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Christopher Ricci
Mrs. Lesley Richardson
ENG 114-I01
9 July 2025
The Career of Electronic Engineering Technology
Imagine a world where nothing works unless someone builds, tests, and maintains the
electronic systems inside it. From electric bikes and solar panels to smart TVs and factory robots,
electronics are the backbone of modern life. But while most people enjoy these technologies, few
understand the work behind them. That work is done by electronic engineering technologists. I
first became interested in this field during my early years working with electrical systems in
industrial settings. After over 30 years of hands-on experience, I decided to return to college and
pursue a degree in Electronics Engineering Technology to sharpen my knowledge and keep up
with modern tools and systems. Electronic engineering technology is my chosen career because
it combines problem-solving with innovation and supports my personal and professional goals.
To enter this field, most employers require at least an associate or bachelor's degree in
electronics engineering technology or a closely related field. These programs cover subjects like
circuit design, digital systems, microcontrollers, and communications systems. Zhi, Yu, and Zhao
emphasize the importance of adapting education to new technologies and teaching students’
hands-on skills needed in today’s industry. Certifications like IPC-A-610 or CompTIA A+ can
also boost job readiness (Zhi et al. 1). According to Siddiky and Akter, students benefit most
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when their education includes both theory and job preparedness training (Siddiky and Akter
421).
In addition to classroom education, internships and cooperative education programs are
incredibly beneficial. These give students the chance to apply their knowledge in real work
environments, helping them build both technical and soft skills. In my own experience, being in
the field taught me how to troubleshoot quickly, think critically, and communicate effectively
with teams. That real-world training, combined with the knowledge I’m now gaining in school,
creates a powerful mix that employers appreciate.
Salaries in this field vary based on location, education, and experience. According to the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electrical and electronics engineering
technologists and technicians was around $70,000 as of 2023. Entry-level positions may start
closer to $50,000, while more advanced roles, especially in specialized industries, can reach over
$90,000. These numbers reflect not only strong pay but also a steady job market due to the
constant demand for skilled workers who understand both the hardware and software sides of
electronics.
This career path also provides many opportunities for growth. Technologists can move into
project management roles, become senior technicians, or even cross over into engineering
positions with further education or certification. For those interested in innovation, there's
potential to work in research and development or support product design for new technologies.
Rafiana emphasizes the importance of technopreneurship, encouraging students to develop new
products or even start their own tech businesses using the skills they’ve gained (Rafiana 112).
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A typical day in this career can be both structured and dynamic. Tasks might include testing
electronic circuits, assembling prototypes, troubleshooting malfunctioning systems, or
programming microcontrollers. Communication is key, technologists must write reports, send
emails, and speak clearly with both engineers and non-technical coworkers. As Simpson, an
industry professional, shared in an interview, "What makes this job rewarding is that it never
feels the same. One day you're working in a lab, the next you're solving a real-time field issue."
(Simpson).
Depending on the job setting, technologists may work in labs, on manufacturing floors, or
even in outdoor environments. Some work in offices, assisting design teams, while others
perform hands-on maintenance in the field. This flexibility allows individuals to find a niche that
matches their preferred work style and interests. Some may prefer roles that are more data-
focused and analytical, while others thrive in positions that allow them to build and repair
physical devices.
The part of this job I expect to enjoy most is troubleshooting and system design. I enjoy
finding out why something doesn't work and fixing it or even improving it. There’s a sense of
satisfaction when theory meets practice, and the device finally does what it was meant to do. I
also like the flexibility this career provides, whether in renewable energy, automotive technology,
or manufacturing, electronics are everywhere.
The part I expect to enjoy least may be repetitive testing or overly strict documentation
requirements. While important, these tasks can feel tedious at times. However, I understand that
accuracy and standards are essential for safety and product reliability. These details matter,
especially when designing for real-world conditions.
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Professionally, this job requires clear and consistent communication. Technologists must write
technical documents, contribute to reports, and sometimes even prepare presentations for
engineers or project managers. Rafiana notes that in today’s job market, students are encouraged
to learn business communication and entrepreneurial thinking to expand their career options
(Rafiana 110). These skills help technologists explain their work and even pitch new ideas.
For those unfamiliar with the field, electronics engineering technology is about applying
practical knowledge to real-world electronic systems. Technologists often work in teams with
engineers to bring designs to life. They don’t just imagine how something works, they build it,
test it, and fix it when it breaks. According to the Light Electric Vehicle Association, advances in
transportation, automation, and renewable energy all rely heavily on the expertise of electronics
professionals (Light Electric Vehicle Association).
Another exciting development is the growing role of green energy and sustainability.
Electronics technologists are involved in building smarter, more energy-efficient systems, from
solar charge controllers to battery management systems. The demand for clean, renewable energy
systems is opening new doors in this field. According to Fry et al., while diversity in STEM
careers is still improving, new opportunities are being created for underrepresented groups in
areas like electronics, robotics, and power systems (Fry et al.).
This career fits well into my desired lifestyle. It offers variety, the chance to work with both
my hands and my mind, and the ability to stay relevant in a fast-changing world. It supports my
interests and gives me the opportunity to continue learning and contributing to meaningful
projects. After years in the field, formalizing my knowledge through education has been
energizing.
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In conclusion, electronics engineering technology is more than just a job. It is a career built
on logic, creativity, and constant learning. It allows me to bring decades of experience into a
modern world full of challenges and opportunities. For those who enjoy solving problems and
shaping the future through technology, it is an exciting and fulfilling path.
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Work Cited
Fry, Richard, Brian Kennedy, and Cary Funk. "STEM jobs see uneven progress in increasing
gender, racial and ethnic diversity." Pew Research Center 1 (2021).
Light Electric Vehicle Association. Light Electric Vehicle Association. www.levassociation.com
Rafiana, Nanda Nur. "Technopreneurship strategy to grow entrepreneurship career options for
students in higher education." ADI Journal on Recent Innovation 5.2 (2024): 110-126.
Siddiky, Md Roknuzzaman, and Shahanaz Akter. "The Students' Career Choice and Job
Preparedness Strategies: A Social Environmental Perspective." International Journal of
Evaluation and Research in Education 10.2 (2021): 421-431.
Simpson, Steve. Interview. Conducted by Christopher Ricci, 7.7 (2025)
Zhi, Yan, Yannan Yu, and Hong Zhao. "Teaching Reform and Research of Electrical Engineering
and Electronics in the Context of New Engineering Career Swallow." Open Access Library
Journal 10.12 (2023): 1-6.
