Lyle -
As I work in a department of Materials Science and Chemical
Engineering, we see faculty, post-docs, and graduate students
from all kinds of degree programs:
Materials
Physics
Chemistry
Polymers
Mechanical
Manufacturing
Textiles
Chemical Engineering
etc....
For our students undergraduate students who go out
into industry for jobs in materials, I emphasize they
familiarize themselves with the resources available at
ASM as well as ASTM. Too many academic programs
emphasize only "text book" learning, exams, etc....
This leads to the rude awakening for recent graduates
when they have little idea of what the workplace demands.
So, my first suggestion is always to become a member of the
relevant professional society. Find out what are the titles
and topics of their authoritative handbooks. If you find one
that is appropriate, then get it on "interlibrary loan". If you
feel like it is a keeper, then buy a copy. Better yet, have
your company buy the copy. Next, network with the local
chapter. These days, you can do many remote meetings,
and network at a distance. Also, watch/attend many of
the excellent webinars. Most are archived and watchable
during non-work hours. Much of this might lead you to
the society's professional training classes, to address
more immediate needs for professional development.
Definitely pay attention to the most relevant ASTM
standards. Why reinvent the wheel.....
You spent tens-of-thousands of dollars on your
undergraduate education, some of it with little return.
Every engineer can afford can afford to spend a
few hundred each year on continuing education and
professional development. You just have to find the time....
kind regards,
- Jim