Thinking about becoming an electrical engineer? There are great opportunities in the career field. In this blog we explore what electrical engineering is, how you can become an electrical engineer, what a day in the life of an electrical engineer is like, and how much you can expect to make in the industry.
What is electrical engineering?
Electrical engineering is a branch of engineering that officially originated from mid-nineteenth century. It’s a technical discipline which is used to study and design equipment which use electricity and electronics.
Over the past several decades, electrical engineering has become a very vibrant and ever evolving branch of engineering. As of today, electrical engineering can be divided into a wide range of fields to include electromagnetics, optics, control engineering, computer engineering, power engineering, telecommunications, radio-frequency engineering, signal processing, systems engineering, sensors and instrumentation, and electronics.
What do electrical engineers do?
The electrical engineers design electrical circuits and systems to perform specific functions and meet requirements for safety, reliability, and energy efficiency. As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the electrical engineers are also employed to perform research, design, develop, test, or supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical equipment, components, or systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use.
How to become an electrical engineer?
Critical skills that are needed in electrical engineering include an in-depth understanding of electrical and electronic theory, mathematics, and materials. A four-year bachelor’s degree is required to become an electrical engineer.
The Electrical Engineering program at UT Permian Basin covers a broad range of topics, including: circuits, automatic controls, micro-electronics, digital circuits, computers, communications, electric machines, electromagnetics, computer networks, signals, image and speech processing, and power systems. Upon the completion of the program, you will have the opportunity to obtain licensure as a professional engineer.
Why study electrical engineering?
Electrical engineering is an interesting and exciting field of study that has led to many inventions for human welfare and well-being. Electrical engineers are employed in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, defense, manufacturing, power generation, power transmission and distribution, oil and gas, to mention some. From gigantic wind energy turbines to tiny microchips, the electrical engineers are at the forefront to meet our technology and energy needs. Overall employment of electrical engineers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. With the advent of electrical vehicles and increased dependence on renewable energy resources, electrical engineers will be higher in demand.
What does an electrical engineer do on a daily basis?
Electrical engineers work in industries including research and development, engineering services, manufacturing, telecommunications, and the federal government. Electrical engineers generally work indoors in offices. However, they may have to visit sites to observe and troubleshoot a problem or a piece of complex equipment.
How much does an electrical engineer make?
As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the electrical engineers’ mean annual wage is around $ 105,990.
Why should you choose the UT Permian Basin Electrical Engineering Program?
UT Permian Basin College of Engineering is ranked the #1 best value engineering schools in Texas, has awarded more than $150,000 in scholarships, and continually beats national and state averages pass rates for the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam.
The College of Engineering building officially opened its doors in fall 2019. The three-story building covers 105,801 square feet and cost $55 million. Inside you'll find state-of-the-art laboratories, classrooms that lend to hands-on learning, a lecture hall, study spaces, and so much more.