Is electronic/computer/hardware engineering a bad field to go into?

In summary, computer hardware engineers are projected to have slower growth than other occupations, but the industry is expected to be adversely affected by intense foreign competition. If you want to be a computer engineer, be a computer engineer and focus on learning math and basic literacy. If you want to pursue a different career, consider moving to a country with a high demand for that field or learning politics and making sure you vote.
  • #1
clint222
36
0
Hello!

I am very interested in computer hardware and software, physics, and math, so I might want to become a computer engineer. However I am worried by the fact that the US Occupational handbook says:

"Electronics engineers, except computer, are expected to experience little to no employment change over the projections decade. Although rising demand for electronic goods—including communications equipment, defense-related equipment, medical electronics, and consumer products—should continue to increase demand for electronics engineers, foreign competition in electronic products development and the use of engineering services performed in other countries will limit employment growth. Growth is expected to be fastest in service-providing industries—particularly in firms that provide engineering and design services."

"Computer hardware engineers are expected to have employment growth of 4 percent over the projections decade, slower than the average for all occupations. Although the use of information technology continues to expand rapidly, the manufacture of computer hardware is expected to be adversely affected by intense foreign competition. As computer and semiconductor manufacturers contract out more of their engineering needs to both domestic and foreign design firms, much of the growth in employment of hardware engineers is expected to take place in the computer systems design and related services industry."

While civil engineer are supposed to grow 24%, and the average growth is 7% I think.

Does this mean hardware engineering is a bad field to go into? Would it be difficult to get work? Would I be better off going into software engineering, or some other kind of engineering?

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
This is something I would like to know as well.
 
  • #3
You should not choose a major or career path based on projections for employment. If you want to be a computer engineer, be a computer engineer.
 
  • #4
clint222 said:
Does this mean hardware engineering is a bad field to go into? Would it be difficult to get work? Would I be better off going into software engineering, or some other kind of engineering?

One thing about projections is that you really should read economic forecasts from about ten years ago, and one thing that you'll quickly figure out is that sorts of forecasts tend to be seriously wrong. Right now a 4% growth in employment looks good.

What you really need to do is to get a good basic literacy training rather than focusing on a specific field. That way you can jump relatively easily from field to field depending on where the jobs are. Something that helps a lot is the fact if there is a shortage of people in field A, and huge demand for people in field B, people will move from field A to B. If you can do high level math, then you can move from oil to logistics to finance.

One other thing. If the jobs are overseas, consider moving overseas. We are in a global world.

The other thing is to learn politics and whatever you do, make sure you vote this November. A lot of what happens depends on the decisions you make.
 
  • #5
Thank you for the info.
 

1. Is electronic engineering a good field to go into?

Yes, electronic engineering is a highly sought after and rapidly growing field. With the increasing reliance on technology in all aspects of our lives, there is a high demand for skilled electronic engineers to design, develop, and maintain electronic devices and systems.

2. What are the job prospects for computer engineering?

The job prospects for computer engineering are excellent. As technology continues to advance, the need for computer engineers to design and develop new hardware and software will only increase. In addition, the rise of new industries like artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things has created even more job opportunities for computer engineers.

3. Is hardware engineering a dying field?

No, hardware engineering is not a dying field. While there may be some fluctuations in job demand due to economic factors, the need for hardware engineers will always exist as long as there is a need for electronic devices and systems. In fact, with the rise of emerging technologies like virtual reality and autonomous vehicles, the demand for hardware engineers is expected to increase.

4. What skills are necessary for success in electronic engineering?

To be successful in electronic engineering, one must have a strong foundation in mathematics and physics, as well as strong analytical and problem-solving skills. In addition, knowledge of programming languages, circuit design, and computer-aided design software is also important. Good communication and teamwork skills are also beneficial in this field.

5. Are there opportunities for advancement in computer engineering?

Yes, there are plenty of opportunities for advancement in computer engineering. With experience and further education, computer engineers can move up to higher positions such as project managers, technical leads, and even executive roles. Additionally, there are opportunities for specialization in areas such as software development, hardware design, or network engineering.

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