Mechanical Engineering vs. Mechanical Engineering Technology:

What Today's Hiring Managers Should Consider

One of the most common hiring discussions I have with manufacturing clients isn't about compensation or benefits—it's about degree requirements.

Many companies begin a search requiring a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (ME). On paper, that seems reasonable. However, after interviewing hundreds of manufacturing professionals over the years, I've observed a consistent trend that hiring managers should consider.

Mechanical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering Technology graduates often pursue different long-term career paths.

That doesn't make one better than the other—it simply means they frequently bring different strengths and career motivations to the table.

The Traditional Mechanical Engineer (ME)

Mechanical Engineering programs are heavily focused on engineering theory, mathematics, analysis, design principles, and research.

These graduates often begin their careers in manufacturing because it provides invaluable hands-on experience with products, processes, and production systems.

However, as their careers progress, many naturally transition into roles such as:

Design Engineering
Product Development
Research & Development
Project Engineering
Engineering Management
Operations Leadership
Executive Leadership

For many MEs, manufacturing serves as an important stepping stone rather than the ultimate career destination.

The Mechanical Engineering Technologist (MET)

Mechanical Engineering Technology programs emphasize the practical application of engineering principles.

Graduates typically spend more time working directly with manufacturing processes, production equipment, fabrication, tooling, quality systems, and continuous improvement.

Many of the most accomplished Manufacturing Engineers I've interviewed over the years hold Mechanical Engineering Technology degrees.

Rather than viewing manufacturing as a temporary assignment, many intentionally build long-term careers focused on:

Manufacturing Engineering
Process Improvement
Production Support
Lean Manufacturing
Continuous Improvement
Plant Operations
Industrial Automation

These professionals often become the technical experts who remain deeply involved in manufacturing throughout their careers.

What I've Observed

After interviewing hundreds of engineers throughout my career, I've noticed an interesting pattern.

Many Mechanical Engineers tell me they eventually want to move into design, project management, leadership, or executive roles.

Many Mechanical Engineering Technologists tell me they enjoy solving manufacturing problems, improving processes, supporting production, and making operations more efficient—and they want to continue doing exactly that.

Of course, there are exceptions. Outstanding Manufacturing Engineers come from both educational backgrounds, and career aspirations are unique to each individual.

But understanding these tendencies can help hiring managers think beyond the degree listed on a résumé.

The Better Hiring Question

Rather than asking:

"Does this candidate have a Mechanical Engineering degree?"

I encourage clients to ask:

"Is this someone who wants to build a long-term career in manufacturing?"

That question often leads to better hiring decisions.

Technical knowledge can be developed.

Long-term career motivation is much harder to change.

The Recruiter's Perspective

One advantage of interviewing candidates every day is hearing how they describe their own careers and aspirations.

I've found that the most successful manufacturing placements aren't always the candidates with the most impressive academic credentials—they're the candidates whose interests, strengths, and long-term goals genuinely align with the work they'll be doing every day.

At Customized Recruiting Solutions, we don't recruit by degree title alone. We evaluate the whole person—their technical capabilities, communication style, motivation, career goals, and cultural fit—because those factors are what ultimately determine long-term success.