Some possible jobs within this career area are:
Depending on your salary goals, you might need to continue your education throughout your engineering career. Commonly offered degree programs include:
- Associate’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- PhD
Careers in the engineering field are changing along with the world economy. The growth of computers and microprocessors is making software engineers and computer engineers in high demand. However, many of these jobs are growing in countries like China and India. To be successful, you might need to pursue a graduate degree to increase your earning potential and make yourself a more marketable employee. Beyond the global job market, engineers are always in demand. Infrastructure projects designed to boost the economy also boost the job market for civil engineers. Companies need engineers for their research and development projects, and some of the world’s most renowned software and computer companies rely on the creativity of their engineers to remain relevant in today’s fast-paced world.
Most Bachelor’s Degrees for engineering take four years, and some engineers go to college for six years to earn combined Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. A select number of engineers return to school to get their PhD, while other engineers enter the workforce with a two-year Associate’s Degree.
How to Become a Computer Engineering Technician
A computer engineering technician applies their engineering and science knowledge to assist engineers in designing computer hardware and software. Depending on the industry they may also help develop and design computer installations and systems as well. Although most computer engineering technician careers require earning an Associate in Applied Science degree in Computer Engineering Technology, many choose to become a computer engineering technician while continuing their education for a four-year engineering degree.
Computer Engineering Technician Education
A computer engineering career will require a two-year degree in computer engineering, which can be completed at a community college. If you plans include becoming an engineer you should make sure your credits will transfer to a four-year college before enrolling in the program. In addition, make sure the program is accredited by the Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Typical course subjects you will take to begin your career in computer engineering are networking technology, programming, systems installation and development, microprocessors, circuits, digital techniques, solid state and microminiaturized circuitry, and data communications. You will also need to take core classes such as English, mathematics, humanities, and social science to round out your education.
Computer Engineering Technician Salaries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the median annual computer engineering technician salary in 2008 was $53,240. The lowest ten percent, which typically represents entry-level positions, earned under $32,500. The highest ten percent of computer engineering technician salaries was over $78,560 per year. (Salary data retrieved 6/27/11)
To get the education you need to start a career as a computer engineering technician, find a degree program now!