become a computer engineer

How to Become a Computer Engineering Tech in 5 Simple Steps

Whether you've just graduated from high school, or you've decided it's time to take a new direction, choosing your path can be a daunting task. It's often difficult to know exactly how to turn what you're truly passionate about into a future that you'll feel excited to wake up to. If you enjoy computers and want to be at the forefront of technological advancement, a job in computer engineering may be an option to consider. 

1. Never Work a Day

So first things first: do you love computers? Could you see yourself spending hours soldering chips to a motherboard, or surrounded by hundreds of networking cables? When choosing a degree program, especially one as technical as computer engineering, going in halfheartedly will only spell disaster as courses become more demanding down the road. So it's important to know whether you're willing to endure in order to succeed in such a demanding field. 

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2. What Does This Button Do?

As a computer engineering technologist, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with all the different technology you may encounter on a daily basis. There are the notable differences in PCs and Macs, but there are also the internal components such as the hard drive, the video and audio cards, and even the battery. And of course, there are the external components and attachments for computers, such as adapters, routers, and modems. 

You should also become accustomed to the software that these devices use to operate. Several different operating systems can run on various devices, such as OS X for Apple products and Windows for Microsoft. UNIX-like open source operating systems, such as Linux, are available for those who wish to take a hands-on approach to their computer's functionality. There are also numerous commercially produced programs and countless custom-built programs that can affect computers or their peripheral components. 

3. Down To Brass Tacks (And Silicon Microprocessors) 

If learning the basics wasn't enough to drive you away, congratulations. Now it's time to get serious. Computer engineering techs utilize an array of skills that allow them to seamlessly go from fixing a burnt out chip to finding and eliminating harmful viruses. These skills can be acquired through mastering the three fundamental fields that comprise computer engineering: hardware, software, and electrical engineering.

  • Hardware engineering deals with the internal and external components of the computer. You will likely learn how to recognize each individual part that comprises a modern computer, how they operate, how to replace them, and how they integrate with one another. 
  • Software engineering deals with programming and script writing. Delving into this field of study gives you a basic understanding of the language computers use to communicate information, as well as how to write code and create programs.
  • Electrical engineering deals with the power and technology that allows computers to function. This involves creating circuit boards and utilizing the electrical components that exist in computers, such as conductors, resistors, and diodes.

Along with the previous three disciplines, you will also need to learn about networking. This will include both wireless systems and physical connections, and teach you how to have computers interface on small scales households as well as large scale corporations.

4. Highly Accredited 

You've learned everything you need to know, so landing a cushy job should be a cinch, right? Wrong. Computer technology is a constantly evolving field, and you have to evolve with it. Be sure to learn about new advancements as well as brush up on your basics. Even if you find yourself in a highly specialized position, it pays to be prepared for anything.

Now you must be thinking to yourself, is all this hard work and dedication worth it? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average income for entries into the computer hardware engineering field was over $100,000. With further training and certification, the annual income could be even greater. So not only could you be doing a job you've poured your life into, you're could get paid handsomely in return.

5. Take the First Virtual Step 

Before you can get started, you have to overcome the first hurdle: getting your degree. Fortunately, ECPI University can help get you on the path with our Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology. Besides the standard courses mentioned previously, ECPI offers electives such as fiber optics, robotics, and available externships, allowing you a unique, varied, and hands-on experience. ECPI University also offers an accelerated year-round program, so you could obtain your degree in only 2.5 years. It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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