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Should I Make a Career Change to Electrical Engineering

Should I Make a Career Change to Electrical Engineering

Should I Make a Career Change to Electrical Engineering

(OP)
I have a BSEE and have my EIT.  I currently own an electrical contracting company that is very sucessful but I am not excited to do what I do anymore.  I am happiest when I am doing a design / build project or a lighting design project.  I am now considering moving on in my career.  I have considerable experience in project management and design.  I know that the folks in this forum my not like design / build, however I have designed 20 some projects ranging from 10K - 1mil.  When I say design, I mean that I have performed all aspects of the electrical design from conception to CAD.  The only thing that I did not do was final review and stamping by a PE, this is done by a PE consultant that I hire.  I know that I have the skills to be a entry level to mid level EIT on my way to a PE.

My question is do you think that a firm will hire me?  I have extensive experience but it is real world construction, not pure design.  I have the degree and EIT but I graduated in 1998.  The specific industry that I am interested in is electrical design for building systems.  Any comment are appreciated.

RE: Should I Make a Career Change to Electrical Engineering

The only things I can say are that it sounds like you have the experience.  One thing I noticed in the general industry is that LED lighting is more and more popular, as are lighting control systems, due to energy saving demands.  I would suspect knowledge of implementing these features and systems would make you attractive to certain companies.

RE: Should I Make a Career Change to Electrical Engineering

You're employable.  You have field experience, an EIT and a degree.  The only problem for you will be taking a pay cuy.  I'm guessing you will start somewhere between $50-65K with benefits.

If you're making good money, stay with it. God knows the money sucks in consulting.  But, if you really want a PE...

Good luck.

RE: Should I Make a Career Change to Electrical Engineering

If you're eligible to take the PE, go for it.  Having "PE" attached to your name will definitely increase your employability and should positively affect your starting salary.

I think you're employable now with all of your experience, just know that being an EIT in your mid-30's (presumably) is something you'll have to explain to the hiring manager why you never got the PE.

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