<p>I was wondering if anyone could comment on how hard it is to get a managing position in these engineering fields in particular:</p>
<p>Electrical
Chemical
Mechanical (esp in automotive industry)</p>
<p>Also, although I've asked this Q many times, I'm still wondering how much money one can expect to make as a manager in the above fields. I know that it varies depending on size, cost of living, etc., but how much would an above average person like me (I do above average as in 3.8 GPA in hardest classes, 1400 CR+Math SAT) expect to make should they go into this field.</p>
<p>From what I've seen at work, it takes time for a new college hire to become a manager at a large company. The very technical people from top engineering schools tend to choose to become technical leads and not managers, although managers generally do make more than technical leads. In order to get a managment position, you need to show that you have good communications and leadership skills. I think half of the weight is put on how you present yourself and the other half is your technical expertise. Management is not for everyone, and you probably won't know for sure until you start working. The salary varies depending on the level of management, from 80-90K to 6 or even 7 figure salaries.</p>
<p>GPA and SAT scores tell nothing about how good a manager you will be.
Taking leadership roles in a volunteer organization, however, might. Since it reflects how well you can motivate people to do stuffs without the incentive of money.</p>