Are you an innovator and prefer a flexible but stable career where you can help people and make the world a better place? If so, then you should consider a career in Electronic Engineering. Working as an electronic engineer is a lucrative career. There has long been a demand for electronic engineers worldwide, and many companies are struggling to fill these roles.
So, if you’re interested, here’s how to start a career in electronic engineering.
- Take a Degree in Electrical Engineering
Most employers prefer to hire entry-level electrical engineers with a Bachelor-level electrical engineering degree. Therefore, the first step to starting a career in Electronic Engineering is to take a degree in Electrical Engineering. The coursework of a bachelor’s degree Program in Electrical Engineering includes digital systems design, differential equations, and electrical circuit theory. Aside from classroom work, electrical engineering majors can participate in field studies and laboratory work.
Some of the subfields in Electrical Engineering include Energy Engineering, Lighting Design, Smart Electrical Networks and Systems, etc. The courses are interdisciplinary, focusing on principles from Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Electronics, Electromagnetism, and the fundamental Electrical and Electronic Engineering concepts.
Students can learn how electronics work, how to fix them, and how to take the devices and systems apart. The Electrical Engineering Courses can also focus on advancing communication systems, and current gadgets, creating safer and more efficient electronic devices, and using new electronic technologies to improve tools people use daily. At the end of the course, students will be familiar with concepts relating to electromagnetism, semiconductors, and circuitry. Students can also combine a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in a 5-year study program.
- Get Extra Training from The Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEEE)
The world’s largest professional tech organisation is the Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEEE). It works towards advancing technology through electronics. One of the best ways to start a career as an Electronic Engineer is to get extra training from the IEEE, opening you up to more opportunities in the field.
IEEE offers various education and training opportunities through workshops, webinars, self-guided tutorials, and other resources. These materials aim to prepare electronic engineers for their roles by teaching them about the IEEE’s primary functions and technical activities. You can also sign up for the volunteer services offered by IEEE.
There are two types of training that you can avail from IEEE. One is the Professional Development Training, and the other is Training for Volunteers. The Professional Development Training consists of several modules focusing on professional development. It will cover soft skills like communications, leadership, management, etc. The training can be beneficial in helping you jumpstart your career in Electronic Engineering.
Meanwhile, those who want to be volunteers can undergo the IEEE volunteer training, consisting of Quick Start training modules that provide participants with practical knowledge about volunteer positions, allowing them to carry out their duties and responsibilities as a volunteer.
- Gain Experience in Electrical Engineering
Some companies prefer to hire electronic engineers with experience in the field. Besides, you must have at least four years of relevant experience to receive a Professional Engineering licence. Therefore, you should consider gaining experience to start a career in electronic engineering.
The best way to acquire essential practical experience in the industry is to search for opportunities in electronic engineering to get an internship. Some aspiring electrical engineers can join a cooperative program while earning their undergraduate degrees. After accomplishing the practical and educational requirements, you can seek an entry-level electrical engineering position.
An entry-level role in the electrical engineering position requires you to perform tasks like designing, testing, building, and repairing electronics. You may also need various tools and equipment to get things done. Many companies hire entry-level electrical engineers as apprenticeships or training, where a senior electrical engineer will supervise you until you gain additional experience to prepare you for the more advanced roles.
Entry-level electrical engineers also help prepare complex calculations, measure power flow and impact, establish design reports, prepare material specifications, and review completed work to ensure it follows safety and system standards.
- Try an Apprenticeship in Electrical Engineering
Apprenticeships and internships are some of the best ways aspiring electrical engineers can gain experience in the field. Through these programs, they can acquire hands-on experience and have the opportunity to work with industry professionals. Some internships can open you up to opportunities for a full-time job.
Typically, interns and apprentices are required to work on projects under the supervision of experienced engineers. These projects include testing products, designing prototypes, installing or troubleshooting electronic systems, and programming electrical devices.
Apprenticeships can include hands-on experience along with formal studies. You can learn many things from the program, including areas of specialisation such as systems engineering. Once your apprenticeship ends, you can continue working or get a promotion depending on your performance.
- Take a College Course in Electrical Engineering
Electronic Engineering is a challenging but rewarding career, requiring time, effort, and commitment to learn the subject matter. Since electrical engineering is very technical, those interested in pursuing a career in this field must have access to high-quality training and learn how to apply their knowledge to real-world situations. A college course in Electrical Engineering can help prepare aspiring engineers for the challenges of becoming an electrical engineer by providing them with various resources, including lectures, laboratory work, project collaboration, and mentorship from industry professionals.
One of the examples of college courses is the Higher National Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. It’s one of the most sought-after engineering courses, giving students a solid foundation in various areas essential to their field. It also offers them relevant knowledge and skills they can use throughout their careers through theoretical knowledge and practical applications.
Students taking this college course can expect to learn about electrical engineering components, such as electronic circuits, communication systems, microprocessors and digital electronics, and electromagnetic fields and waves.
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