High School

High school students should develop their chemistry, math, biology, and ecology skills. Since this type of work also involves understanding how businesses work and government regulations, take some general business and government electives. English and speech classes will help you develop your communication skills, which youll use frequently to write reports and interact with colleagues.

Postsecondary Training

You will need at least a bachelors degree in civil, environmental, or chemical engineering to break into this field. Advancement, specialization, or jobs in research may require a masters degree or Ph.D. Besides the regular environmental or chemical engineering curricula at the college level, future air quality engineers might engage in some mechanical or civil engineering if they are interested in product development. Modelers and planners should have a good knowledge of computer systems. Supporting coursework in biology, toxicology, or meteorology can give the job seeker an edge for certain specialized positions even before gaining experience in the workforce. Participation in at least one internship during college will be useful.

Other Education or Training

Many professional engineering associations provide continuing education opportunities to air quality engineers. For example, the Air and Waste Management Association offers seminars and workshops on the Clean Air Act, air quality measurement methods and technology, and the air quality and greenhouse gas implications of shale gas development and use. Contact the association for more information.

Certification or Licensing

Certification is voluntary and may be obtained through such organizations as the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists, the Board for Global EHS Credentialing, and the Academy of Board-Certified Environmental Professionals.

All engineers who do work that affects public health, safety, or property must register with the state. Engineers must have a degree from an accredited engineering program to obtain registration. Right before they get their degree (or soon after), they must pass an engineer-in-training (EIT) exam covering science and engineering fundamentals. A few years into their careers, engineers also must pass an exam covering engineering practice. The National Council of Examiners offers the exams for Engineering and Surveying (https://www.ncees.org).

Aspiring air quality engineers should participate in at least one internship during college to gain valuable experience and allow them to make industry contacts, which could lead to a job offer after graduation.

Prospective air quality engineers should be puzzle solvers. Successful air quality management requires the ability to work with intangibles. As in most fields, communication skills are vital. Engineers must be able to communicate their ideas and findings, both orally and in writing, to various people with different levels of technical understanding.