★A clear and accessible introduction to engineering for teen and young adult, written by Jim Gifford—nuclear-weapons-effects expert, educator, MIT master’s in chemical engineering, and PhD in nuclear engineering from North Carolina State University!
★Suitable for readers aged 13–18.

This engaging and practical guide is designed for readers aged 13 and up, featuring real-world examples, useful assessments, and a list of top universities to help teenagers choose an engineering discipline that best aligns with their interests and talents.
This book offers middle and high school students a clear and accessible introduction to engineering. It breaks down complex engineering concepts into easy-to-understand language and real‑life applications, making it simple for readers to grasp the various branches of the field. The engineering disciplines covered include:

Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Computer Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Nuclear Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Systems Engineering
Software Engineering

Filled with inspiring stories, practical advice, quizzes to help you identify the engineering path that suits you best, and detailed chapters on college preparation, this book will guide you in exploring your interest in engineering and preparing for your future academic and career journey.

Dr. Jim Gifford
Dr. Jim Gifford is a nuclear engineer and an Army colonel with more than 25 years of service. He currently serves as the Senior Weapons Effects Officer for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, focusing on nuclear weapons and counter–weapons of mass destruction operations since 2013. A combat veteran, Dr. Gifford has held various leadership positions since joining the Field Artillery in 2001.
Dr. Gifford is also an accomplished educator, having taught chemistry and chemical engineering at institutions including the U.S. Army Field Artillery School, West Point, and the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy. He currently teaches high school physics and chemistry on the “G Science PhD” website, an online, self-paced science curriculum platform for home schooling. With many years of experience educating his five children—from high school through college—his eldest son is now pursuing a degree in nuclear engineering.
His academic credentials include a B.S. in Chemistry from West Point, an M.A. from Webster University, an M.S. in Chemical Engineering from MIT, and a Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering from North Carolina State University.