Are you interested in creating new things and solving problems in new ways? If that sounds like you, a career in electrical engineering might be just the thing. Electrical engineers work with a wide range of electronics, from the tiny to the large. They typically deal with electricity, electro-magnetism, and electronics, developing and testing equipment, and solving problems. Once you have decided that this is the career for you, looking at the different jobs available and the skills required, there are several steps that you need to take to become an electrical engineer.
Earn a Degree
The first step that you need to take to become an electrical engineer is to achieve an electrical engineering degree. This can be a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree, although studies have shown that electrical engineers with a master’s degree or a doctorate make much more money annually than those with a bachelor’s degree. An online master of science in electrical engineering degree, like those offered at New Jersey Institute of Technology, are a great way to increase your earning potential and make your portfolio even more impressive.
Take the Fundamentals of Engineering Test
Once you have graduated with your degree, you are able to work in the field of electrical engineering. However, many say that it is important to take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. This test is required if you are planning to work with utilities in any way, and must be taken if you are planning to take the Professional Engineer Exam. After passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, you will be called an engineer-in-training, or an engineer intern. To qualify for the next step, students must have both a complete degree from a college or university that is accredited, as well as a passing grade on the Fundamentals of Engineering Test.
Get Experience
Once you have passed the Fundamentals of Engineering test, or FE, the next step is to work hard and get some experience working in the field. Since most degree programs require an internship, you should have an idea of the type of work you want to do. Even if you have a strict goal, however, the most important part of this experience is to build your portfolio, learn from experts in the felid, get hands-on experience, and build professional contacts. While working and gaining more experience, it is also important to stay informed about any changes that are happening in the field.
Once you have done all of these things, you will be able to take the Professional Engineer Exam. To take this test, you will need to have four years of engineering experience, and be willing to keep learning about anything that is happening in the field. You are not required to take the test, but it does open up doors to you in a wider range of positions. Once you have a degree, have passed the Fundamentals of Engineering Test, have four years of work experience, and have passed the Professional Engineer Exam, you will have the credentials you need, as well as a wonderful portfolio that shows what you can do.
