Many careers have been heavily impacted by changes in big data. The big data revolution has had a profound effect on healthcare, marketing and many other fields. One of the fields that has been most affected by big data is electrical engineering.
Tom Dietterich, a professor of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Portland State University, has written an article on the impact of big data in this field. He wrote that big data has most affected the IoT and field of data analytics.
This is something you need to know if you are thinking of becoming an electrical engineer. If so, this is the guide for you. We want to make sure that you understand the role big data is going to play in your chosen profession.
In this article, we will outline the role of an electrical engineer, their average salary, and the education requirements and skill sets that are necessary to get a job in this position. We want to emphasize how big data has influenced all of these variables. If you already know how to become an electrical engineer, but want out more information, then keep on reading.
What is an Electrical Engineer? How Has Big Data changed the Career?
An electrical engineer is somebody that invents and develops new electrical systems, maintains them, and solves problems relating to the electrical field. With the use of mathematics and electronics, they can develop both large and small scale systems, including tiny microchips and massive supercomputers.
Big data has changed the career in numerous ways. One of the biggest changes is with smart grids, as Professor Yang Zhang of the Department of Energy at Polytechnic University of Turin in Italy points out. You need to understand all of the other areas big data is changing your profession as an electrical engineer.
The role of an Electrical Engineer:
Because Electrical Engineers work in such a broad field, duties can vary depending on the company they are employed with. They can work with a large variety of advanced tools and use CAD (computer-aided design) systems to assist them. Big data has created new technology every year, which is helping these engineers. Some of the tasks that they might be issued with include, but are not limited to:
- Evaluating and testing computing and electrical systems.
- Conducting research programs.
- Inventing electrical products.
- Answering questions and requests.
- Assuring product quality.
- Maintaining product databases.
They need to know how to use big data to handle these responsibilities.
Skill Requirements:
Almost all engineering positions will require you to have a bachelor’s degree. On top of that, you will need to possess different skills, including advanced mathematics, time management and data science to ensure a great work ethic. Some of the skills required for an electrical engineer include:
- Electronic Troubleshooting
- Project Management
- Advanced Analytics.
- Database Design
- Electronic System Management.
- Advanced Communication
- Data mining tools like Hadoop
Salary and Job Satisfaction:
The average yearly salary for an electrical engineer is around $96,000. However, this can vary due to different job descriptions and company roles. With employment growth growing, this is considered a highly satisfactory job for most engineers. Engineers with knowledge of Hadoop and other data mining tools can earn even more.
Overview:
So, there you have it! If you are considering becoming an electrical engineer, always remember to do your research and make sure that you have the required degree and skill set needed. If you are still undecided, make sure you check out other engineering career options to find the right fit for you.
Other Engineering Positions:
If you have chosen not to become an electrical engineer, there are still a large variety of engineering options including:
- Civil Engineer
- Chemical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
Understand the Changes Big Data Has Created for Electrical Engineers
Big data has changed many professions. The electrical engineering field is one of the fields that has been forced to evolve in the big data world. You should develop the data skills needed to thrive in this industry.