Top Skills for Software and Computer Engineers

7 July, 2021

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The foundations are being established for the next major achievements in computer engineering at facilities like the Center for Quantum Networks, a National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center led by the University of Arizona.

CQN is developing the quantum internet, intended to connect a new generation of computing systems that harness quantum mechanics for processing capabilities that far outstrip what’s possible with today’s conventional computers. The engineers and scientists involved in creating this new network hope their work will spawn whole industries while offering the computing power to enable further advances such as augmenting data security and manufacturing new materials.

Most technical professionals may never get a chance to use a quantum computer, but they all must build their careers in a dynamic technological landscape where groundbreaking tools and products routinely emerge to transform how we live and work. You can prepare to make the most of the opportunities ahead by growing your knowledge of software engineering or computer engineering. These two related — but distinct — areas of computer science each make invaluable contributions to the projects shaping the future.

Related Content: Top Skills for Electrical and Electronics Engineers

Software engineers generally focus on crafting targeted software solutions while computer engineering is a broader field centered on creating hardware systems. However, both fields demand advanced technical knowledge, efficient work habits, productive collaboration between team members, and the agility to adapt to the latest technological leaps. This article will discuss the key aptitudes that are necessary to succeed in a software or computer engineering career, along with the impact these skills can have on salary and job prospects.

Top 5 Software Engineering Skills

The most valuable skills for software engineers include operational techniques and technical proficiencies, as well as working effectively with others to keep an organization on track toward its goals. Building the necessary expertise can pave the way to a career in a rapidly growing field: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 22% growth for software engineering jobs between 2019 and 2029, compared to the average rate of 4% for all occupations.

Software engineers can become technical leaders at startups, join large teams at well-established corporate giants, or work independently as freelancers. Some of the biggest employers include organizations in the manufacturing, IT, financial services, insurance, and healthcare industries. Developing the following skills may help to pursue these opportunities:

1. Programming Languages

Software engineers employ a vast number of programming languages, with each offering unique features. Experts often cite Python as one of the most useful because of its simple syntax and array of prebuilt libraries that minimize the time to finish a project. Java, on the other hand, tends to be better at handling large amounts of code and has stricter rules, which reduces runtime errors.

According to PayScale, the highest salaries for engineers are correlated with expertise in Python and JavaScript. C++ and Java are also frequently cited among the most desirable languages with employers. However, new programming languages appear constantly, and engineers should understand how to adapt fundamental principles so they can make the right selection for every project.

2. Cloud Computing

A broad array of businesses rely on solutions like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform for their scalability and broad distribution of data and software. As a result, aptitude with these cloud applications has become one of the most crucial technical skills for software engineers.

Engineers should prepare to encounter challenges when striving to create applications that can be transferred across platforms or migrating existing programs to the cloud. The savvy to address issues like these is in high demand. An analysis of job posting data from Burning Glass found that a familiarity with AWS systems and procedures was one of the top 10 distinguishing skills requested in job postings.

3. DevOps

DevOps practices have been widely adopted by technical organizations as a way to synthesize the software development and IT functions. An alternative to rolling out software over a series of stages as in the waterfall model, this approach allows production and testing to occur simultaneously, which results in fewer errors and quicker time to market.

Engineers who apply DevOps methods can foster a collaborative work environment between the development and operations teams to ensure high-quality results. Since these skills enable professionals to apply their technical knowledge and achieve larger objectives as a team, they can be especially important for advancing into leadership positions. Burning Glass noted that DevOps skills are associated with a salary premium for software engineers.

4. Software Development

While this term is sometimes used interchangeably with software engineering, a developer’s role is usually different from an engineer’s: A developer is responsible for creating applications that target precise needs, whereas an engineer builds the overall structures in which the applications operate.

However, a software engineer’s tasks frequently encompass the development process. These technical professionals are tasked with turning the specifications from clients or employers into a product that reliably meets their needs. That can mean software engineers apply their expertise to oversee software creation, testing, and updates from the ground up.

5. Teamwork/Communication

Effective collaboration with a team is a fundamental skill for software engineers since they must work with clients, developers, and technical support to ensure a high-quality, error-free product. To keep everyone on your team on the same page, progressing efficiently toward shared goals, you need to convey instructions and expectations through clear written and verbal communication. By adjusting how you discuss technical issues so you can engage multiple stakeholders, you may discover creative ideas from across various teams and set yourself up for success in a leadership role.

Top 5 Computer Engineering Skills

Computer hardware engineers may possess software engineering skills, but this discipline concentrates on the development of systems for a variety of purposes. Specialized knowledge in computer engineering can lead to a rewarding career: According to BLS, the median salary for computer engineers is 24% higher than the average for all engineers. The top industries employing computer engineers include tech, government, aerospace, education, and cybersecurity.

Computer engineers need sophisticated problem-solving abilities and a thorough understanding of how electronic components work together. Prioritizing these skills can help professionals confront the challenges of a constantly evolving discipline and meet their responsibilities for designing, developing, and testing hardware:

1. Microprocessor Design

Since microprocessors are fundamental to computing, designing and constructing them is one of the most valuable technical skills for computer engineers. Professionals in this field are responsible for devising microarchitecture in accordance with the technical requirements for a piece of hardware. Engineers must often solve complex problems as they lay down data paths and check performance.

The ubiquity of microprocessors in the connected devices we use every day and the massive complexity of these chips can lead to dire security concerns. That’s why it’s increasingly crucial for computer engineers to have experience in incorporating cybersecurity features into their designs. Strategically implementing safety measures can prevent vulnerabilities that otherwise allow data theft.

2. Operating Systems

An operating system’s configuration and implementation can make a major difference in how various components function, so an engineer must fully understand the impact of these choices. For instance, engineers developing workstations and personal computers need a deep familiarity with systems like Windows and React, whereas professionals who work on servers should know the intricacies of IBM i and MacOS Server.

Other considerations include cost — operating systems such as Linux and Haiku are free — and usability, with MacOS frequently cited as among the most visually appealing and user-friendly. According to a U.S. Department of Labor review of job postings, competencies in Linux, Unix, and Shell Script are all especially valued by employers.

3. Digital Design

Through computer-aided logic design, engineers find the best means to transform large amounts of data, power, current, and user input into system tasks by applying binary logic. They apply their digital design skill set for purposes such as using CMOS technology to create integrated circuit chips or laying out combinational circuits to minimize the gates, delays, or power consumption in a device. Running optimization algorithms and tests makes it possible to see that circuits meet a device’s requirements and lay the groundwork for manufacturing processes to move forward.

4. Digital Signal Processing

Digital signal processing has become essential to wireless communications and data storage. By cultivating the expertise to ensure digital signals are sent and received accurately, computer engineers develop specialized devices and contribute to the next generation of solutions in areas like speech processing, video conferencing, image compression, and remote sensing.

Technical professionals may discover career paths through learning how to apply signal processing algorithms or design digital filters that enhance signals. Computer engineers who delve further into areas like digital communications or video can use their understanding of hardware to solve problems in how we interact with digital information.

5. Debugging

Debugging is one of the most essential skills for computer engineers, critical to keep computer systems operating efficiently and accurately. Hardware specialists should be able to spot, analyze, and fix errors or anomalies before they become problems for users.

However, a highly capable engineer also understands how to evaluate and set priorities during the debugging process. In some cases, the benefit of an operation might outweigh the downsides of an associated error, making it necessary to create workarounds that allow the system to continue functioning. One of the most crucial capabilities for any technical professional is being able to take a step back and understand how each individual task fits into the big picture.

Honing Your Skills in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Innovative technologies continue to change how we use computers to solve problems, drive business growth, and secure private information. Software and hardware engineers can make an impact on the next generation of systems by expanding their knowledge of cutting-edge technologies, theoretical concepts, and their practical applications.

An online Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering provides skills that employers in a variety of industries rank as integral for the success of technical professionals. Completing a career-oriented master’s program that delves into software engineering principles as well as topics like high-performance computing, digital signal processing, and artificial intelligence can ensure you have the necessary understanding to excel in the field.

About the University of Arizona’s Online Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering

The University of Arizona College of Engineering ranks in the top 30 for Best Online Graduate Engineering Programs and features a top 50 electrical and computer engineering department, according to U.S. News & World Report. Arizona’s online Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) program is a perfect fit for working engineers looking to enter design-oriented roles and play a central part in the creation and planning phase of new technologies.

Arizona offers flexible and varied online engineering programs that provide a comprehensive path to professional development. Through longstanding partnerships with some of the foremost technology companies in the country, graduates have gone on to pursue advanced positions at innovative global organizations that shape the future of industries.