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When Thomas Edison introduced the incandescent light bulb in the late 19th century, he must have had you in mind. Because without his ingenuity, how would you be on your way to a bright career in electrical engineering? AC or DC?
If electrical engineering gives you a charge, electrical engineering schools will help you route that passion. In this profession, you'll help design, develop, test, and manufacture electrical equipment such as communication equipment; radar, industrial, and medical monitoring or control devices; navigational equipment; and computers. Electrical engineering schools will also prepare you to work in product evaluation and testing, using measuring and diagnostic devices to adjust, test, and repair equipment.Or, perhaps you're better suited to a career as an electrician. As an electrician, you'll install, connect, test, and maintain electrical systems for purposes such as climate control, security, and communications. You may also install and maintain the electronic controls for machines in business and industry. Get Juiced
Either way, training at electrical engineering schools is essential, since employers typically start graduates at a more advanced level than those without training. Look for schools that offer a two-year associate degree program in electrical engineering, and that are accredited by the Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). About 230 colleges offer ABET-accredited programs in electrical engineering, which typically include courses in algebra, trigonometry, general science, electrical circuits, microprocessors, electrical theory, installing and maintaining electrical systems, blueprint reading, electrical code requirements, safety and first aid practices, soldering, fire alarm systems, and cranes and elevators. Once you've graduated from one of these electrical engineering schools, certification may provide another competitive advantage. Voluntary certification from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies is available at various levels. Each level combines a written exam in one of about 30 specialties with job-related experience, a supervisory evaluation, and a recommendation. In addition, to be an electrician, you'll need a license. That requires you to pass an exam on electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, and local electric and building codes. High Voltage
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electrical engineering technicians held 182,000 jobs in 2004; in May 2004, median annual earnings for these professionals were $46,310, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $67,900. For the electrician, 656,000 jobs were filled in 2004, and median hourly earnings were $20.33, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $33.63. Whichever route you choose, electrical engineering schools are sure to illuminate your career path.
About the author:
Robyn Tellefsen is a frequent contributor to The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.
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