Nearly every electrical engineer will need expert knowledge of electrical systems and circuitry, as well as computer-aided design (CAD) software in their work–and to advance into senior or managerial roles.

Electrical engineers design, maintain, and improve electrical equipment, products, and tools. Careers can span a range of industries including utilities, telecommunications, federal government, transportation, technology, military/defense, and more. All impact public health, safety, and welfare. Most use math and science to effectively analyze and design systems, equipment, products, and components. According to payscale.com, the median annual salary in 2014 for an electrical engineer in the United States was $69,367.

Electrical engineering is a technical career path in which mathematics and systems knowledge are a very real part of day-to-day work. Accurate calculations are necessary as mistakes can endanger public health and safety, in addition to being costly and time-consuming to remedy. Education is a key component of a successful career in electrical engineering.

The vast majority of entry-level electrical engineering jobs require a bachelor's degree from a four-year Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)-accredited program. ABET is a non-profit agency that evaluates academic engineering programs to ensure they meet educational standards for the electrical engineering profession. Employers demand well-trained, qualified engineers who can work in both traditional and emerging technologies.

Many states require licensure for electrical engineers in certain fields. More specifically, most states don't allow people to indicate they are an electrical engineer unless they are registered professional engineers (though they can include, a business card reference to an "Electrical Engineering Department" as applicable).

College graduates are qualified to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Electrical and Computer Examination given by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering (NCEES). Passing the FE exam enables a graduate to refer to him- or herself as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT).

• Using EIT after passing the FE exam is the way to let colleagues and employers know you've passed the FE exam.
• Taking the exam while the material is familiar thanks to a recently-completed academic program is a great strategy–however, Professional Publications, Inc. (PPI) has comprehensive review materials to help pass the FE Electrical and Computer exam at any time.

Pursuing a Professional Engineer (PE) license demonstrates a commitment to public safety that can often lead to job growth, leadership, and income potential. In many cases, only a licensed PE has the authority to take legal responsibility for engineering work or projects by signing or approving technical documentation such as plans, drawings, analysis reports, and calculations. Other positions require a PE license for qualification to manage or supervise certain design, servicing, or analysis of engineering projects.

Put simply, in an increasingly competitive job market–licensure can provide more opportunities and employers value professionals who are licensed.

In addition to offering comprehensive exam review materials for the Electrical FE and PE exams , PPI offers a robust FAQs resource to help guide engineers through their licensure.