Electrical engineering: Illuminating the past, present, and future

27 October  2023

Electrical engineering: what a captivating world it opens up! It's a realm with opportunities for your imagination and ingenuity to shine. If you've ever envisioned making a huge impact on the world, consider an electrical engineering career.

At its heart, electrical engineering is all about electricity, electronics, and magnetism. This field powers much of our daily life and has played a vital role in shaping our world. Electrical engineers are the masterminds behind power generation, the gadgets we rely on, our communication systems, and the electrical networks that run our world.

But here's where it gets exciting – electrical engineering is always on the move. Engineers in this field are pioneers, forging ahead with cutting-edge technologies. Consider renewable energy, like solar and wind power, which decreases our need for fossil fuels. Consider the captivating world of self-driving cars and artificial intelligence. The future looks promising, and electrical engineers are at the forefront, turning these ideas into reality.

If you're someone who loves thinking and crafting things that can change the course of lives, then electrical engineering might be your ideal path. It's a dynamic and inspiring field, offering boundless opportunities for innovation. If you're driven to make a lasting impact on the world, it might be the perfect time to contemplate a career in electrical engineering.

Historical roots of Electrical Engineering

The tale of electrical engineering is an intriguing journey that combines ancient wisdom with groundbreaking innovations. Let's begin with a nod to ancient civilisations, their early grasp of electricity, and the groundbreaking work of pioneers like Edison, Tesla, and Faraday."

Centuries ago, even before modern electrical engineering emerged, ancient societies already understood the basics of electricity and magnetism. The ancient Egyptians had a mysterious device called the Baghdad Battery. They used it to put gold on silver objects. This setup, with a clay jar holding a copper cylinder, an iron rod, and some acidic liquid, showed their basic understanding of electricity. They made an electric current when they linked the copper cylinder and iron rod. This current allowed gold to coat silver objects. Though not comprehended then, it marked a remarkable electricity use in ancient history.

The ancient Greeks also knew about electricity. They made up the word "Elektron" from the Greek word for amber. They noticed that when you rub amber against some things, it gets charged. This electrified amber pulled in small things like feathers and leaves. It showed an early grasp of electrostatic forces.

In the 19th century, visionaries like Thomas Edison, Nikola Tesla, and Michael Faraday made electrical engineering a distinct field. It was a time of major change despite its early beginnings.

A famous inventor, Thomas Edison, made a lasting impact on electrical engineering. His inventions included the first viable light bulb, the phonograph, and the motion picture projector. Edison started the Edison Electric Light Company. They were pioneers, bringing electric power to homes and businesses, changing our lives and work.

Nikola Tesla, a famous figure in the field, is well-known for his contributions to alternating current (AC) electricity, a major improvement over direct current (DC) electricity. Tesla's revolutionary AC system made long-distance power transmission workable, transforming the energy landscape.

A British physicist, Michael Faraday, made fundamental discoveries in electricity and magnetism. His discoveries, like the electromagnetic induction principle, laid the foundation for electric motors and generators. His explanation of electrolysis laws helped make important materials, such as aluminium.

The legacies of Edison, Tesla, Faraday, and their peers laid the foundation for modern electrical engineering. Today, electrical engineers play a crucial role in designing systems that power our homes and businesses, supporting our daily tech needs. The historical journey of electrical engineering, from ancient experiments to 19th-century breakthroughs, still impacts our modern world.

Core pillars of Electrical Engineering

1. Power generation, transmission, and distribution

Electrical engineers create power plants. These plants can run on coal, natural gas, nuclear energy, or green sources like wind and solar. They harness these sources to produce electricity. Once electricity is generated, it has to travel where it's used. Electrical engineers design and build a complex network of long-distance power lines. Finally, electricity is distributed from substations into our homes and businesses. Electrical engineers ensure this distribution is efficient and reliable.

2. Electronics

Electrical engineers in the electronics fieldwork on a vast array of devices. They create microchips for our gadgets and build large data centers that run the internet and cloud services. Beyond consumer gadgets, electrical engineers also work on critical medical tools like MRI machines, communication devices, and industrial automation systems.

3. Control systems

Control systems are the brains behind automation. Electrical engineers design systems to oversee and improve industrial processes. They boost efficiency, accuracy, and safety, whether it's assembly line robots or control systems for power plants and transportation networks. Their work is essential for optimizing production, reducing errors, and ensuring safety in complex processes.

4. Telecommunication systems

Electrical engineers in telecommunication design the systems that connect us. This includes the infrastructure behind telephone networks, cellular networks, and the vast global network we know as the Internet. Their work ensures that we can communicate across the street or worldwide.

Interdisciplinary nature of Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering thrives on collaboration with various other fields, showcasing its interdisciplinary nature. Here's how it merges with other domains:

• Mechatronics is where electrical engineering meets mechanical engineering. Mechatronics engineers create systems that combine electrical and mechanical parts, bringing things like robots, self-driving cars, and automated manufacturing to life.
• Biomedical engineering marries electrical engineering with medicine. In biomedical engineering, experts design medical devices like pacemakers, prosthetic limbs, and advanced medical imaging equipment.
• Computer science collaborates with electrical engineering. Together, they craft both the hardware and software for electronic devices. Electrical engineers create computer microprocessors, and computer scientists make the software that runs on them. This collaborative effort extends to academic programs as well, including the Bachelor of Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering.

Electrical engineers work on various projects, like creating smart robots using artificial intelligence or making medical implants that use electricity to stimulate nerve cells. Electrical engineers collaborate with experts from various fields, like mechanical engineers, computer scientists, and biomedical engineers.

They work together on projects like designing more powerful and energy-efficient computer chips. The mix of different fields is a special strength of electrical engineering. It lets engineers use various knowledge to make new and game-changing technologies that change our world.

Besides these fields, electrical engineers collaborate with civil, chemical, and aerospace engineering experts. Electrical engineering is a global discipline where engineers come together to create technologies that improve our world.

Real-world applications and innovations

Electrical engineering shines with real-world applications and innovations:

Modern energy grids and sustainable solutions

Electrical engineers lead the charge in revamping energy grids for sustainability. They're crafting ways to blend renewable sources, like solar and wind power, into the grid. Electrical engineers created smart grid technology, which uses digital tools to enhance grid efficiency, reliability, and the integration of renewable energy. Energy storage systems also come into play, storing excess renewable energy for later use, even when the wind isn't blowing.

Furthermore, they're creating better, cheaper solar panels and wind turbines, making green energy easier to get and more affordable.

Automation and Industry 4.0

In the era of Industry 4.0, electrical engineers are pivotal in automating processes. Robotics, developed by them, handles tasks that are too perilous, repetitive, or challenging for humans. Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) simplify industrial process control. Digital technologies created by electrical engineers, such as data analytics, ramp up manufacturing efficiency and product quality while reducing costs.

Advancements in telecommunications: From wired to wireless

Electrical engineers have left an indelible mark on telecommunications evolution. They birthed the telegraph and telephone, enabling long-distance communication. Later, radio and television reshaped how we connect and access information.

In the 21st century, electrical engineers introduced us to cellular phones, the internet, and other wireless marvels. They're still hard at work, birthing cutting-edge technologies like 5G and 6G, ushering in an era of self-driving cars, the Internet of things, and augmented reality.

These are a few instances of how electrical engineering is shaping our world, advancing to pave the way for a brighter future.

The dynamic landscape of electrical engineering jobs

The field of electrical engineering jobs is ever-changing due to rapid tech advances. Electrical engineers work in many industries, such as energy, transportation, manufacturing, healthcare, and telecommunications.

Let's take a closer look at some common roles within electrical engineering:

• Circuit Designers: These experts craft the vital electronic circuits in our devices. They use their electrical engineering expertise to create circuits that meet certain requirements, such as size, power efficiency, and performance.
• Power System Analysts: These experts work on power systems, ensuring they're reliable and efficient to meet the growing electricity needs.
• Control Systems Engineers: In this job, engineers create smart control systems for automation in different industries. They draw from their electrical engineering and computer science knowledge.
• Telecommunications Engineers: These engineers work on systems that allow long-distance communication involving cellular networks, the Internet, and satellite communications.

Apart from these roles, electrical engineers also work in research, sales, and tech support.

Skills required for electrical engineering roles vary, but a strong foundation in math, physics, and electrical engineering principles is essential. Skill in computer-aided design (CAD) software and other engineering tools is a common need.

As new technologies emerge, electrical engineers must adapt and get new skills. For example, if you're interested in self-driving cars, you must understand artificial intelligence and machine learning. If you're into the Internet of Things, you should be skilled in wireless communication and data analytics.

Electrical engineering jobs are dynamic and rich with opportunities for qualified professionals. Electrical engineers are at the forefront of developing and implementing new technologies that enhance people's lives worldwide.

Tips for aspiring Electrical Engineers

1. Hands-on experience

Electrical engineering is about making things work in the real world. Classroom knowledge is essential, but it comes to life when applied in practical situations. Seek internships and co-op programs, or join student projects related to your interests. These experiences can be transformative and teach you how to solve engineering challenges.

2. Continuous learning

The world of electrical engineering is always evolving. What's considered cutting-edge today may be outdated in a few years. Stay committed to learning. Read technical journals to understand the latest developments. Attend industry conferences to meet experts and hear about new trends. Taking continuing education courses can help you stay current. Don't forget to explore online courses and tutorials, too.

3. Network building

Networking is a powerful tool for your career. It can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and valuable advice from experienced engineers. Attend industry events, conferences, and seminars to meet people in your field. Join professional organisations and take part in their activities. Platforms like LinkedIn can help you connect with professionals worldwide.

4. Strong math and science skills

Electrical engineering relies on mathematics and science. Developing a solid foundation in these areas is crucial. If you're having trouble, don't hesitate to seek help from a tutor, professor, or mentor. Mastery of these fundamental subjects will make your journey in electrical engineering smoother.

5. Coding skill:

Coding skills are important in today's electrical engineering roles. Learning at least one programming language (such as Python, C++, or MATLAB) is valuable. These languages are used for data analysis, system control, and automation.

6. Creativity and Innovation:

Electrical engineers are at the forefront of developing new technologies. To excel, you must be creative and innovative. Think outside the box, propose novel solutions to problems, and approach projects with fresh perspectives. This spirit of innovation is what drives the field forward.

7. Team player:

Electrical engineering projects are rarely solo endeavours. You'll often work on multidisciplinary teams with other engineers, scientists, and technicians. Being an effective team player is essential. It involves communication, collaboration, and a willingness to share knowledge.

Reflecting on the transformative power of Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering has made a huge impact on our society. Indeed, electrical engineering has reshaped our lives, bringing profound changes to how we live, work, and communicate. Electrical engineers have been key in shaping our modern world. They brought us the light bulb and connected us through the internet.

The journey of electrical engineering marches on, with innovators leading the way, creating groundbreaking technologies. They are on a mission to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels by developing renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. Additionally, they are paving the way for self-driving cars and artificial intelligence, poised to redefine how we live and work.

The future of electrical engineering shines. Demand for electrical engineers is soaring, and the field is on a trajectory of rapid growth. These engineers have a unique opportunity to shape the world's destiny by creating technologies that enhance people's lives worldwide. Electrical engineering remains a beacon of progress and a testament to human ingenuity as we move forward.

Let's stay connected

Leave your contact details to receive our events and course updates.