ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN?

How to Become an Electrical & Electronics Engineering Technician

• Answer:

  Electrical and electronics engineering technicians help research, build, test and repair electrical equipment and computer components. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS, as of May 2009, electrical and electronics engineering technicians had average hourly wages of $26.64, an equivalent of $55,410 annually for full-time work. The highest earners --- those at the 90th percentile --- earned $79,660 per year. Entry into this lucrative field normally requires a minimum of an associate degree. Difficulty: Moderately Challenging Instructions Take a full load of preparatory science and math classes in high school. Also take shop, computer technology and electronics classes. An electrical and electronics engineering technologist needs good communication skills, so include English classes as well. Enroll in an electrical and electronics engineering technology program in a technical school or community college and complete an associate degree. Choose a program with approval from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. Classes typically include digital electronics, microprocessors, math, circuit analysis and computer system technology. Classes may vary depending upon the program and on whether you specialize in electrical or electronics engineering technology. Get practical experience working as an electrical and electronics engineering technician. Your technical school, college or state may offer apprenticeship programs. For example, California offers four-year apprenticeships in electronics technology through the California Department of Industrial Relations. Other sources of internships include professional societies such as the American Society for Engineering Education, or ASEE, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, or IEEE, which you can join upon graduation. Find a permanent job through your school's placement and counseling services if an apprenticeship doesn't lead to a regular job. Other avenues of job search include federal and state labor bureaus, professional associations and trade journals. Secure advancement by gaining experience and additional education. Although you may advance to supervisor without a four-year degree, the best chances for advancement lie in completing a four-year degree in electrical and electronics engineering and advancing to engineer. Tips & Warnings Tip: Search accredited schools online on the Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology website. Warning: The BLS predicts flat job growth for electrical and electronics technicians until 2018.