Electrical and Electronic Engineer

Job overview
There are both similarities and differences, between electrical and electronic engineering.

Electrical engineering is a wide field of study, comprising all aspects of energy systems.

It has to do with the generation, distribution and optimal application of electrical energy

Electronic engineering is that branch of engineering that aims to extend and supplement the human senses and skills.

It has to do with obtaining, assimilating, controlling, transmitting and distributing information.

What do people do in these occupations?
The fields in which electrical engineers work include:-

• Thermal coal power-stations - here chemical energy is transformed to electrical energy - an example of the generation of electrical energy.
• The use of sun cells and wind-chargers to transform wind and sun energy into electrical energy - two examples of alternative ways to generate electrical energy.
• The distribution of electrical energy - transmission lines that cross the country, substations and eventually the separation box in a residence.

The fields in which electronic engineers work include:-

• The use of infra-red cameras to? "?see?" ?in the dark - an example of obtaining information.

Phenomena that cannot be observed by humans are transformed by electronic technology to observable phenomena.

• The use of computers to solve complicated problems and to assimilate signals.
• The control of mechanical and chemical processes through electronic systems.
• International telephone conversations and video phones.
• Mass media such as radio and television.

Electrical and electronic engineers are busy with the fulfilment of phases of the engineering process.

This includes studying, problem formulation, setting up specifications, pre-studies and analysis, design, simulation, research, development, testing, realisation, marketing, maintenance of electrical and electronic components, subsystems and systems.

There are various disciplines in which the engineer can specialise including electromagnetism, energy systems, computer engineering, bio-engineering, electrical machinery, signal assimilation, telecommunication, control systems, photonics, acoustics and micro-electronics.

Electronic and electrical engineers typically work in offices or design centres.

Depending on the nature of the work, they may spend time in the laboratory.

Electrical engineers frequently find themselves in large constructions and / or installations such as power-stations.

What kinds of people are suitable for these careers?
Electrical and electronic engineers should be capable of independent thinking, have an urge to create, have imagination and vision, and above-average intelligence.

They must be capable of identifying a problem and then finding the best solution as fast as possible and at the lowest cost.

Sometimes the optimum solution requires instinctive thinking.

They must also have an aptitude and a liking for mathematics, be innovative and have the potential to work independently, but also as part of a team.

What qualifications are needed?
A minimum of a university degree in electrical or electronic engineering.