The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering opens doors in many industries because technology is always growing. An electrical engineering background is very valuable in almost any field of technology (e.g., computer design, telecommunications, automobile manufacturing, etc.), as the technology industry needs people who can design, develop, and test electrical equipment.
In our time of ever-expanding technology, these are precisely the skills that you will develop while completing your electrical engineering degree.
- Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
- Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
- Comprehension - Ability to comprehend complex systems, concepts, and functions.
- Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
- Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
- Science - Knowledge and a natural interest in science and the use of scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 4% job growth for electrical and electronics engineers by 2022 due to engineers’ versatility in developing and applying emerging technologies. Candidates with knowledge of the delivery and distribution of electricity are in demand in a variety of industries as the use of electricity is universal. Where will you choose to go?
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Chemical
- Construction
- Defense
- Energy/Oil & Gas
- Industrial Materials
- Manufacturing
- Marine
- Medical Equipment
- Pharmaceuticals
- Railways
- Technology
- Telecommunications
To identify what education or training is typical for careers within the electrical engineering field, use the O*Net hyperlinks below and click on “Job Zone.”
As with all majors, the education you receive serves as a foundation of knowledge that prepares you for what you may face in the professional world. The career field you chose may require additional education or experience.
Gaining real life experience is an ideal way to start a new career. The job board within CareerLink has an extensive list of internships. Browse through the internships organized by interest, location, or organization. Students with open elective credit in many programs can participate in an internship course for elective credit. To learn more about this option, log-in to CareerLink and search Internship in the resources section.
There are government-organized internship programs, many of which require students to maintain either a half-time or full-time student status. The best ways to identify potential opportunities such as these is to contact branch offices directly, to search USAJobs.gov, or to look at the agencies' career portals. Keep in mind that these positions are not always posted online, so direct contact with the agency is key.
Pathways
The Pathways Program is a federal initiative that offers internship programs for current students and training and career development opportunities for recent graduates. Recent graduates must apply within two years of degree or certificate completion (except for veterans, due to their military service obligation, will have up to six years to apply).The internship program for current students replaces the former Student Career Experience Program (SCEP) and Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP).
The Presidential Management Fellows Program (PMF)
PMF is designed to attract to federal service outstanding men and women from a wide variety of academic disciplines who have a clear interest in, and commitment to, a career in the analysis and management of public policies and programs. To be eligible for nomination, an individual must be a graduate student completing or expected to complete, during the current academic year, an advanced degree from a qualifying college or university.
The Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP)
WRP is coordinated by the Office of Disability Employment Policy and the U.S. Department of Defense, and aims to provide summer work experience, and in some cases full-time employment, to college students with disabilities. The program develops partnerships with other federal agencies, each of whom makes a commitment to provide summer jobs and a staff recruiter. Each year, recruiters interview about 1,500 students with disabilities at college and university campuses across the nation, and develop a database listing the qualifications of each student.
There are several government agencies and organizations that seek candidates with degrees in electrical engineering. The list below provides examples of places one might find employment using his or her degree.
- Boeing
- Federal Bureau of Reclamation
- General Electric
- Mine Safety and Health Administration
- National Security Agency
- Rand Engineering
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
While many of the major job search engines will have positions in several fields to choose from, the list below is specific to the electrical engineering field.
Involvement in professional organizations is a great way to stay up-to-date on new technology, tools, and best practices in your field. Professional organizations are also a great networking opportunity. Below are a few professional organizations you may be interested in as an electrical engineering major.
A login may be required for access to social media.
- Electrical Engineering - Facebook