A Journey Through Electrical Engineering Careers: Insights and Realities

The world of electrical engineering offers a diverse spectrum of career opportunities, ranging from government agencies to private enterprises. This article explores the various paths one can take after completing an electrical engineering degree from an average college and shares valuable insights from personal experiences. Whether you are a diligent student or a job seeker with entrepreneurial spirit, there is something for everyone in the field.

Exploring the Varied Landscape of Jobs

The variety of jobs available in electrical engineering is limited only by your imagination and the level of risk you are willing to undertake. As one of my instructors once said, We don't call them tickets for nothing; a job will land you there but says nothing about the quality of the work. It's important to shop carefully and find a place that aligns with your interests and goals.

Understanding Your Interests

Knowing your interests is crucial in choosing the right career path within electrical engineering. Sometimes, your choice of subfield will determine your career trajectory. The most important aspect is finding a well-motivated group of colleagues who can help you grow professionally. If you make a mistake, it can be a learning experience that positions you better for future opportunities.

Embracing Small Businesses

Don't be afraid to work for small businesses. Often, they can provide the best growth opportunities, especially if you are self-driven. In a small company, you might be the only one with expertise in a particular area. This offers a unique chance to learn and expand your knowledge. However, it’s important to remember that making mistakes is part of the learning process. Don't shy away from taking risks and learning from your experiences.

Larger Companies vs. Small Businesses

For those who are not self-starters, bigger companies can offer more structured guidance and mentorship. However, this may not always be the case. The choice between smaller, more flexible companies and larger, more stable ones depends on your personal career goals and risk tolerance.

A Personal Career Journey

My career journey reflects the diversity and challenges in this field. I graduated from a mid-western college in 1980 with an EE degree. I was a diligent student, always excelling in technical interviews and assignments. Despite several job offers from large companies, I chose to work for a startup, which turned out to be a high-risk venture.

Early Career at a Startup

Initially, my work was focused on manufacturing issues. This startup rapidly developed prototypes but struggled with manufacturing and marketing. My role involved ensuring the reliability of connectors and printed circuit board layouts, an area that was new to me and quite stressful. Unfortunately, the company failed within two years, and I had to find new opportunities.

Suitable Environment at a Small Manufacturer

Next, I worked for a small computer manufacturer where my primary task was to create a test fixture for a disk controller. This was a great learning experience, and I stayed with the company for 15 months. After that, I returned to school to pursue a Master’s degree in Computer Science.

Long-Term Experience at a Networking Manufacturer

My final 13 years were spent at a large Silicon Valley networking manufacturer, working in network management. Here, I was one of the first programmers to work with Java, a game-changer at the time. Despite the generous offer for early retirement in 2011, I decided to seize a new adventure by taking flying lessons.

These experiences highlight the diverse opportunities and challenges in the field of electrical engineering. Whether you are a student or a professional, it's important to stay adaptable, learn from mistakes, and continuously grow both personally and professionally.

Key Takeaways

Explore your interests within the varied subfields of electrical engineering. Avoid being afraid to work for small businesses and embrace the learning opportunities they provide. Understand the value of both large and small companies, and choose based on your career goals and risk tolerance. Respect all colleagues, no matter their position in the company.

Conclusion

The journey through the world of electrical engineering can be both challenging and rewarding. By understanding your interests, embracing new opportunities, and learning from experiences, you can navigate the ever-evolving landscape and find a fulfilling career.