What Can You Do With an Electrical Engineering Degree in 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What are common specializations in electrical engineering?

Common specializations in electrical engineering include a variety of focused fields that address different aspects of electrical and electronic systems. These specializations can also help complete a trade school program or affordable online HVAC certifications. Here are some of the most common and widely recognized specializations:

• Control Systems: Focuses on designing and managing systems for controlling dynamic processes, often used in manufacturing, robotics, and automation.
• Communication and Signal Processing Systems: Involves the transmission, reception, and processing of signals, including telecommunications and data communications.
• Power Systems: Covers generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power, including renewable energy systems and power grid management.
• Computer Engineering: Combines electrical engineering with computer science, emphasizing hardware and software integration, embedded systems, and computer architecture.
• Electrophysics: Bridges the gap between physics and electrical engineering, focusing on applying physics principles to design electrical systems.
• Electromagnetics: Studies electromagnetic fields and their applications in antenna design, microwave engineering, and radio wave propagation.
• Microelectronics: Deals with designing and fabricating small electronic circuits and semiconductor devices.

What technical skills will I gain from an electrical engineering degree?

With an electrical engineering degree, you will gain a broad range of technical skills essential for designing, analyzing, and managing electrical and electronic systems.

Many students who first explore how to become an electrician later find that pursuing electrical engineering allows them to expand those same foundational skills into higher-level applications, opening the door to leadership roles, advanced design work, and broader career opportunities.

These analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills can also be highly transferable to other fields. For example, professionals interested in public safety or disaster preparedness may leverage this technical expertise to explore what can you do with a master's degree in emergency management, applying system analysis and optimization skills to emergency response planning, infrastructure resilience, and crisis management.

• Electrical Circuit Design and Analysis: Understanding and designing analog, digital, and mixed-signal circuits is fundamental, including knowledge of voltage, current, resistance, and laws such as Ohm’s and Kirchhoff’s.
• Control Systems: Skills in modeling, designing, and optimizing control systems, including feedback and open-loop systems used in robotics, automation, and power systems.
• Power Systems: Designing and optimizing power generation, transmission, distribution systems, and renewable energy technologies.
• Digital Signal Processing: Ability to design and optimize communication, audio, video, and biomedical signal processing systems.
• Electronics: Designing electronic circuits for power electronics, signal processing, control systems, and instrumentation.
• Programming and Software Skills: Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, and MATLAB, and experience with electrical circuit simulation and design software (SPICE, PSIM, PSCAD).

How important are communication and teamwork skills in electrical engineering?

Communication and teamwork skills are critically important in Electrical Engineering because they directly impact the success of engineering projects and career advancement. Electrical engineers rarely work in isolation; the complexity of modern engineering tasks demands collaboration among diverse teams, including fellow engineers, project managers, clients, and stakeholders from various fields. 

Effective communication—both verbal and written—is essential for clearly conveying ideas, sharing information, and resolving problems promptly. For example, engineers must be adept at drafting reports, emails, and presentations to document decisions and progress accurately.

Moreover, teamwork enhances problem-solving by bringing together different perspectives and expertise, thereby fostering innovation and improving project outcomes. Strong collaboration also supports better project management through seamless coordination and timely execution of tasks. 

Ineffective communication, on the other hand, can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and tension within the team, which can jeopardize project success. Consequently, communication and teamwork skills are regarded as fundamental competencies that complement technical expertise, enabling electrical engineers to work efficiently, lead teams, and contribute meaningfully to their organizations and projects.

These skills can also be useful to learn when studying affordable maintenance technician programs online or other HVAC certification programs.

What are the top career paths after an electrical engineering degree?

Electrical engineering is a broad field with many specializations, leading to a wide variety of career paths. The top career paths often align with the main subfields of electrical engineering, including power, electronics, and telecommunications. These jobs are found in nearly every industry, from consumer electronics and energy to aerospace and healthcare.

Additionally, with the increasing convergence of IT and electrical engineering, graduates often explore what jobs can you get with cloud computing, such as cloud infrastructure engineer, network architect, or systems analyst, which combine knowledge of electrical systems with cloud technologies.

Power Systems Engineering

Power systems engineers are at the core of the energy sector. They design, develop, and maintain the systems that generate, transmit, and distribute electricity. This includes everything from large-scale power grids and renewable energy systems (like solar and wind farms) to the electrical systems within a building. This field is crucial for modern society and is evolving with the increasing demand for sustainable energy.

Electronics and Microelectronics

This is a highly dynamic and innovative field focused on designing, developing, and testing electronic devices and circuits.  Electronics engineers work on everything from tiny microchips and processors to consumer electronics like smartphones and computers. This path is ideal for those interested in hardware design, semiconductor manufacturing, and the development of new electronic gadgets.

Control Systems Engineering

Control systems engineers create the "brains" that make a system behave in a desired way. They design, implement, and manage automated systems for various applications. This career path is vital in industries like robotics, aerospace, manufacturing, and automotive, where precision and automation are key. A control systems engineer might work on a robot arm on an assembly line or the navigation system of an autonomous vehicle.

Telecommunications Engineering

Telecommunications engineers focus on the transmission of information over various media, including cables, fiber optics, and wireless signals. This field is essential for our connected world. Career opportunities include designing cellular networks, satellite systems, and communication platforms that enable everything from phone calls to high-speed internet.

What is the average salary for electrical engineering graduates?

The average electric lineman salary in the United States as of 2025 is between $89,000 and $111,091 per year, which breaks down to about $53.41 per hour. Salary can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, level of experience, and skill set.

Entry-level electrical engineers can expect to start around $75,700 annually, while those with several years of experience typically see salaries approaching $105,000 or more. Top earners in the field can make upwards of $167,000 a year.

While both careers offer strong earning potential, linemen often benefit from high hourly wages and overtime opportunities, whereas electrical engineers see more variation depending on industry specialization. Overall, electrical engineering salaries are competitive, reflecting the technical expertise and specialized skills required in this profession.

Which industries hire electrical engineering graduates the most?

Electrical engineering graduates are in high demand across a wide range of industries, but a few stand out as the largest employers. The top industries that hire electrical engineers the most are:

Energy and Power

The energy sector is a major employer of electrical engineers. This industry includes traditional power generation, transmission, and distribution, as well as the rapidly growing field of renewable energy. Graduates can find roles at utility companies, firms that design power grids, and companies specializing in solar, wind, and hydropower. The transition to a more sustainable energy infrastructure is driving significant demand for electrical engineers who can design and manage these complex systems.

Semiconductors and Electronics Manufacturing

This is a core industry for electrical engineers, as they design and develop the very components that power all modern technology. Engineers in this field create the microchips, integrated circuits, and processors that are essential for everything from smartphones and computers to medical devices and vehicles. Major players in this industry, such as Intel, Texas Instruments, and Qualcomm, are always looking for skilled electrical engineers to push the boundaries of technology.

Telecommunications

As the world becomes more connected, the telecommunications industry's need for electrical engineers continues to grow. These professionals are responsible for designing and maintaining the infrastructure that enables communication. This includes cellular networks, satellite systems, and fiber-optic networks. Companies like AT&T, Verizon, and Cisco frequently hire electrical engineers to work on signal processing, network design, and wireless communication technologies.

Aerospace and Defense

The aerospace and defense sectors heavily rely on electrical engineers for their complex, high-stakes projects. Engineers in this field design and develop the electrical systems for aircraft, satellites, and various defense technologies. Companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman are key employers, with roles that involve working on avionics, radar systems, and embedded control systems.

For engineers looking to expand into leadership or project management roles, pursuing advanced education is a natural next step. Understanding what can you do with a master's degree in engineering management highlights that graduates can move beyond technical responsibilities into positions overseeing engineering teams, managing large-scale projects, and coordinating cross-functional operations—roles that are especially valuable in complex industries like energy, aerospace, and telecommunications.

What are the latest technological trends in electrical engineering?

The latest technological trends in Electrical Engineering for 2025 are centered around automation, sustainability, smart systems, and connectivity. One of the most significant trends is the rise of smart grids, which enable more efficient electricity transmission, quick restoration after outages, integration of renewable energy, and improved consumer control over energy use.

These advancements also highlight the growing collaboration between technical experts and operational leaders. For example, understanding what does a supply chain manager do helps illustrate how supply chain professionals ensure that the materials, components, and technologies electrical engineers design are delivered where they’re needed most, keeping innovation moving forward.

The electric vehicle (EV) industry is also rapidly expanding, with engineers working on advanced battery technologies, smart charging networks, wireless power transfer, and vehicle-to-grid systems to support sustainable transportation. Automation and AI-driven smart systems, including sensors and robotics, are revolutionizing industries by enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Additionally, the Internet of Things (IoT) is driving interconnected devices, requiring electrical engineers to design and optimize complex systems.

Other trends include increasing adoption of renewable energy solutions, advancements in energy storage, and a stronger focus on diversity and inclusion in the engineering workforce. These developments highlight the growing importance of electrical engineering in shaping a greener, smarter, and more connected future across multiple sectors.

What certifications enhance career growth in electrical engineering?

Certifications are an excellent way for electrical engineers to specialize in their skills and demonstrate expertise, which can lead to significant career advancement. The most impactful certifications generally fall into three categories: professional licensure, industry-specific credentials, and project management.

• Certified Energy Manager (CEM): For engineers in the energy and power sector, the CEM certification from the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) is highly valued. It shows expertise in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable practices.
• Certified Automation Professional (CAP): The International Society of Automation (ISA) offers the CAP certification for engineers specializing in control systems and automation. This is particularly useful for those working in manufacturing, robotics, and industrial processes.
• Certified Electrical Safety Compliance Professional (CESCP): The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides this certification, which is crucial for engineers focused on electrical safety in the workplace. It demonstrates a deep understanding of safety standards like the NFPA 70E.
• Project Management Professional (PMP): The PMP certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI) is globally recognized. It proves an engineer's ability to lead and manage projects effectively, on time, and within budget, a skill highly sought after in senior engineering and project lead positions.
• Professional Engineer (PE) License: The Professional Engineer (PE) license is the most prestigious and widely recognized credential for electrical engineers. While not required for every role, it's essential for engineers who sign off on projects, work with the public, or manage other engineers.

How does research experience benefit an electrical engineering career?

Research experience benefits an Electrical Engineering career in several important ways. It provides deeper and specialized knowledge in specific fields such as power systems, telecommunications, AI, or renewable energy, which can establish you as an expert in a niche area.

This also opens opportunities to further your education by enrolling in some of the fastest online artificial intelligence degree programs. Engaging in research cultivates critical skills like advanced problem-solving, analytical thinking, experimentation, and scientific writing, all of which enhance your ability to innovate and develop cutting-edge technologies. 

Additionally, research fosters the ability to contribute to technological advancements that have real-world applications, positioning you to influence industry developments and societal progress. Research experience also expands your professional network through collaboration with academics, industry experts, and participation in international conferences, opening doors to opportunities in academia, R&D, and consulting.

How is renewable energy shaping Electrical Engineering careers?

Renewable energy is significantly shaping Electrical Engineering careers by creating expanding opportunities in various specialized fields. As the world shifts toward sustainable energy solutions, electrical engineers are increasingly needed to design, develop, and maintain technologies in solar, wind, hydropower, and emerging areas like green hydrogen and battery storage systems. 

Engineers working in renewables are involved in integrating renewable sources into the electrical grid, optimizing smart grid technology, and advancing energy storage and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. This sector demands strong technical skills in power systems, grid compliance, project management, and innovative software tools. 

Interestingly, the growing focus on technical training and e-learning in the renewable sector is creating crossover opportunities in education technology. Professionals with expertise in training design, such as those pursuing masters in instructional design jobs, can contribute by developing curriculum, simulation programs, and training modules for engineers entering renewable energy fields. This illustrates how knowledge of both technical and instructional domains can open diverse career avenues.

The rapid growth in renewable energy jobs is driven by government policies, climate initiatives, and technological advances, making this a dynamic and promising career path within electrical engineering.

Power systems engineering jobs in renewables such as wind energy are expected to jump 115% to 20,000 jobs in 2025, with other renewable sectors like geothermal rising 42% to 1,800 jobs. Overall, renewable energy is redefining the role of electrical engineers and offering a wealth of impactful and rewarding career opportunities.

Here's what graduates have to say about their electrical engineering degree

Other Things You Should Know About What Can You Do With an Electrical Engineering Degree

Can you get a job in robotics with an electrical engineering degree?

Yes, you can get a job in robotics with an Electrical Engineering degree. Electrical engineering provides a strong foundation in key areas such as control systems, circuit design, sensors, and programming, all of which are crucial for robotics. Electrical engineers play vital roles in designing, building, and maintaining robotic systems and automation technologies across industries like manufacturing, healthcare, aerospace, and more.

What factors influence an electrical engineer's salary?

Several factors influence an electrical engineer's salary, shaping how much they can earn throughout their careers. Education level plays a key role; while most electrical engineering jobs require a bachelor's degree, those with master's degrees tend to earn about 17% more.

Experience is another significant factor, with salaries typically rising sharply during the first few years and continuing to increase with more seniority—engineers with over ten years of experience can earn substantially more than entry-level counterparts.

Job title and seniority also impact pay, with managerial and principal engineer roles commanding higher salaries due to added responsibilities and leadership.

Is a master's degree in electrical engineering necessary for a good career?

A master's degree in electrical engineering is not strictly necessary for a good career, but it can provide significant advantages in certain circumstances. Many electrical engineers successfully enter the workforce and build strong careers with just a bachelor's degree, especially if the program is accredited by ABET and complemented by internships or practical experience.

However, a master's degree offers benefits such as higher earning potential, advanced specialization in high-demand fields (like AI, power systems, or renewable energy), and better qualifications for leadership, research, and development roles.

What is the job satisfaction of electrical engineers?

Job satisfaction among electrical engineers shows a mixed but moderately positive picture. Surveys report that electrical engineers rate their overall career happiness at about 3.1 out of 5 stars, placing them in the lower 40% compared to other careers.

While many electrical engineers express moderate satisfaction with their salaries (around 3.4/5), the meaningfulness of their work tends to receive a lower rating (2.8/5), indicating that not all find their tasks deeply fulfilling. Most engineers feel their personalities fit their work well (3.6/5) and generally enjoy their work environment (3.4/5).