The world of science is full of many possibilities and opportunities. Many dreams of becoming a medical doctor, nurse, vet, or even a computer scientist; but there are some hidden specialties out there that might be of interest.
Amusement parks are full of greasy food, fun games, and thrilling rides. The twisting rides don't just come from nowhere: they are designed by an engineer who specializes in roller coasters: Roller Coaster Engineers. These engineers must design rides to be safe and accessible to people with disabilities while still being loads of fun, which requires them to be creative problem-solvers. Many Roller Coaster Engineers start their careers by studying mechanical, electrical, or structural engineering, which applies scientific and mathematical ideas and theories to the real world.
Engineers must be able to work and communicate well with others, for they often need to work in teams to design and ensure the safety of the rides. They must also have some creativity and understanding of what makes the fun and thrill of an attraction because they themselves won't be able to ride until after the attraction is completed.
However, that doesn't automatically make one a Roller Coaster Engineer. Once a degree in engineering is obtained then a professional engineering license, or P.E for short must be acquired. The P.E requires 4 years of working engineering experience, not necessarily roller coaster design experience, and then passes a final test. Being knowledgeable in multiple disciplines of engineering would also be beneficial because the number of people on the design team is directly related to the budget. Therefore, one person might have to do the role of both a mechanical and electrical engineer.
About the Author
Emily Williams loves physical science and music. She is a section leader in the marching band, and one of her favorite classes in high school has been astronomy.
Sources
English, T. (2019, December 21). How to Become a Roller Coaster Engineer. Retrieved from https://interestingengineering.com/culture/which-engineering-degree-do-you-need-to-design-roller-coasters
Mordechai, R. (2021, June 1). My Cool Job: Roller Coaster Engineer. Time for Kids. Retrieved from https://www.timeforkids.com/g56/cool-job-roller-coaster-engineer-2/
What is Engineering? (Definition and Types). TWI. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/faqs/what-is-engineering
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