Studying engineering is an exciting yet challenging experience. To succeed in this field, students need an open mind, analytical skills, and a deep understanding. Simply studying the coursebooks material is not enough. Exploring the subject further, familiarizing oneself with new approaches and ideas, and understanding their practical applications is crucial for any engineer.
If you are considering summer courses, such as Oxford Summer Courses, to enhance your knowledge, this reading list will be particularly useful.
The list below features books that every aspiring engineer should read. These books will add depth to your engineering knowledge and understanding.
Structures – or Why Things Don’t Fall Down by J.E. Gordon
This book is a classic read for engineering enthusiasts worldwide. It is simple and accessible, making it ideal for beginners.
Key topics:
- Basic structures and principles of engineering.
- It dispels common myths and misconceptions about engineering.
Why it matters:
- Explains how structures work in simple terms.
- Helps beginners understand real-world engineering.
The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman
Design is not just about solving problems; it’s a continuous process of adaptation and improvement to suit a constantly changing world.
Key topics:
- Product design as a communication tool between the user and the object.
- Practical tips and understanding of design practices.
Why it matters:
- This book introduces students to the concept of user-centered and effective design.
- Useful for any engineering student, especially those interested in design and practical applications.
Sustainable Materials – With Both Eyes Open by Julian Allwood & Jonathan Cullen
Material selection is crucial in engineering design, and sustainability has become essential given today’s environmental challenges.
Key topics:
- The contribution of the steel and aluminum industries to global emissions.
- Sustainable engineering practices and environmental impact. Importance:
- This book teaches students how to balance engineering and environmental protection.
- It provides interdisciplinary knowledge and inspiration not only for engineers, but for any student.
The Gecko’s Foot: How Scientists are Taking a Leaf from Nature’s Book by Peter Forbes
Nature already contains solutions. This book shows how engineering problems can be solved by drawing inspiration from natural structures.
Key topics:
- Study of biological structures and innovations.
- Example: The gecko’s foot and its adhesive properties.
Importance:
- This book teaches students that new solutions can be found by drawing inspiration from nature.
- Enhances understanding of biomimicry.
Engineer to Win by Caroll Smith
Caroll Smith is a renowned Formula 1 racer. This book focuses on performance, mindset, and skills.
Key topics:
- Commitment to high performance and excellence.
- The mindset and approach necessary for an engineering career.
Importance:
- This book is particularly useful for students of mechanical, aerospace, and materials engineering.
- Explains the importance of hard work, planning, and strategy for success.
An Astronaut’s Guide to Life by Chris Hadfield
Chris Hadfield, an astronaut and former commander of the International Space Station, shares his perspective on life and career in this book.
Key topics:
- Life, love, commitment, and perseverance.
- Making space science accessible to the general public.
Importance:
- This book teaches engineering students perseverance, discipline, and a positive outlook on life.
- Provides an inspiring and comprehensive approach to a career.
Success Through Failure: The Paradox of Design by Henry Petroski
In engineering, learning from failure is the path to success.
Key topics:
- Design problems and their solutions.
- The pitfalls of replicating past successes.
Importance:
- This book teaches students the importance of creative thinking and problem-solving.
- Develops a mindset for tackling challenging problems. 8. How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big by Scott Adams
Scott Adams wrote this book to share strategies for achieving success despite failures.
Key topics:
- Learning from failures in personal and professional life.
- Developing the right mindset and resilience.
Importance:
- This book teaches students patience and adaptability in life and in the field of engineering.
- It provides tips on transforming failures into positive experiences.
Bonus: How Do Wings Work? by Holger Babinsky
This paper is written for students of fluid mechanics and physics.
Key topics:
- The physics of wings and flight.
- Important questions and concepts in engineering education.
Importance:
- It provides students with a deeper understanding of undergraduate-level fluid mechanics.
- Presents a practical and technical approach based on research from the University of Cambridge.
Conclusion
There are no limits to knowledge in the world of engineering. By reading these books and resources, you can improve not only your technical skills but also your creative thinking, problem-solving abilities, and career perspective.
If you participate in the Engineering Summer School at Oxford Scholastica Academy, you will further explore these concepts and principles…You will have the opportunity to understand these concepts practically.
Remember, engineering isn’t just about problem-solving; it’s a blend of knowledge, creativity, and innovation. The right books and study resources will make your learning journey easier and more effective.