If a child is asked about his future plans, it is pilot, fireman, policeman to soccer player. But perhaps some do think of the profession of inventor, a profession highly romanticized in the modern world.
When a child is asked about their future plans and what they want to be, the answer is usually the same. Pilot, fireman, policeman, princess, nurse, doctor, singer or soccer player. They are among young children's favorite professions. The answer is unlikely to be: “I want to be a Patent Attorney Dad (or Mom)!” But perhaps some do think of the profession of inventor, a profession that is highly romanticized in the modern world.
Road to patent attorney
Technical university degree (minimum bachelor's degree), passing the EQE exam (4 parts), internship at a recognized patent agency, registration with the European Patent Office. The process usually takes a total of 5-7 years after completing your technical studies.
Admittedly, our profession is not always the sexiest job in the world when you think about it. Still, it can be very attractive to people who want to push their boundaries. Who want to explore their possibilities, rather than stick to what they already know.
So much for personal characteristics. But what about the dry stuff? It requires at least a college-level education in a technical or chemical field. That's hurdle number one. After that, some work experience in industry is essential to understand how companies work. And then? That's usually where it ends for most people. But a few of them take another turn on the career highway. Sometimes by chance. Often by faith in their own abilities.
So a little luck or coincidence is part of it, as in any profession. After this, the real hard work begins. First, postgraduate study with an unfair (read: low) chance of success, even for the very bright ones. So an attitude of never giving up is also very welcome. But at the finish line (enrollment in the official register) the reward is finally here.
Which job combines technical, legal, and language skills? A job where you can stand up for the rights of an inventor and where you protect inventions. There is only one answer. So, dear reader, at first glance it may not seem like the dream job, but its beauty is only gradually revealed, like a small bud turning into a beautiful flower.
Are you an independent patent attorney? Would you like to learn more about the benefits of the cooperative patent office Custos IPC, check our member page. Not yet registered as an independent patent attorney, but considering the step to entrepreneurship? Even then it is advisable to study the membership page.
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