ADD ADVICE TO FAVElectrical / electronic engineering
Here’s the good news: electrical and electronic engineers are in demand, and graduates with the right mix of technical skills and attitudes may well find themselves in the position of taking their pick of the job offers.
’Electrical and electronic engineers work in almost all industries and sectors, including broadcasting, telecommunications, manufacturing, energy, aerospace and IT,’ explains Steve Holloway, Professional Development Adviser for the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). ’In particular, there is a major demand in power companies for skilled electrical engineers.’
There is hardly an area in modern society not touched by electrical and electronic engineers. Mobile phones, fridges and transcontinental computer networks all result from the talents and imaginations of engineers. The challenges and opportunities are soaring and British engineers are at the forefront of concept and design.
Skills for electrical and electronic engineers
Strong technical skills are clearly indispensable, but employers are looking for more. ’Being a team player, having good communication skills and demonstrating a passion for your subject are all keenly sought after in industry,’ says Holloway.
Work experience is also important, and gives both employer and trainee a chance to find out if the fit is good, both in terms of skills and character. ’We commonly hear from employers that undergraduates return to university full of enthusiasm for their subject, having seen it being applied to real life. And many return to the placement employer after their degree.’
It’s a good idea to become a student member of the IET, as this gives access to information, creates networking opportunities and shows your commitment to your future career. Networking is important for engineers, Holloway stresses: ’It is not uncommon for companies to offer positions to qualified engineers even though the firm is not currently advertising.’
Graduatte job descriptions
Engineering education and training
Once in a job, the next step for graduate engineers is to become registered as either an Incorporated or Chartered Engineer.
’Registered engineers progress far better and faster than non-registered,’ explains Holloway. It takes around three to five years to achieve Incorporated status and four to six years for Chartered status. The IET accredits employers’ professional development schemes to ensure that new recruits are learning appropriate material.
Engineering has been described as a ’learning profession’, and many engineers spend several hours a week in continuing education, formally or informally. Because technology is always changing, some applications and methods covered in university may not be current just two years later. Your education has only just begun with the completion of your formal, full-time educational programme.
Professional bodies in electrical / electronic engineering
The IET is the largest professional engineering society in Europe. Membership comprises individuals from a diverse range of technical backgrounds, including IT, communications technology, electronics, electrical, power engineering, software, control, informatics and manufacturing.
