Pursuing Multiple Trades: Is It Feasible for a Mechanical Engineer and Other Professions?

Is it possible to be a mechanical engineer, blacksmith, carpenter, electrician, plumber, mechanic, sculptor, and painter at the same time? The answer is yes, but there are several factors to consider. Let's delve into the challenges and possibilities of engaging in multiple trades.

Skills Development

Mastering each field requires significant time and practice. For instance, a mechanical engineer must understand complex systems, while a painter requires skill in color theory and technique. While you can learn the basics of each, achieving proficiency in all these areas will be challenging. It is essential to allocate sufficient time and effort to each trade to ensure you can meet the required standards.

Time Management

Conducting business in multiple trades can be demanding. Each field has its unique set of demands and may require varying levels of commitment. For example, plumbing or electrical work might demand more time during certain periods for testing and compliance checks. Effective time management is key to balancing these demands. Consider creating a schedule that allows you to allocate specific days or hours to each trade, depending on their urgency and complexity.

Education and Training

Most trades require formal education or specialized training. For instance, becoming an electrician often requires a specific educational program and practical experience. Even if some skills overlap, like the knowledge of electrical systems in carpentry, you may need to invest time in acquiring specialized knowledge for each trade. This can be time-consuming, but the skills you gain can be invaluable in your career.

Licensing and Certification

Certain trades, such as plumbing and electrical work, often require licenses or certifications. These can add complexity to working in multiple fields. You must ensure that you comply with local regulations and obtain any necessary certifications. This not only ensures your safety but also the safety of your clients or customers. Consider hiring a mentor or taking courses to help you navigate the requirements for licensing and certification in each trade.

Interdisciplinary Opportunities

Some skills from one trade can complement others. For example, a mechanical engineer with carpentry skills might design and build custom furniture. Similarly, a painter with knowledge of color theory can enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of a space. Interdisciplinary skills can open up new opportunities in your career and allow you to approach projects from a broader perspective.

Personal Interest and Passion

If you have a strong passion for each area, you might find it fulfilling to engage in multiple disciplines even if you don’t achieve mastery in all. For instance, if you are a passionate painter and enjoy woodworking, you can aim to combine these skills in your projects. Personal interest and passion can drive you to continually improve and innovate in your work.

Additionally, as I share my personal journey, I have engaged in a diverse range of activities. I have worked as an auto mechanic, jeweler, welder, metal fabricator, truck driver, cable TV installer, construction technician, pole climber, tree trimmer, and test engineer. Currently, I am a horticultural laborer at a botanical garden, engaging in gardening, which is a large part of my life. I am also learning hand tool woodworking, sewing, and knitting. My goal is to combine these skills in furniture design, which can be both functional and artistic.

Conclusion

While it is feasible to engage in all these professions, it requires dedication, effective time management, and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt. Consider your personal interests and the skills you excel in. You may be surprised by the opportunities that arise when you bridge multiple trades and professions.

Practical Tips

For those who love woodworking and are struggling to discover detailed plans to build their dream project, I recommend you check out this tutorial. They share a comprehensive list of 16,000 projects with step-by-step plans. Each project is detailed enough to leave nothing to guesswork yet simple enough for beginners. Each project includes step-by-step instructions, cutting and material lists, detailed schematics, and views from all angles.

Also, consider exploring other resources to enhance your skills and knowledge. For instance, I am currently reading a book about the biology of humans and the resulting behavior that comes from being an evolved animal. Additionally, you can check out Robert Sapolsky’s Stanford professor lectures on YouTube, which provide valuable insights into the human brain and behavior. Another book I recommend is Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman, which delves into cognitive biases and decision-making processes.