Unit 9 Competency 1 - Describe educational and occupational opportunities in the field of computer engineering

Suggested Objective a:  Discuss the field of computer engineering

 

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Computer engineers continually push the capability and applicability of computers in every industry and every facet of modern life.

Computer engineers embed computers in other machines and systems, build networks to transfer data, and develop ways to make computers, faster, smaller, and more capable. Computer engineers are improving the ability of computers to "see" and "think." They are making computers more mobile, and even incorporating computers into fabrics, clothes, and building materials.

Computer engineers are concerned with analyzing and solving computer-oriented problems. CPEs understand both the hardware and the software of computers. This enables them to choose the solution that is best, not just the one they know. Sometimes the answer to making a program more efficient is a change in the computer itself. Sometimes it's cheaper and faster to change the software than the hardware. The knowledge of both the "body" and the "mind" of a computer helps computer engineers work at the microscopic level and on a large, system-wide scale.

Computer engineers use many of the principles and techniques of electrical engineering and many of computer science. Computer engineering, however, is more than a blend of two other fields.

The major technical areas of CPE:

 

Computer engineering graduates typically have some of the highest starting salaries in engineering. Computer engineers have the option of moving into hardware or software positions, or blending the two.

Typical industries hiring computer engineers, include financial services, computer manufacturers, chemical companies, defense contractors, consulting, transportation, manufacturing, and consumer goods. Computer engineers are equally successful in large multinational firms and small startups.

Information copied from http://www.ece.vt.edu/ugrad/cpe.html Links to an external site. on December 1, 2014.

Live Science website offers information for computer engineering.  Go to http://www.livescience.com/48326-computer-engineering.html Links to an external site. to read more of the history of computer engineering including its pioneers and what their contributions were to the field.  The following explains what a computer engineer does.

Computer hardware engineers "research, design, develop and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks and routers," according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Links to an external site. (BLS). Computer hardware includes:

• microprocessors;
• memory chips: random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM) and nonvolatile rewritable flash memory;
• data storage devices: hard disks, solid-state drives and optical drives;
• input devices: keyboards, mice, joysticks and gaming controllers, cameras, microphones, scanners, touch screens and remote sensors;
• output devices: printers, monitors, audio devices and remote controls; and
• networking components: adapters, modems, switches and routers.

An important function of computer engineers is to integrate these components into computer and network systems. This all requires a good working knowledge of electrical engineering Links to an external site..

Another important aspect of computer engineering is software development. Computer software includes:

• operating systems;
• applications: word processing, spreadsheets, accounting, database management, graphics, computer-assisted design (CAD), computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM), audio, video, media and games;
• networking and communications: World Wide Web (WWW), voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP), instant messaging and email;
• utilities: file handling, disk management, device drivers, archiving and backup systems;
• programming languages: editing, compiling and debugging; and
• security: antivirus, firewalls, encryption and user authentication.

Information copied from http://www.livescience.com/48326-computer-engineering.html Links to an external site. on December 1, 2014.

What Is Computer Engineering? Links to an external site.

What Is Computer Engineering [HD] Links to an external site.

 

Suggested Objective b:  Determine the educational requirements for a computer engineer

 

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Most entry-level computer hardware engineers have a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, although a degree in electrical engineering or computer science generally is acceptable. A computer engineering major is similar to electrical engineering but with a heavy emphasis on computer science curriculum.

Many engineering programs are accredited by ABET (formerly the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). Employers may prefer students from an accredited program. To prepare for a major in computer or electrical engineering, students should have a solid background in math and science.

Because hardware engineers commonly work with computer software systems, a familiarity with computer programming is usually expected. This background may be obtained through computer science courses.

Some large firms or specialized jobs require a master’s degree in computer engineering. Some experienced engineers obtain a master’s degree in business administration (MBA). All engineers must continue their learning over the course of their careers to keep up with rapid advances in technology.

Information was copied from http://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/computer-hardware-engineers.htm#tab-4 Links to an external site.on December 1, 2014.

 

How to Become a Computer Engineer

Education Required

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that those working in computer engineering held a bachelor's degree or higher. Bachelor's degrees in software engineering or computer science are a common place to start. Coursework to prepare the student computer engineer will include such topics as database design, systems analysis, critical thinking and technical writing. Because computer technology is a field that is constantly changing, continued education is vital to a successful career in computer engineering.

Skills Required

People who enjoy a career in computer engineering usually have strong analytical skills and are able to focus on many tasks at once. Because computer engineers must sometimes work with customers and clients, the ability to express computer-related information in layman's terms is also valued.

Career and Economic Outlook

The BLS projected that computer hardware engineers will see slower than average employment growth from 2012-2022. The Bureau also reported the median annual salary of computer hardware engineers was $100,920 in May 2012, with the top ten percent earning $150,130 or more.

There is a video at the site the above information was copied from.  Visit the site to view the video for Becoming a Computer Engineer Links to an external site..  Information was copied from http://education-portal.com/articles/Computer_Engineers_Career_Info_and_Job_Description_for_a_Computer_Engineer.html Links to an external site. on December 1, 2014.