What is a Computer Engineer?
Computer engineering started as a specialization of electrical engineering before
developing into a new discipline. As initially defined, computer engineering applied
aspects of digital logic design from computer science to the creation of
microprocessors and technological systems.
As the field grew, computer engineering continued to adopt design fundamentals and
theories from computer science. Computer engineering is distinct from computer
science because it focuses on hardware and computer design.
Case Western Reserve University offered the first accredited computer engineering
program in the U.S. in 1971. As of 2024, more than 4,600 computer engineering
programs in the country hold accreditation from ABET.
What Does a Computer Engineer Do?
Computer engineers research, design, develop, and test computer systems. Some
engineers specialize in hardware or software engineering. By creating and improving
devices and programs, these technology professionals help keep the world working
safer, smarter, and faster.
Computer engineers work in many industries, including healthcare, robotics,
cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. In their daily work, they may create
information security tools, design new power grids, develop faster processors, or
build biomedical devices.
Companies and government agencies need more computer engineers as the world
grows dependent on technology, straining existing infrastructure and database
capacities. In addition to knowing how to build a program or device, certain key skills
can influence an engineer's success.
What Does a Computer Engineer Do?
Computer engineers research, design, develop, and test computer
systems. Some engineers specialize in hardware or software engineering.
By creating and improving devices and programs, these technology
professionals help keep the world working safer, smarter, and faster.
Computer engineers work in many industries, including healthcare,
robotics, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. In their daily work, they
may create information security tools, design new power grids, develop
faster processors, or build biomedical devices.
Companies and government agencies need more computer engineers as
the world grows dependent on technology, straining existing infrastructure
and database capacities. In addition to knowing how to build a program or
device, certain key skills can influence an engineer’s success.
Key Hard Skills for Computer Engineers
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Operating System Shell Scripts: A shell script contains a series of
operating commands for a UNIX-based system in a single script. Using a
shell script automates the code and removes the need for an engineer to
perform repetitive tasks.
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Field Programmable Gate Arrays: An FPGA is an integrated circuit that can
be reprogrammed after use. Engineers use these arrays to improve their
efficiency and provision in timing.
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Data Modeling: This skill helps computer engineers identify information,
know its location, and identify its application. Using effective data models,
engineers can improve their databases, reduce errors, and provide better
products.
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Kubernetes: Kubernetes deploys, scales, and analyzes container
information. This application management service can simplify an
engineer’s job.
