ME student interested in ventilators/medical electromechanical systems — career advice?
Hi everyone,
I’m a mechanical engineering student graduating next May and currently doing a co-op at a major medical device company. Long-term, I’m really interested in electromechanical medical devices, especially critical care systems like ICU ventilators, respiratory devices, or other complex regulated systems.
I’m curious about the experience of engineers working in ventilators, respiratory care, or electromechanical medical devices. As a mechanical engineer, what kinds of roles do you find yourselves in? (R&D, systems, testing/verification, controls, manufacturing, reliability, etc.)
What does the day-to-day actually look like, and what technical skills are most valuable? For example, how much of the work ends up being CAD/design versus systems integration, fluid dynamics, sensors, controls, testing, or regulatory work?
I’m also wondering what seems to be most in demand in the market right now for someone with an ME background trying to break into this space. Are there skills or areas you wish you had focused on earlier?
Would really appreciate hearing about your experiences. Thanks in advance!