Electrical Engineering

E lectrical engineering is very broad field and its use is integrated into almost every industry. Electrical engineers design, develop, test and manage the manufacturing of electrical equipment such as electric power generation and distribution and is used in things such as electric cars, GPS devices, to pacemakers and smartphones.

What is Electrical Engineering and what do they do?

Electrical engineers typically:

• Design new ways to use electrical power to develop or improve products
• Perform detailed calculations to develop manufacturing, construction, and installation standards and specifications
• Direct the manufacturing, installation and testing of electrical equipment
• Manage the production of electrical projects to ensure work is completed well, on time and within budget

An electrical engineer’s job description entails a lot of variety including working with a customer to understand the requirements of the project, designing the product and working with manufacturing to ensure it is made according to the specifications and budget.

What Education do you need to become an Electrical Engineer

High School students should take math courses including algebra, trigonometry, and calculus as well as physics if they are interest in studying electrical or electronics engineering. Courses in drafting are also helpful.

To enter this career field, you will need a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, electrical engineering technology, or a related engineering field. Typical coursework in electrical engineering includes physics, electric circuits, design fundamentals, digital systems and communications.

When choosing an engineering school, their electrical engineering, electronics engineering, or electrical engineering technology programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology Inc. (ABET)

What Qualities does an Electrical Engineer Need?

• Math Skills
• Ability to concentrate when developing complex systems
• Interpersonal skills
• Verbal communication skills
• Written communication skills
• Able to take the Initiative

* Source:  United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics September 8, 2022