and covers thermodynamics, process design, chemical kinetics, and transport phenomena. Some programs may also require students to take biology, materials science, and environmental engineering courses.

After completing their undergraduate degree, some chemical engineers pursue a graduate degree in chemical engineering or a related field. This can help them specialize in a specific area of interest in the field and make them more competitive in the job market.
Skills

To succeed as a chemical engineer, you need strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically. You should also have excellent communication skills and work well in a team environment. Attention to detail is crucial, as even minor errors in chemical processes can have significant consequences.

In addition to these basic skills, chemical engineers must possess specialized technical skills such as computer-aided design (CAD) software and chemical process simulation tools like Aspen Plus or HYSYS.

Many entry-level chemical engineering positions require experience through internships or co-op programs during your undergraduate studies. These experiences provide valuable hands-on training and help you develop practical skills that are difficult to learn in the classroom.

Networking is essential to any job search, and chemical engineering is no exception. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and participating in online communities can help you meet other professionals in the field and learn about new job opportunities.

In some states, chemical engineers must obtain a Professional Engineer (PE) license to practice. This involves passing an exam that tests your knowledge of the principles and practices of engineering. Obtaining a PE license demonstrates your competency as an engineer and can help you advance in your career.

Chemical engineers work in many industries, including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and oil and gas. Standard job titles for chemical engineers include process, project, research, and production engineer.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for chemical engineers was $108,770 as of May 2020. The highest-paying industries for chemical engineers include oil and gas extraction, scientific research and development services, and management of companies and enterprises.

A chemical engineer requires a solid educational background, specialized technical skills, practical experience, networking, and potentially obtaining a professional license. It's a challenging but rewarding field that offers many exciting career opportunities. If you're interested in pursuing a career in chemical engineering, start by researching undergraduate programs and internships. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goal of becoming a chemical engineer and positively impacting society.