Unit 8 Competency 1 - Describe educational and occupational opportunities in the field of electrical engineering

Suggested Objective a:  Discuss the field of electrical engineering

 

Image copied from http://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electrical-and-electronics-engineers.htm#tab-4 Links to an external site. on November 24, 2014

Electrical engineering is one of the newer branches of engineering, and dates back to the late 19th century. It is the branch of engineering that deals with the technology of electricity. Electrical engineers work on a wide range of components, devices and systems, from tiny microchips to huge power station generators.  Click the LiveScience Links to an external site.link to learn more about electrical engineering.

Information copied from http://www.livescience.com/47571-electrical-engineering.html Links to an external site. on November 24, 2014.

 

10 Good Reasons Why to Study Electrical Engineering Links to an external site.

1. It's easy to get your first job
2. You can work in another country
3. Student practice can be extended to employment
4. You gain a wide range of knowledge during your studies
5. Computer skills
6. Adrenaline
7. DIY
8. Mr./Mrs. Fix-It
9. New stuff gets out all the time - it never gets boring
10. Only few simple rules to follow

• Things work better when plugged to power
• Electrical components work on smoke - when it gets out you are in trouble
• If things don't work, read a manual

Information taken from http://www.mastersportal.eu/articles/181/10-good-reasons-why-to-study-electrical-engineering.html Links to an external site. on November 24, 2014.

Electrical Engineering Links to an external site.

What Is an Electrical Engineer? Links to an external site.

 

Suggested Objective b:  Determine the educational requirements for an electrical engineer

 

Image copied from http://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electrical-and-electronics-engineers.htm Links to an external site. on November 24, 2014

Electrical and electronics engineers must have a bachelor’s degree. Employers also value practical experience, so participation in cooperative engineering programs, in which students earn academic credit for structured work experience, is valuable as well. Having a Professional Engineer (PE) license may improve an engineer’s chances of finding employment.

Education

High school students interested in studying electrical or electronics engineering benefit from taking courses in physics and mathematics, including algebra, trigonometry, and calculus. Courses in drafting are also helpful, because electrical and electronics engineers are often required to prepare technical drawings.

Entry-level jobs in electrical or electronics engineering generally require a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, or electrical engineering technology. Programs include classroom, laboratory, and field studies. Courses include digital systems design, differential equations, and electrical circuit theory. Programs in electrical engineering should be accredited by ABET.

Some colleges and universities offer cooperative programs in which students gain practical experience while completing their education. Cooperative programs combine classroom study with practical work.

At some universities, students can enroll in a 5-year program that leads to both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. A graduate degree allows an engineer to work as an instructor at some universities, or in research and development.

Important Qualities

Concentration. Electrical and electronics engineers design and develop complex electrical systems and electronic components and products. They must be able to keep track of multiple design elements and technical characteristics when performing these tasks.

Initiative. Electrical and electronics engineers must be able to apply their academic knowledge to new tasks in every project they undertake. In addition, they must engage in continuing education to keep up with changes in technology.

Interpersonal skills. Electrical and electronics engineers must be able to work with others during the manufacturing process to ensure that their plans are implemented correctly. This collaboration includes monitoring technicians and devising remedies to problems as they arise.

Math skills. Electrical and electronics engineers must be able to use the principles of calculus and other advanced topics in math in order to analyze, design, and troubleshoot equipment.

Speaking skills. Electrical and electronics engineers work closely with other engineers and technicians. They must be able to explain their designs and reasoning clearly and to relay instructions during product development and production. They may also need to explain complex issues to customers who have little or no technical expertise.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

Licensure for electrical and electronics engineers is not as common as it is for other engineering occupations; however, it is encouraged for those working in companies that have contracts with federal, state, and local government. Engineers who become licensed are designated Professional Engineers (PEs). Licensure generally requires the following:

• A degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program
• A passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
• Relevant work experience
• A passing score on the Professional Engineering (PE) exam

The initial Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam can be taken right after graduation from a college or university. Engineers who pass this exam commonly are called engineers in training (EITs) or engineer interns (EIs). After getting work experience, EITs can take the second exam, called the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam.

Several states require engineers to take continuing education courses to keep their license. Most states recognize licensure from other states if the licensing state’s requirements meet or exceed their own licensure requirements.

Information copied from http://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electrical-and-electronics-engineers.htm#tab-4 Links to an external site. on November 24, 2014

Look at The Education & Training Requirements for an Electrical Engineer Links to an external site. to learn more on how to become an electrical engineer.