Computer engineering is an evolving and fast-paced career that requires creative thinking, adaptability, teamwork, and technology skills. 

As a trained computer engineering professional, you'll have the skills to excel in many positions. Jobs in the field include computer programmer, computer systems analyst, database administrator, data scientist, forensic computer analyst, and web developer.

Computer engineering pays well, too. Annual median salaries for computer engineering professions range from$84,810 to$151,150, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

Read on to learn how to get started in computer engineering.

What is it like to work in computer engineering?

If you're considering a career in computer engineering, you're likely drawn to the hardware and systems sides of computing. 

Computer engineers combine computer science and electrical engineering to build mobile applications, operating systems, and web browsers. Computer engineers need to know languages like C, Python, and Java. 

Subfields span big data analysis, computer architecture, cybersecurity, game hardware design, mobile device engineering, and user interface design. 

Typical computer engineering duties include:

• Designing and testing computer hardware components
• Managing operating systems
• Researching software and computer hardware
• Setting up computer networks
• Writing and testing software for mobile devices 

Computer engineers work for gaming companies, financial firms, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and tech companies. They collaborate with designers, researchers, systems and securities experts, and testers.

Is computer engineering right for me?

Your strengths, interests, and professional goals can help you decide if a computer engineering career is for you. Explore them with the steps below.

Think about your strengths.

Successful computer engineers need to be adaptable and flexible to handle the fluid nature of technology. Computer engineers solve problems, so creativity and an ability to focus on work are important assets. 

Rather than working on a computer in isolation, engineers are part of teams who collaborate with other engineers, developers, and analysts. They need communication and social skills