Reflections on Career Transition: From Biomedical Engineering to Technical Writing

During an interview, a key question was posed to me: “Why did you choose to pursue Biomedical Engineering after obtaining a degree in Electrical Engineering?” This query sparked a narrative that delves into my journey of how a deep-rooted interest in the application of electrical engineering in medical contexts led me to a surprising career shift.

Why Biomedical Engineering?

The dialogue began with a simple question by the interviewer: “Imagine no power supply, could a hospital run?” Naively, my immediate response was: “No.” The interviewer, amused, countered by suggesting that my pursuit of Biomedical Engineering was geared towards running generators in hospitals. However, my response was more profound than that. I explained, “Have you ever seen an ECG? Those are electrical pulses, and the device which captures it is entirely electronic. Have you seen an X-ray machine in a hospital? Most of those machines need high voltage in the KVs. Have you seen an Endoscopy room? It is filled with electrical and electronic instruments. Biomedical Engineering brings together the application of electrical engineering with human physiology.”

The Shift to Technical Writing

Following my studies in Biomedical Engineering, I found myself at a juncture where my interests veered towards a different path. I expressed my desire to work as a Technical Writer for a software product company, a shift that seemed somewhat abrupt to my interviewer. My response was clear and articulate: “I have a strong aptitude for engineering and mathematics. I can understand complex things in a streamlined manner. My entire education was spent solving real-life problems using mathematical models and simplification. Hence, my belief in simplifying things aligns perfectly with the role of a Technical Writer.”

Reflections on the Shift

The transition from engineering to management consulting was a gradual but transformative process. Initially, I worked as a System Analyst Engineer for two large industrial companies. Over time, I became disillusioned with the traditional engineering role, feeling that it did not align with my interests and strengths. My aptitude tests highlighted my strengths in business and accounting, leading me to explore new career paths.

The Bias Against Engineering

I lacked the innate aptitude for engineering, which was evident from an aptitude test taken during my freshman year. The test revealed little strength in science, engineering, or applied mathematics, highlighting significant strengths in business and accounting. While I did not immediately pursue a career in business, this lack of aptitude played into my decision to eventually shift to management consulting.

Exploring Management Consulting

My shift to management consulting was a gradual and phased change. Exposure to consulting during a quasi-healthcare project at a General Electric affiliate opened my eyes to the possibilities within the field. I found immense satisfaction in advising and helping organizations and individuals. I embarked on an intensive resume campaign, sending out 150 resumes over a nine-month period and securing 15 interviews, which eventually led to a job offer with a small consulting firm serving mainly state government agencies.

Why Consulting?

My decision to enter and remain in management consulting was driven by several factors:

It aligned well with my interests and strengths, including analysis, writing, organization, presentation, and business. It offered the opportunity to advise and help organizations and people directly, providing a sense of purpose and social impact. It provided opportunities to work with various sizes of consulting firms, allowing for growth and development. It offered a prestigious position and good income. It provided a better match for my capabilities, matching aptitudes, and personality. It offered flexibility and a clear path for long-term career growth.

Conclusion

My career journey from studying Biomedical Engineering to becoming a Technical Writer for a software product company is a testament to how interests, aptitudes, and personal passions can guide career choices. Each step along the way, whether in engineering, consulting, or technical writing, has provided unique insights and learning experiences, ultimately leading to a fulfilling career path.