This book presents information on career opportunities in mechanical engineering. Chapter 1 describes the historical development of mechanical engineering and its interactions with society, considers the growth of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and discusses the relevance of mechanical engineering to present-day and future society. Chapter 2 covers the spectrum of careers available including research, consulting, teaching, development, design, production, sales, law, the military, and politics. Personal requirements are presented in the form of a checklist of skills and interests in chapter 3. The amount of educational background needed for employment at various levels (technician, professional), and several interdisciplinary combinations including engineering/Master of Business Administration and engineering/Law are described in chapter 4. In chapter 5, the college selection process, work-study programs, and part-time jobs are discussed. Chapter 6 assesses opportunities for women, including a comparison of pay. A report, "Minorities in Engineering," by the Planning Commission for Expanding Minorities Opportunities, is the topic of chapter 7. The process of industrial recruitment of graduating seniors is discussed step-by-step in chapter 8. Demand for engineering and salaries of beginning graduates are also considered. Chapter 9 analyzes career development/advancement and lists professional mechanical engineering societies. An appendix lists schools offering accredited undergraduate curricula. (JM)