Module 1 - Becoming a Computer Engineer

What’s a Computer Engineer? 2. Versatility: Computer Engineering combines

elements of both electrical engineering and
• Computer Engineers have many titles: computer science, giving you a broad skill set that
o Engineer can be applied in various fields such as software
o Development Engineer development, hardware design, networking, and
o Computer Architect more.

• All computer engineers research, design, develop, 3. Innovation: If you love innovation and
and test computer hardware and oversee its technology, Computer Engineering is the perfect
manufacture and installation. field. You'll be at the forefront of developing new
technologies and solutions that can change the
world.
It’s Origins
4. Problem-Solving: This course hones your
The Unknown Energy problem-solving skills. You'll learn to tackle
complex issues and come up with efficient
• The evolution of technology itself all started out solutions, which is a valuable skill in any
with: Benjamin Franklin, Alessandro Volta, and profession.
Luigi Galvani in the 1700s.
• They all Theorized and experimented 5. Lucrative Salaries: Computer engineers often
enjoy competitive salaries. The combination of
It’s Origins – Electricity (1/2) high demand and specialized skills means that
companies are willing to pay well for your
• Heinrich Rudolf Hertz detected electric waves expertise.
in1886.
• Guglielmo Marconi used these waves to produce 6. Global Opportunities: With a degree in
the first radio signaling system Computer Engineering, you can work anywhere
• Charles Wheatstone and Samuel F.B. Morse had in the world. The skills you acquire are
created electrical communication universally applicable, opening doors to
• Led to telegraph network lines international career opportunities.

The Transistor 7. Continuous Learning: Technology is always

evolving, and as a computer engineer, you'll have
• The transistor amplified electrical currents and the chance to continuously learn and grow. This
was better than vacuum tubes. keeps the job exciting and ensures you're always
• Vacuum tubes were electron tubes used before at the cutting edge of technology.
the transistor
8. Impact: Computer engineers have the potential
Integrated Circuit and First Computer to make a significant impact on society. Whether
it's through developing new software, improving
• Inventors started putting the transistors on chips cybersecurity, or creating innovative hardware,
and eventually created the first integrated circuit your work can make a difference.
• The first computer was the ENIAC.

Alan Turing Technical and Soft Skills

1. Programming Languages: Proficiency in

• Wanted to use computers for a lot more than just
languages like C++, Java, Python, and others is
solving difficult math problems
essential for developing software and
• Said computers could act like humans
understanding hardware-software integration.
The Microprocessor
2. Mathematics: Strong mathematical skills,
particularly in areas like calculus, algebra, and
• In 1971, Intel Corporation invented the
statistics, are crucial for problem-solving and
microprocessor
algorithm development.
• First big step toward videogames and
microcomputers
3. Circuit Design: Knowledge of digital and analog
• Later Apple invented the microcomputer circuit design is important for creating and
understanding hardware components.
Why Computer Engineering?
4. Problem-Solving: The ability to analyze complex
problems and develop efficient solutions is a core
1. High Demand: The tech industry is booming, and
skill for any engineer.
there's a constant demand for skilled computer
engineers. This means plenty of job opportunities
and career stability.
5. Communication: Effective communication skills 10. DevOps Engineer: Bridges the gap between
are necessary for collaborating with team development and operations, automating
members, writing reports, and explaining processes and improving collaboration.
technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
11. IT Consultant: Provides expert advice to
6. Project Management: Understanding project organizations on how to use technology to achieve
management principles helps in planning, their goals.
executing, and overseeing engineering projects.
12. Research Scientist: Conducts research to
7. Attention to Detail: Precision is key in advance knowledge in computer engineering and
engineering to ensure that designs and code are develop new technologies
error-free and function as intended.

8. Continuous Learning: The tech field is always

evolving, so a commitment to continuous learning
and staying updated with the latest technologies
and trends is essential.

9. Teamwork: Working well in a team is important

as engineering projects often require
collaboration with other engineers, designers,
and professionals.

10. Creativity: Innovative thinking can lead to the

development of new technologies and solutions.

Career Path

1. Software Engineer: Develops and maintains

software applications, systems, and platforms.

2. Hardware Engineer: Designs and tests computer

hardware components like processors, circuit
boards, and memory devices.

3. Network Engineer: Manages and designs

network infrastructure, ensuring efficient and
secure data communication.

4. Systems Engineer: Integrates and manages

complex systems, ensuring they work together
seamlessly.

5. Embedded Systems Engineer: Develops

software and hardware for embedded systems
found in devices like smartphones, cars, and
medical equipment.

6. Cybersecurity Engineer: Protects systems and

networks from cyber threats by implementing
security measures and protocols.

7. Data Engineer: Designs and manages data

infrastructure, ensuring data is accessible,
reliable, and secure.

8. AI/Machine Learning Engineer: Develops

algorithms and models for artificial intelligence
and machine learning applications.

9. Cloud Engineer: Manages cloud infrastructure

and services, ensuring scalability, security, and
efficiency.