Chemical engineering involves applying chemistry to solve practical problems and design and operate machines that perform chemical reactions. Chemical engineers use math, physics, and economics to solve technical problems related to converting raw materials like crude oil into useful products through chemical processes. They work in various industries like oil refining, water treatment, pharmaceuticals, plastics, food processing, and more. To be a good chemical engineer requires strong skills in math, computer programs, economics, safety practices, and the ability to design and control chemical processes. The core areas of study in chemical engineering include thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, materials and energy balances, and reactor and equipment design.