2 answers
Ashly
Student
Tucson, Arizona
2
Questions
Updated
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What are the pros and cons to becoming a hardware or software computer engineer and how do you figure out which one fits you?
I want to go into computer engineering. I know general differences between hardware and software but I would like to hear from people who work on both. Is one easier than the other? Is one more active than the other? How did you decide which you wanted to focus on? Thanks for the help.
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2 answers
R. Aquiles
Electrical I&E
7
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
R.’s Answer
Hi Ashly,
Software Development is going through a firing frenzy right now because of AI. Junior Devs are not being hired nearly as much. I haven't heard anything about the future of that side of the business but it is not looking spectacular at the moment.
Computer Engineering is different from software development in that you learn how to write programs for microchips. These are used in everything, from printers to refrigerators. It is just a different animal, though you know some of the same things.
The other portion of it is that because robotics are coming soon, computer engineering should be one of those fields where there may be more opportunity in.
Software Development is going through a firing frenzy right now because of AI. Junior Devs are not being hired nearly as much. I haven't heard anything about the future of that side of the business but it is not looking spectacular at the moment.
Computer Engineering is different from software development in that you learn how to write programs for microchips. These are used in everything, from printers to refrigerators. It is just a different animal, though you know some of the same things.
The other portion of it is that because robotics are coming soon, computer engineering should be one of those fields where there may be more opportunity in.
Arpit Jain
Senior Manager, Engineering
6
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Arpit’s Answer
Hello Ashly, that's an excellent query! Let me share my perspective.
From my standpoint, the most effective method to identify your ideal field is to delve into both and discover what truly captivates you. Consider enrolling in beginner's courses for both hardware and software engineering, or seek out opportunities to participate in projects spanning both domains.
Here are a few introspective questions that might help you gain more insight:
1) Do you derive pleasure from hands-on activities, or are you more inclined towards abstract thinking?
If the idea of constructing and fiddling with gadgets excites you, hardware engineering could be your calling. On the other hand, if you enjoy dealing with code and algorithms, software engineering might be your cup of tea.
2) Do you possess patience and a keen eye for detail?
Hardware engineering demands a high degree of accuracy and meticulousness. Software engineering too calls for a detail-oriented approach, but it tends to be a tad more lenient with errors.
In the end, the most reliable way to determine the right field for you is to experience both and identify what brings you joy. Don't hesitate to experiment and venture into diverse facets of computer engineering. With perseverance and commitment, you're bound to excel in either domain.
On a personal note, I initially embarked on my journey as a hardware engineer for a brief period, working on IP-based PBX in the telecom sector. I then transitioned to software engineering, dabbling in quality engineering, backend and frontend development, as well as middleware. Currently, I lead a team tasked with building SDKs. I find immense satisfaction in addressing scalability issues and truly value the agility and swift progression of software projects.
From my standpoint, the most effective method to identify your ideal field is to delve into both and discover what truly captivates you. Consider enrolling in beginner's courses for both hardware and software engineering, or seek out opportunities to participate in projects spanning both domains.
Here are a few introspective questions that might help you gain more insight:
1) Do you derive pleasure from hands-on activities, or are you more inclined towards abstract thinking?
If the idea of constructing and fiddling with gadgets excites you, hardware engineering could be your calling. On the other hand, if you enjoy dealing with code and algorithms, software engineering might be your cup of tea.
2) Do you possess patience and a keen eye for detail?
Hardware engineering demands a high degree of accuracy and meticulousness. Software engineering too calls for a detail-oriented approach, but it tends to be a tad more lenient with errors.
In the end, the most reliable way to determine the right field for you is to experience both and identify what brings you joy. Don't hesitate to experiment and venture into diverse facets of computer engineering. With perseverance and commitment, you're bound to excel in either domain.
On a personal note, I initially embarked on my journey as a hardware engineer for a brief period, working on IP-based PBX in the telecom sector. I then transitioned to software engineering, dabbling in quality engineering, backend and frontend development, as well as middleware. Currently, I lead a team tasked with building SDKs. I find immense satisfaction in addressing scalability issues and truly value the agility and swift progression of software projects.