What language(s) would be best to learn for an engineer looking to work internationally?

Question

Just curious, and really interested in working abroad after completing my degree (which still won't be for a while, so I have plenty of time to learn a new language).

Thanks. :)

Answer 1

English is the language most used as a second language world-wide; it is the language of the academic elite.

However, Mandarin Chinese, as the most spoken language in the world as a first language would not hurt you, but truly German would be really beneficial, as so many engineers are indeed, German.

Knowing English, however, you should be all right.

Answer 2

Consider your ideal workplace carefully, although German does come to mind considering your background in engineering.

Answer 3

You can learn Chinese. As China increasingly is seen as a growing business power, interest in learning the Chinese language had rocketed, more and more people begin to learn Chinese, because here is clear career potential for the future. High school is the good period for learning Chinese, so begin as soon as you can. Check this site http://www.hellomandarin.com/ it may help you learn Chinese easier and faster.

Answer 4

I would say in any job that involves international clients the tops languages to know are:

English

Spanish

French

Hindi

German

Mandrin Chinese

Also it is interesting to note that both India and France have some of THE best engineering universities in the world. But these languages cover ALL of continents...Africa (French, Spanish, English, German), Latin American (Spanish, French, English), etc... but also keep in mind it doesnt matter if you know French or Farsi, just knowing another language makes you REALLY valuable!