Job Security and Salary for Electrical Engineering

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Q. I'm an electrical engineering student at a tier 1, private university. My gpa, however, is a 2.8. I took too much difficult electives. Furthermore, I have not engaged in any student activities, nor did I participate in an engineering internship. I do poorly in group projects, as I do not talk much to people and have very little or no friends. Shortly, I will be graduating, and I am concerned about my future prospects. My worries come mainly from the shortcomings that I explained above, along with the fact that the current economy is receding. Also, there is really no one to care for me, so I need to ensure myself a safe, decent-paying job. In terms of getting my first engineering job, what should I expect? What does the future hold for my hopes of job security and good salary? Also, what would my employers be having a person like me doing? Would electrical engineering be something that I'll be clinging onto until I reach retirement age? Would I be eligible for retirement benefits and savings? I understand that no one knows the answers to my questions, but I would appreciate some rough opinions and feedback from those knowledgable about the EE profession.

A. -You are taking a very sensible attitude and not likely to be disappointed after graduating. -Sounds like me ten years ago. companies like IBM and GE look for high gradepoint to fill their desk jobs. AKA pencil pushers. many other companies also need engineers for things other than R&D. I went into a manufacturing environment, project engineering. They didn't want a high GPA bookworm. IMHO, it was great experience. I even got dirty from time to time. salary was a little below average, so was the cost of living. I've changed jobs since then, now GPA does mean a thing. -Your destiny is more in your control than you think. You must have the attitude that it is YOUR responsibility to create value of yourself. Continue to read an learn. Gain perspective. Sometimes things happen that are our of our control. However, it is not the situation that defines us, but how we react to it that is important. If you "let the system control you", or let the industry make your mark for you, you are not taking the right approach. it often takes many years for younger engineers to understand this. So, again, I urge you to continue your learning in ALL areas related to engineering. That means understanding how peripheral aspects work, how marketing and sales work (even if you don't intent to go into this), and understand how management works (same thing - even if it's not you plan). A better understanding of the world and how it works is important. I dare say that it is more important than the engineering skills at times!

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