Firstly, let’s establish what a professional computer engineer even does. A computer engineer works in several fields, which include developing, deploying, and maintaining computer systems, networks, and infrastructure. It’s the engineer’s job to design computer hardware to develop new technologies, which means detailed research is a big aspect of the profession. Companies will look to hire computer engineers to design things like phones, processors, and routers. It’s hard work, but it’s handsomely compensated, as you enjoy an above-average pay. It differs on location and specialization, but the pay usually remains above 100,000$. To be a successful computer engineer you will need to do the following:
Get a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step is getting a bachelor’s degree in computer sciences, computer engineering, computer programming, or electrical engineering. And this includes a wide variety of subjects that you need to master, most important of all are: mathematics, physics, and electrical engineering. The advantage of this degree is that you can graduate without (almost) not stepping on university grounds. With freedom of movement restricted heavily during the pandemic, this becomes an even more attractive option. Enrolling online is a completely viable option for getting a degree, but do be careful, look for courses that are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). They accredit both standard and online courses. Another advantage of this degree is that it is almost entirely up to your place. If you wish to study extra during the winter and summer, then you can shorten your time until graduation.
Gain Experience and Skills in Relevant Areas
With more and more people taking an interest in computer engineering, you need to put in some extra effort to stand above the crowd. Getting an internship is a valuable experience that you can seek. Many colleges will offer internships to their students, this will lead you to be recognized more as you have already established yourself as an experienced employee, which dramatically raises your chances of getting employed over others, knowing how to give re-boot solutions in IT is a valuable trait that you get from experience. If you aren’t having luck with the college, then try to find some computer-related work during the summer, even part-time jobs will suffice, after all, those part-time jobs may lead to full-time employment once you finish your degree.
Some soft skills that help include:
• Problem-solving
• Communication skills
• Management
• Easy to work with
Get Relevant Certificates
The market is constantly shifting, and because of this, you have to adapt to it. Job candidates will want to go where work opportunities exist instead of waiting for an opportunity to work in their niche (which could very well take ages). This is why it’s recommendable to specialize but also remain adaptable to change. Some employers may even demand job candidates pursue higher certifications to work. These certifications are usually the main way of climbing the hierarchy of the business. Some of the more popular certification categories are:
• Microsoft Systems Administration (MCSA)
• Cisco Network (Wireless and Voice)
• Project Management
• VM Ware
Advanced Degrees and Further Ambitions
As is obvious, there are numerous benefits to attaining a master’s degree. It opens up more paths in the business and allows further growth and specialization. The better-paid jobs usually require a master’s degree. Hardware students usually return to college for post-graduation work. Multiple companies will even offer scholarships to potent employees, as a means of investing in them. There are a lot of options to choose from, which can be overwhelming at some points, for this reason, it’s necessary to think hard about what area you want to specialize in. You can choose from areas like:
• Network security
• Integrated circuits
• Software engineering
While those who want to pursue leadership and management roles should strive to get master of business administration (MBA) degrees with a focus on technology. Doctorates are best for those people that want to either teach at a university level or conduct advanced research in laboratories sponsored by universities. An engineer with a Ph.D. in IT can advance to roles such as:
• IT strategist
• Chief information officer
• Chief technology officer