Special Report: Dream Jobs 2011

If the words "true bliss" along with "job market" evoke snorts of derision, you need to meet these 10 odds-defying technologists. Learn how you, too, can become the envy of your peers

Engineers, are you ready to shake things up? We know that the economy lately has been, well, unforgiving. But we still believe that you can—and should—find jobs you adore. This year, we met 10 engineers whose abrupt turns and occasional missteps led them to question their deepest desires, right the course, and find the jobs that are best for them. We quizzed hiring managers at top companies to learn what they seek. We also caught up with engineers we've featured in the past to see how dreams may change. Aim high, dear readers, and above all, have fun.

DREAM JOBS 2011 list of articles:


		Loredana Bessone At the European Space Agency, Loredana Bessone prepares explorers for the rigors of space

		Ricky Langer Ricky Langer has landed in the envy-inducing vortex of his passions: ESPN's tech team

		Gus Lott Gus Lott designs virtual reality systems for bugs and rats so that we can study their brains—and ours

		John Q. Walker John Q. Walker brings back the sounds of musical greats

		Jordin Kare LaserMotive's Jordin Kare aims to propel rockets and helicopters with light

		Lucie Pautet As the lead engineer for NEPTUNE Canada, Lucie Pautet manages a seafloor sensor network

		Hsin-Chien Huang How an engineer became one of Taiwan's best-known artists

		Jaap Duiser Jaap Duiser is the engineer behind 2getthere's personal rapid transit system in Masdar, the Middle East's budding eco-city

		Amir Abo-Shaeer Aided by robots, Amir Abo-Shaeer cultivates the next generation's engineers

		Mark Sagar Academy Award-winner Mark Sagar makes virtual visages that smile, scowl, and shimmer

		Help Wanted What technology recruiters are looking for

		Where Are They Now? Four technologists check in