Pondering a Career in Procurement: Insights for an Engineering Graduate

As I approach the final stretch of my engineering degree, I find myself at a crossroads concerning my future career. With an impending interview for a prestigious graduate role in government procurement, I’m both excited and uncertain about charting a path in this new direction.

On one hand, the opportunity is undeniably appealing. The role promises structured rotations across various agencies, comprehensive training, and the acquisition of valuable qualifications. It offers the security of a stable career trajectory and the rewarding prospect of contributing to projects with real public impact—opportunities not to be taken lightly.

Yet, a part of me hesitates. My passion lies deeply rooted in technical analysis and problem-solving, inherent aspects of my engineering background. The fear that looms is losing the essence of my “engineering mindset,” potentially replaced by a routine of report writing and box-ticking in procurement. My concern is whether this shift would lead to the gradual atrophy of the technical skills I cherish.

This leads me to seek the wisdom of those who have trodden a similar path. Have any fellow technical graduates transitioned into procurement or similar fields? Did you find your technical skills fading, or did the role offer new avenues to engage them?

As I prepare for this significant interview, any insights or shared experiences would deeply resonate and assist in my decision-making.