Computer Engineer

What is it?

Computer engineers combine expertise in both Electronic Engineering and Computer Science that is based on an understanding and respect for both hardware and software.  Computer engineers do everything from creating Microprocessors to individual computer systems design, to integrated circuit design.  A Computer Engineer works on the small scale, for the most part, but understands how their work fits into the bigger picture to produce better results.

How is IT involved?

Information Technology is in every part of a Computer Engineer's job.  Their work on hardware demands a high technical level of knowledge about circuitry and electronics, and their work on systems and software demand a broad knowledge of computing as well as communications.

Where can I see it?

The Computer Engineer works on a daily basis to provide end users with better, faster, stronger and easier-to-use computer products.  They design computer hardware for use in PCs, and servers, and even portable computing devices, and they also design the software and code that is necessary for their everyday use.

A good example of Computer Engineering at work is in the difference between different types of personal computers.  The parts that are inside your computer may look identical to those in another one, but sometimes the difference is too vast to even comprehend, from the way that messages are received and transmitted, to the way that data is stored, to the way that file system access is granted.  All of these differ depending on the type of computer you own, and without computer engineers, we would have none of it.

How can I be a part of it?

Computer Engineers have a strong interest in Hardware and Software problems, as well as quick analytical minds.  A Computer Engineer also needs training in math, physics and engineering processes as well, in order to perform at their best.  People who enjoy computers and language work, as well as problem solving will excel in Computer Engineering.

What else might I like?

Computer Engineers work closely with Application and Software Developers as well as Systems Analysts.

Where can I find out more?

Wikipedia:  Computer Engineer

Career Cornerstone article on Computer Engineering