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How To Become A Good Embedded Software Engineer

$begingroup$ @Jon L You're definitely wrong there. While the vendor backed certificates expect you to use their own equipment an important part of them is the actual knowledge of the field to which the certificate applies and that isn't actually related to the equipment used.

Your statement is something like saying that since Ohm's law knowledge is required to get a certificate for designing PCB's for for example Altera's FPGAs, person who has the certificate only know to apply Ohm's law when working with working with them and in all other cases magically forgets it. $endgroup$–Nov 10 '11 at 9:32. $begingroup$ @AndrejaKo, CompTIA A+ is certainly valid and my comment was not directed towards certifications like that. The OP listed vendors in his question.

Had he mentioned A+ I would not have made that comment. We don't have vendor specific certifications because any capable designer is able to read a datasheet from any vendor and choose what will work best for their application. Vendor certifications works well in IT because it is common for a company to buy an entire proven solution from 1 or 2 vendors to simplify their network deployment. This would not be favourable in embedded systems. $endgroup$–Nov 10 '11 at 17:36. No, not really.

There are some courses you can take, but as a interviewer, I really wouldn't care. In fact, if someone came to a interview and proudly showed some certificate about having complete a course, I'd immediately suspect he doesn't know anything. Of coures I'll find out soon enough for sure after asking a few questions. It's about what you can do, how you think about things, and what you know. I don't care how that got into your head, only that it did.That all said, I do look at education level. I have found from experience that the best embedded engineers have a masters degree in EE. I don't think their better performance is about the extra education, but about the attitude that caused them to seek the higher degree in the first place.

At the BS level you still find candidates that got there just by going thru the motions. Some of these may get good grades, which only shows how little grades mean. Instead of learning electronics and developing some good intuitions and accumulating a few design practises, they have learned how to answer test questions well. Obviously they don't make good EEs. By the masters level, these people have been weeded out.So the bottom line is, BS EE is a must, and masters EE will put your resume to the top of the pile. If you list lots of other certifications you just make yourself look like a weenie and I wouldn't know what all that alphabet soup means anyway. Currently there exist no formal certifications that a person can attain in Embedded Systems, like there are for Network Engineering professionals.The best equivalent study or credits, you can attain, that I am aware of are: CEU's or Continuing Education Units, which is recognized method (in the U.S) of quantifying the time spent in a classroom during professional development and training activities.Ten hours of instruction equal to 1 CEU.See more information on CEU's:Good Embedded Courses that I am aware of are:.

Jack Ganssle's - How to Develop Better Firmware faster. For moreinformation see. Michael Barr's Embedded Software Boot Camp. More information on thisbelow:In addition to this, it always good to examine your motivation for wanting to do a particular course/certification.

If the aim is to become a top Embedded Engineer, there is no substitute for a Bachelor's Engineering degree combined with practical experience. I believe the combination of the two, coupled with a passion for Embedded Systems in general, will give you the best platform going forward if you want to build a career doing Embedded Systems Development.Finally, if you can, get a development board with a microcontroller and some peripherals and play with it. $begingroup$ @Connor: First, you are arguing against something Brian didn't say. His first sentence is correct whether a few have only HS diplomas or not. Second, I have run into those. They are usually remarkable at solving basic problems but suck at the theory, which is a serious handicap when a problem shows up that requires some real analisys. You can have one person like that in a larger group maybe, but in a small company or small group you need people that know stuff in addition to being able to use it.

$endgroup$–Mar 27 '13 at 13:11. To start with, we must consider the difference between a certificate and a certification. Certificates are pieces of paper that may be offered for simply sitting through a course. Few of them mean much. Certifications sometimes means a bit more, such as passing an examination after taking some training. But note that a certification is only as good as the organization that offers it - many of them are worth very little. The most important question is whether there is something that employers recognize and value - I suspect not at the moment for embedded systems short of a college degree in a computing or engineering field.In terms of certifications outside of the college realm, I know of nothing in the embedded systems area that satisfies the rigorous international standards for certification programs (such as exist for things like the IEEE-CS's CSDP or the American Society for Quality's Certified SW Development Professional or various medical board certifications).Let's consider what is out there.

How To Become A Good Embedded Software Engineer Salary

There are many tool-specific certifications, a number of certificate programs offered by universities, and there are rumors that some of the professional societies may be getting into the act (for example, IEEE Computer Society).I'd be careful to research who is doing the certifying and what standards they live up to before spending a lot of time and/or money.And, by the way, quite a few embedded system developers these days are software development professionals. It isn't just for EE's any more.

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Computer engineering exists at the intersection of technology and innovation. A dynamic professional field, computer engineering offers varied career paths in both hardware engineering (e.g. Microprocessors) and software development—each which drive computing advances in industries ranging from aerospace to healthcare. The following guide provides a high-level overview of computer engineering, including a look at different degree and career paths, related skills and technologies, earning potential and employment outlook. Computer Engineering BasicsComputer engineering blends together computer science and electrical engineering to further advancements in digital technology, computer networking and computer systems. In turn, computer engineers use their extensive knowledge of hardware and software design and computer programming to make computing platforms and applications more efficient and effective.

Seamlessly integrating the latest innovations, computer engineers develop new computer hardware, design and implement software applications, and enhance the capabilities of networks and communications systems. Computer Engineering In-DepthComputer engineers work with hardware and software, ensuring that the two are seamlessly integrated and functioning properly. Computer engineers focus on innovation—making computing systems safer, faster and morepowerful. At the career level, there are two main avenues: hardware andsoftware engineering. Hardware engineers focus their skills on computer systemsand components, designing microprocessors, circuit boards, routers and otherembedded devices. On the software side, these engineers create, test and debugprograms and applications that run on computers, mobile devices and more.Just as there are countless apps, software programs and computers that function for specific tasks, there are just as many career options for those who wish to enter the computer engineering profession.

From robotics to wireless networks, and operating systems to aircraft design, there is a specialization for any interest. Example employers for computer engineers include research laboratories, technology manufacturers, semiconductor companies, and digital consulting firms. Learning how to become a computer engineer is the first step toward earning a more-than-comfortable salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for this profession was $108,430 in 2014, but the top-earners make more than $160,000. Salaries vary between regions and industries. Scientific research pays a more modest wage, while computer equipment manufacturing is more lucrative.

Career FieldMedian SalaryComputer Hardware Engineer$108,430Software Engineer, Applications$95,510Software Engineer, Systems Software$102,880. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes more innovation is occurring in software development and career growth for hardware engineers is only projected to reach 7 percent nationally between 2012 and 2022. On the other hand, software engineering careers are expected to grow by 22 percent nationally at the same time, far outpacing the national average for all occupations. The factors responsible for this growth?

Emerging industries, massive capital investments by venture capitalists in technology start-ups, and the growing demand on mobile technology. Computer engineers with a master's degree or higher should have the best prospects. 1.17% Average Annual Job Growth 40 Annual Job Openings Steps to Becoming a Computer EngineerWith a growing, insatiable desire for technological advancements—both by businesses and consumers alike—the need for trained, skilled and qualified computer engineering professionals seems to know no bounds. Becoming a computer engineer requires an extensive college education that can take from four to seven years to complete. In the first two years of a bachelor’s degree program, students typically finish computer engineering prerequisites and general education courses.

The last two years focus on foundational classes in computer science, electrical engineering and mathematics. Students typically study software, hardware, networking and security. Many employers prefer engineers with advanced degrees, which means two more years of master’s degree work to qualify for those jobs. Finally, if professional goals include applied research or a career in academia, a PhD in computer engineering may be the answer. For students who desire a direct entry training program or cannot attend a four-year program initially, then an associate degree program in computer science or related IT field of study at a community college or trade school can be a solid first step.

Some community college students can save on tuition while completing their general education requirements, because tuition at these schools is sometimes more affordable than at four-year schools. In addition, students should ensure the courses they complete in their two-year associate degree program will transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree program. Typically, most employers expect software engineering professionals to have at least a bachelor’s degree, while companies hiring hardware engineers traditionally seek applicants that hold a master’s degree. Bachelor’s degree programs allow students to complete a comprehensive education in while concentrating their studies in either hardware or software specializations. For example, an electrical engineering program with an emphasis in computer engineering is appropriate if you want to work with microprocessors and high-speed circuitry. For those considering a career in software engineering, they may want to pursue a general computer engineering degree or a software engineering degree. Other applicable undergraduate majors include mathematics and computer science.

When choosing a program, be sure it is certified by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). While graduates may find an entry-level software engineering job with a bachelor’s degree, better-paying positions and software management jobs typically call for a master’s degree. Hardware engineers usually return to college for post-graduate work. Those who want to rise to leadership or management roles pursue masters of business administration (MBA) degrees with a technology focus. Pay increases are often pegged to ongoing education, and engineers are inquisitive enough to want to stay abreast of technological advances. In many cases, your employer may contribute to ongoing education fees. A doctorate can be an advantageous degree for engineers who want to teach at the university level or conduct advanced research at a university-sponsored laboratory.

Engineers with a PhD in information technology can advance to management workplace roles such as IT strategist, chief technology officer or chief information officer. Computer engineers can work as general problem solvers or they can focus on one aspect of their career. For hardware professionals, continuing education in software development can be beneficial and vice versa. As the fields are continually evolving, job candidates will want to go where the opportunities exist. Specialize, but remain nimble. Some corporations may demand employees pursue advanced certifications in hardware or software systems offered by vendors. Certification exams are offered to benchmark skills for a prospective employer or advance in the company.

They can be an essential part of the job search arsenal. Popular certification categories include Microsoft Systems Administration (MCSA), Cisco Network (Wireless and Voice), Project Management and VM Ware. Computer Engineering Degree OptionsComputer engineering degrees are available in both campus and and range from two-year associate degree programs to advanced graduate study at the doctoral level. Instruction varies from the career-specific–such as an associate degree in electronics technology–to research-focused PhD programs in digital signal processing.

Each academic step offers students the opportunity to not only enhance their existing skill sets, but also develop knowledge and skills in new or more specialized areas. Below is an overview of the major types of computer engineering degrees. Associate DegreesAt the associate degree level, prospective students can select from two educational paths: Electronics and Computer Technology or Pre-Engineering with a Computer and Electrical Engineering emphasis. An associate in electronics and computer technology offers career-focused curriculum that allows students to either continue their studies at the bachelor's degree level or pursue entry-level employment opportunities after graduation.

A pre-engineering degree, on the other hand, is aimed at students seeking to transfer to a four-year university to complete a bachelor's degree in computer engineering. Both options are designed to introduce students to fundamental principles in computer engineering and electronics design, including programming, communications and networking, electronic systems, computer hardware and software, electronic systems, instrumentation, and maintenance and repair. For example, students may take classes in subjects such as computer architecture, object-oriented programming, circuit theory, networking and Internet technologies, and digital electronics. These programs can be completed in two to three years and typically require between 65 and 72 credit hours to graduate, depending on the school and program. Bachelor’s DegreesThere are multiple degree formats at the bachelor's degree level, including the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering (BSCSE), the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (BSCE), and the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology (BSCET). Although curriculum varies by program type, each features a balanced approach to the study of computer engineering with an emphasis on the design, integration, and support of computer hardware, software, and network systems. Typically requiring between 120 and 128 semester credits to complete, the curriculum is divided between general education and computer engineering classes.

Broadly, students develop foundational technical skills by studying programming languages, databases, computer and network architecture, and electro-mechanical systems. Examples of specific areas of study include systems software, digital integrated circuit design, microcomputer systems, and electrical and computer engineering design.

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Some colleges allow students to individualize their studies through program concentrations in software, hardware, and related fields such as robotics, Web technologies, information assurance, and Web design. Master’s DegreesThe master's degree in computer engineering is designed to prepare students for further studies at the doctoral level or for career advancement. Master's programs are available in both on-campus and online variants (check out this ranking of the ). Depending on their professional and educational goals, students may select from Master of Science in Computer Engineering or a Master of Engineering in Computer Engineering.

How To Become A Good Embedded Software Engineer Chicago

Broadly, the Master of Science degree is a research-based program of study, requiring students to complete independent research that culminates with a thesis project. The Master of Engineering is a professionally focused program of study, one aimed at allowing students to explore professional interests both within and outside of computer engineering. However, both types of master's degrees include rigorous curriculum and allows students to concentrate their program in specialized areas such as hardware and computer architecture, computer communications and networks, software, cybersecurity, VSLI design and computer-aided design, or energy systems, to name a few.

Students typically must complete between 30 and 33 semester credits to graduate, which usually equates to approximately two years of full-time study. Doctoral DegreesDoctoral studies in computer engineering prepare students to pursue careers in applied research, academia, private industry, and the government. In addition to completing master's degree requirements, prospective PhD candidates must also complete an additional 32 to 36 semester credits to graduate. Areas of study are traditionally determined by student interest and faculty research areas and may cover a multitude of aspects in computing theory, software, hardware, and computing applications. Research examples range from nanotechnology to bioelectrical engineering, mobile computing to bioinformatics. Earning a Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering traditionally culminates with a research examination, comprehensive examinations, a dissertation, and successful defense of the dissertation before a graduate committee. PhD Level Skills.

Problem SolvingPhD students should be adept at integrating their advanced expertise with new knowledge in order to solve complex engineering problems whether in computer hardware or software engineering. Online Computer Engineering Degrees and SchoolsOnline learning affords students a convenient way to complete a computer engineering degree. Through online programs, students can gain industry-specific skills and prepare themselves for real world professional success.

The major benefit for most students considering an online program is convenience. However, not all online degree programs are equal. Below are three factors students should keep in mind when researching online degree programs in this field. Prospective students can also check out this. ABET AccreditationThe Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc.

(ABET) is the central accrediting body for computer engineering programs. Students should ensure their selected program is accredited by ABET to ensure quality. ABET reviews multiple criteria of computer engineering programs, including curriculum, student performance, student outcomes, faculty, facilities, and resources. Accreditation is a primary indicator of quality and value. It demonstrates that the program adheres to nationally recognized standards and produces graduates that are prepared for career success.

How To Become A Good Embedded Software Engineer

Faculty Experience and Professional BackgroundThe quality of a program and subsequent student success is determined largely by the caliber of the department’s faculty and instructors. For computer engineering programs, especially online programs, student should review each faculty member’s background, education, and professional experience. Because of the breadth of specializations within this field, students should seek out programs where faculty members have real world or research experience in their field of interest (e.g. Nanotechnology, software engineering, embedded systems, etc.). Specializations and Breadth of InstructionThe goal of completing a computer engineering degree is to equip the graduate with skills that align to the specific needs of today’s technology industries. Prospective students should review the curriculum of each potential program to ensure they are provided with fundamental instruction in both electrical engineering and computer science.

Secondly, students should examine the progression of learning. Are they introduced to both the software and hardware aspects of computer systems? Is there strong emphasis on hands-on learning activities in a laboratory or through student-led engineering projects? Can students concentrate their efforts in a particular area of study, such as embedded digital systems, personal computers, or networking? Components of a Successful Careeras a Computer Engineer.

How To Be An Embedded Software Engineer

Computer Engineering SkillsAccording to the National Workforce Center for Emerging Technologies, computer engineers should have a blend of soft, employability skills in addition to technical knowledge. These soft skills include critical thinking, communication, and project and time management. Computer engineers should be detail-oriented, analytical, excellent problems solvers, and able to identify, analyze and craft solutions to complex problems. As a cross-functional position, computer engineering requires individuals be strong communicators, and able to work closely with other colleagues and clients. Because of the ever-evolving nature of technology, computer engineers should pursue professional development in their area of concentration, whether it is biomedical engineering or automotive engineering. Computer Engineering CredentialsProfessional certifications and credentials in computer engineering complement and build upon the knowledge and skills developed during a degree program. The intent of advanced credentials is to demonstrate technical proficiency in a certain aspect of the computer engineering profession.

Generally speaking, there are three types of computer engineering certifications: Vendor-specific, vendor-neutral (third-party) and general. Below are examples of each type of certification. Cisco Certified Network Professional Wireless (CCNP Wireless)Sponsored by Cisco, the CCNPN Wireless designation demonstrates the technical expertise of professionals in wireless networking principles, design, implementation, installation and operation. The certification consists of four examinations: implementing Cisco Unified wireless networks, implementing Cisco United wireless mobility services, implementing advanced Cisco Unified wireless security and conducting Cisco Unified wireless site survey. Computer Engineering Tools and TechnologyComputer engineers should possess a professional toolbox that contains both technical and soft skills. Major knowledge areas in the field include engineering technologies, mathematics, networking, computer programming, computers and electronics, and product development.

Technical knowledge includes the use of a range of tools and software including the following: Circuit TestingCircuit memory tester, logic analyzers, digital analysis systemsMeasurementLogic probes, probe stationsNetwork analysisTraffic generators, communications analyzersSignal generationPattern generators, function generators, universal source generatorsAnalytical SoftwareCadence Dracula, SAS SoftwareComputer-Aided Design SoftwareAllegro software, Cadence ConceptDevelopment Environment SoftwareMicrosoft Visual Basic, C, SystemVerilogOperating System SoftwareLinux, UNIX. Education and Training:Bachelor's Degree What do similar computer careers make?Although each computer engineering profession differs in daily responsibilities, each converges around a single principle: improving, creating and advancing computing technologies. For example, computer systems analysts and computer support specialists both focus on solutions—the computer systems analysts concerned with developing information technology solutions, while the computer support specialist deals with software and equipment solutions for clients, customers and organizations. Indeed, there are numerous related computer engineering career paths that offer both strong employment and earning potential.