7 answers
Bradley
Student
Aiken, South Carolina
1
Question
Asked
962 views
What skills are most important in becoming an electrical engineer?
I have recently been considering studying to become an electrical engineer. I was wondering what the career would consist of and what skills I would need to pursue a position in the field.
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7 answers
Sheila Schultz
Engineering Leader
53
Answers
Brighton, Michigan
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hi Bradley,
Thanks for your great engineering-related question!
I am a mechanical engineer by training, althogh some of my positions were more of an electrical engineering role. So, I will comment on what was interesting for me over my career.
There are many types of engineering – Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, Software, Industrial, Manufacturing and more. For electrical engineering, there are also many sub-focus areas, so you can pick the area(s) that you find the most interesting. Some examples include: Systems Engineering, Computer engineering, Telecommunications and much more. Electrical engineering spans many industries as well. I personally enjoyed working in the automotive/defense industry as a Systems Engineer/System Safety Engineer where the focus was on the electronic controllers/systems meeting safety requirements.
A great foundation for this career is math and science classes. To be an engineer, you would need to go to university for 4 years. Many people enter programs which offer co-op/internships. For these, you can work a few of your school terms. This enables work experience, different career areas to experience, and an opportunity to earn money along the way. For these programs, it could take 5+ years.
I have enjoyed my career with my engineering foundation. I currently lead a company which helps businesses operate more efficiently using software tools and artificial intelligence aids. Prior to this, I led a team for the Advanced System Integration of defense/military vehicles and projects. In addition, I had many other roles in my career in the automotive industry including thermal engineer, design/release engineer, vehicle systems engineer, system safety engineer, and a variety of engineering leader roles. The engineering foundation enabled me to have a successful and wide variety of career experiences.
Best wishes to you as you explore your future career.
Thanks for your great engineering-related question!
I am a mechanical engineer by training, althogh some of my positions were more of an electrical engineering role. So, I will comment on what was interesting for me over my career.
There are many types of engineering – Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, Software, Industrial, Manufacturing and more. For electrical engineering, there are also many sub-focus areas, so you can pick the area(s) that you find the most interesting. Some examples include: Systems Engineering, Computer engineering, Telecommunications and much more. Electrical engineering spans many industries as well. I personally enjoyed working in the automotive/defense industry as a Systems Engineer/System Safety Engineer where the focus was on the electronic controllers/systems meeting safety requirements.
A great foundation for this career is math and science classes. To be an engineer, you would need to go to university for 4 years. Many people enter programs which offer co-op/internships. For these, you can work a few of your school terms. This enables work experience, different career areas to experience, and an opportunity to earn money along the way. For these programs, it could take 5+ years.
I have enjoyed my career with my engineering foundation. I currently lead a company which helps businesses operate more efficiently using software tools and artificial intelligence aids. Prior to this, I led a team for the Advanced System Integration of defense/military vehicles and projects. In addition, I had many other roles in my career in the automotive industry including thermal engineer, design/release engineer, vehicle systems engineer, system safety engineer, and a variety of engineering leader roles. The engineering foundation enabled me to have a successful and wide variety of career experiences.
Best wishes to you as you explore your future career.
R. Aquiles
Electrical I&E
7
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
R.’s Answer
Hello Bradley,
As a basic starting point you will need to understand the ways of measuring and calculating electricity. Ohm's Law, what an amp is, how a series circuit is different from a parallel circuit, etc.
Learn about components such as electrical motors and their differences, stepper motor, brushless motor, servo motor. Types of sensors, proximity switches, limit switches.
The skills that you will use more than others will be Algebra and later Calculus. (for making load and circuit calculations), knowledge about various types of circuits and how the components will affect one another. This should be learned in school.
Programming, especially in C++, you can get started anywhere online to begin learning this.
CAD, the software for modeling circuits, because as an engineer you will be designing electrical systems.
As an Engineer you will be designing or modifying existing electrical systems. Or designing auxiliary equipment that will complement existing systems. A lot of your time will be spent replying to customers or other interested parties, such as Engineers from other companies. Creating designs for electricians or assemblers to physically make. And sometimes or for some jobs, getting hands one with equipment.
There does exist a variety of functions that electrical engineers can be roled into. I've seen Engineers that manage groups and some that never touch management and only focus on working on design.
As a basic starting point you will need to understand the ways of measuring and calculating electricity. Ohm's Law, what an amp is, how a series circuit is different from a parallel circuit, etc.
Learn about components such as electrical motors and their differences, stepper motor, brushless motor, servo motor. Types of sensors, proximity switches, limit switches.
The skills that you will use more than others will be Algebra and later Calculus. (for making load and circuit calculations), knowledge about various types of circuits and how the components will affect one another. This should be learned in school.
Programming, especially in C++, you can get started anywhere online to begin learning this.
CAD, the software for modeling circuits, because as an engineer you will be designing electrical systems.
As an Engineer you will be designing or modifying existing electrical systems. Or designing auxiliary equipment that will complement existing systems. A lot of your time will be spent replying to customers or other interested parties, such as Engineers from other companies. Creating designs for electricians or assemblers to physically make. And sometimes or for some jobs, getting hands one with equipment.
There does exist a variety of functions that electrical engineers can be roled into. I've seen Engineers that manage groups and some that never touch management and only focus on working on design.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
528
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Bradley,
Interesting question! Electrical engineering is a dynamic field that focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment. Here's what the career typically consists of and the key skills you’ll need to pursue a position in this field:
Core Responsibilities:
- Designing Electrical Systems: Developing electrical systems for various applications, such as power generation, communication systems, and electronics.
- Testing and Troubleshooting: Ensuring electrical components and systems are functioning properly and diagnosing issues when they arise.
- Circuit Design and Analysis: Working with circuits (both analog and digital) to improve efficiency and solve complex problems.
- Project Management: Coordinating teams, managing budgets, and ensuring projects meet technical requirements.
- Research and Development: Innovating new technologies and improving existing systems.
Essential Skills:
1. Mathematics: Strong skills in calculus, algebra, and geometry are essential for designing and analyzing systems.
2. Physics: Understanding the principles of electricity, magnetism, and circuits is key.
3. Problem-Solving: You'll need the ability to think critically and solve complex technical challenges.
4. Programming and Software Knowledge: Familiarity with computer programming (such as MATLAB, C, Python) and electrical engineering software (like SPICE or CAD tools).
5. Circuit Design: Learning how to design and analyze electrical circuits is fundamental to the role.
6. Communication: The ability to clearly explain complex ideas and work collaboratively with other engineers, clients, and stakeholders.
7. Attention to Detail: Ensuring designs are safe, efficient, and meet regulatory standards requires meticulous attention to detail.
8. Time Management and Project Coordination: Managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines is key in engineering.
Career Paths and Responsibilities:
Electrical engineers work in a variety of industries, including:
Electronics
Telecommunications
Power generation and distribution
Automation and control systems
Computer hardware
Research and development
Their responsibilities can vary widely, but common tasks include:
Designing and developing electrical systems and components
Conducting research and development
Testing and troubleshooting electrical equipment
Supervising engineering projects
Providing technical support
If you have a passion for technology, enjoy solving complex problems, and are comfortable with mathematics and physics, electrical engineering could be a rewarding career choice.
Best wishes!
Interesting question! Electrical engineering is a dynamic field that focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment. Here's what the career typically consists of and the key skills you’ll need to pursue a position in this field:
Core Responsibilities:
- Designing Electrical Systems: Developing electrical systems for various applications, such as power generation, communication systems, and electronics.
- Testing and Troubleshooting: Ensuring electrical components and systems are functioning properly and diagnosing issues when they arise.
- Circuit Design and Analysis: Working with circuits (both analog and digital) to improve efficiency and solve complex problems.
- Project Management: Coordinating teams, managing budgets, and ensuring projects meet technical requirements.
- Research and Development: Innovating new technologies and improving existing systems.
Essential Skills:
1. Mathematics: Strong skills in calculus, algebra, and geometry are essential for designing and analyzing systems.
2. Physics: Understanding the principles of electricity, magnetism, and circuits is key.
3. Problem-Solving: You'll need the ability to think critically and solve complex technical challenges.
4. Programming and Software Knowledge: Familiarity with computer programming (such as MATLAB, C, Python) and electrical engineering software (like SPICE or CAD tools).
5. Circuit Design: Learning how to design and analyze electrical circuits is fundamental to the role.
6. Communication: The ability to clearly explain complex ideas and work collaboratively with other engineers, clients, and stakeholders.
7. Attention to Detail: Ensuring designs are safe, efficient, and meet regulatory standards requires meticulous attention to detail.
8. Time Management and Project Coordination: Managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines is key in engineering.
Career Paths and Responsibilities:
Electrical engineers work in a variety of industries, including:
Electronics
Telecommunications
Power generation and distribution
Automation and control systems
Computer hardware
Research and development
Their responsibilities can vary widely, but common tasks include:
Designing and developing electrical systems and components
Conducting research and development
Testing and troubleshooting electrical equipment
Supervising engineering projects
Providing technical support
If you have a passion for technology, enjoy solving complex problems, and are comfortable with mathematics and physics, electrical engineering could be a rewarding career choice.
Best wishes!
Modesto Tala
Chemical Engineer
3
Answers
Grapevine, Texas
Updated
Modesto’s Answer
You need mathematics skills.
Aydil Ayber
Digital Innovation Consultant
9
Answers
Eindhoven, North Brabant, Netherlands
Updated
Aydil’s Answer
Hello Bradley,
I also studied Electrical Engineering and continue my career as Digital Innovation Consultant, in past also worked as business strategist.
Electrical engineering seems to be a specific major but it is actually not. There are many paths you can choose as an electrical engineer.
There are common skills for almost all of them such as;
Analytical thinking & problem solving methodologies (I suggest to take a look at Lean, Keizen frameworks, 5D, fishbone methods to learn)
Program Management (it is beneficial to know Agile Framework for new companies and SW sector and Prince2 kind of waterfall methods and certifications for mass-production and energy)
Also here are some different paths you can choose, if you have a clear vision on one of them, you can specifically focus on the requirements there:
1. Energy production and distribution even storage - only electrical engineers can work as engineer in high voltage areas. This is a never ending sector with specific people need. So the engineers there are rare and valuable.
2. Electronics - this is a major you can focus while studying electrical engineering and actually can work on any kind of low voltage electronic devices as hardware developer on new generation devices. Not everything on technology is about SW. Actually very special people build better and better processors, micro-chips, even servers and even quantum computers around the world.
3. Computer Engineering - Also Software side is driven from low voltage electrical engineering so there are lessons you can take to learn coding languages and be as good SW engineer as an HW one.
4. Construction - Every building has electrical engineers to build the electricity infrastructure and control it. This is also only possible for electrical engineers. That is a huge responsibility to sign the energy security papers of any construction area.
5. Smart Mobility & Automotive - I also worked in this major for years. Most of the people thinks it is a mechanical engineering job to design and produce car and car parts but actually a car has more electric - electronic parts and software than mechanical parts. Nowadays it is even getting bigger with connected and electrified cars.
6. Motors and Generators - Most of the technology devices uses motors and generators. There are big motor design companies around the world that you can happily create ones and have a good quality of life (Bosch, Siemens, etc)
7- Energy & Sustainability - There are growing opportunities in this sector. Bio-energy, thermal energy and nuclear energy production facilities are still having a huge effect on sustainability calculations of cities and countries. Being able to understand the dynamics and pros cons of those is a big advantage you can earn in Electrical engineering major.
I'm sure there are many more I missed to write here. Please remember that all of these are also businesses. You can always choose to manage big projects, be strategist or be business developer in those areas.
I also studied Electrical Engineering and continue my career as Digital Innovation Consultant, in past also worked as business strategist.
Electrical engineering seems to be a specific major but it is actually not. There are many paths you can choose as an electrical engineer.
There are common skills for almost all of them such as;
Analytical thinking & problem solving methodologies (I suggest to take a look at Lean, Keizen frameworks, 5D, fishbone methods to learn)
Program Management (it is beneficial to know Agile Framework for new companies and SW sector and Prince2 kind of waterfall methods and certifications for mass-production and energy)
Also here are some different paths you can choose, if you have a clear vision on one of them, you can specifically focus on the requirements there:
1. Energy production and distribution even storage - only electrical engineers can work as engineer in high voltage areas. This is a never ending sector with specific people need. So the engineers there are rare and valuable.
2. Electronics - this is a major you can focus while studying electrical engineering and actually can work on any kind of low voltage electronic devices as hardware developer on new generation devices. Not everything on technology is about SW. Actually very special people build better and better processors, micro-chips, even servers and even quantum computers around the world.
3. Computer Engineering - Also Software side is driven from low voltage electrical engineering so there are lessons you can take to learn coding languages and be as good SW engineer as an HW one.
4. Construction - Every building has electrical engineers to build the electricity infrastructure and control it. This is also only possible for electrical engineers. That is a huge responsibility to sign the energy security papers of any construction area.
5. Smart Mobility & Automotive - I also worked in this major for years. Most of the people thinks it is a mechanical engineering job to design and produce car and car parts but actually a car has more electric - electronic parts and software than mechanical parts. Nowadays it is even getting bigger with connected and electrified cars.
6. Motors and Generators - Most of the technology devices uses motors and generators. There are big motor design companies around the world that you can happily create ones and have a good quality of life (Bosch, Siemens, etc)
7- Energy & Sustainability - There are growing opportunities in this sector. Bio-energy, thermal energy and nuclear energy production facilities are still having a huge effect on sustainability calculations of cities and countries. Being able to understand the dynamics and pros cons of those is a big advantage you can earn in Electrical engineering major.
I'm sure there are many more I missed to write here. Please remember that all of these are also businesses. You can always choose to manage big projects, be strategist or be business developer in those areas.
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
327
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Bradley:
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Electrical Engineering. Physics and chemistry will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, statistics and calculus will be needed. Other classes to take will be computer science and applied technology. The combination of these concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail and observation skills; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration amongst team members, partner departments and clients occur on a daily basis. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills since analysis reports are generated and findings are presented to colleagues and other professionals who deal with Electrical Engineering. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers. They can help guide your educational pathway for Electrical Engineering.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Electrical Engineering:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Stanford University
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- California Institute of Technology
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Purdue University (West Lafayette)
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- Cornell University
- University of Texas (Austin)
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/engineering-doctorate-electrical-electronic-communications
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and gain entry to the college of your choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
According to Indeed.com, here are some top careers in Electrical Engineering:
- Controls Engineer
- Test Engineer
- Electrical Project Manager
- Electrical Designer
- Sustainability Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Equipment Engineer
- Aeronautical Engineer
- Electronics Engineer
- Hardware Engineer
- Software Engineer
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/jobs-with-electrical-engineering
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Electrical Engineering!
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Electrical Engineering. Physics and chemistry will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, statistics and calculus will be needed. Other classes to take will be computer science and applied technology. The combination of these concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail and observation skills; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration amongst team members, partner departments and clients occur on a daily basis. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills since analysis reports are generated and findings are presented to colleagues and other professionals who deal with Electrical Engineering. Another recommendation is to seek the advice from your high school guidance counselor and teachers. They can help guide your educational pathway for Electrical Engineering.
According to U.S. News & World Report, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Electrical Engineering:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Stanford University
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- California Institute of Technology
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Purdue University (West Lafayette)
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- Cornell University
- University of Texas (Austin)
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/engineering-doctorate-electrical-electronic-communications
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and gain entry to the college of your choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
According to Indeed.com, here are some top careers in Electrical Engineering:
- Controls Engineer
- Test Engineer
- Electrical Project Manager
- Electrical Designer
- Sustainability Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Equipment Engineer
- Aeronautical Engineer
- Electronics Engineer
- Hardware Engineer
- Software Engineer
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/jobs-with-electrical-engineering
Hope this helps and best wishes for your education and career in Electrical Engineering!
john daley
engineering and maintenance
17
Answers
East Bridgewater, Massachusetts
Updated
john’s Answer
As far as skills needed, I'd say the following would be key to being successful at electrical engineering. These are skills you can work on, develop and study for:
Critical thinking
Out of the box thinking
Mathematics
Problem solving
Troubleshooting
Attention to detail
Analytical mindset
Critical thinking
Out of the box thinking
Mathematics
Problem solving
Troubleshooting
Attention to detail
Analytical mindset