Switching Electrical Engineering to IT: A Guide for Fresh Graduates
Introduction
As a fresh graduate with an electrical engineering background, you might be considering a shift towards the IT field. This guide is designed to help you understand the necessary steps and skills needed to make this transition successfully.
Is Electrical Engineering a Poor Choice?
No, it is not inherently a poor choice, but the context might be limiting.
India's engineering education system has been criticized for being outdated, with many electrical engineering programs not preparing graduates for the modern job market. However, this does not mean that pursuing a career in electrical engineering is a bad decision. It simply means that you may need to supplement your knowledge with additional skills to stay competitive in the IT industry.
Why Electrical Engineering Might Be Limiting
Outdated Curriculum and Lack of Specialization:
The Indian engineering curriculum is over 40 years old, and it has not kept pace with the rapid advancements in technology. This has resulted in a significant skill gap, particularly in specialized areas of electrical engineering where there is no demand for such degree holders in the industry.
No Core Private Electrical Engineering Firms:
Internationally renowned electrical engineering companies are not operating in India due to the lack of skilled, employable electrical engineers. This means that you may not find many career opportunities within the traditional domain of electrical engineering.
Recommended Skill Path for Fresh Graduates
Web Development:
Starting your transition to IT with HTML, CSS, and Bootstrap can provide a strong foundation. These technologies are essential for building the front end of web applications. Once you are comfortable with these basics, you can move on to JavaScript to add interactivity and functionality to your projects.
Frontend and Backend Development:
Next, you should focus on learning React.js for frontend development, which is a popular framework for building user interfaces. For backend development, Node.js, Express.js, and MongoDB are essential. These technologies form the backbone of modern web applications and applications.
Data Structures and Algorithms:
To really succeed in the IT field, it is crucial to master Data Structures and Algorithms. These skills are highly valued in the job market and can significantly boost your chances of landing high-paying positions.
Alternative Career Path: Teaching Assistant
If finding a job in the IT sector is challenging, you might consider a position as an assistant professor in engineering colleges. This can provide you with the time to refine your skills and make a more informed career decision.
Online Courses and Reskilling Institutes
ThinkQuotient:
There are many online tutorials, coaching classes, and software institutes that can help you transition. ThinkQuotient is a notable option that offers online skill development courses with reskilling and upskilling options. They provide 100% job guarantee upon completion of their courses, making them a reliable choice for fresh graduates looking to make a transition.
Conclusion
Switching from electrical engineering to the IT field is certainly possible with the right mindset and skills. By focusing on developing web development, data structures, and algorithms, you can significantly increase your chances of success in the IT industry. Consider leveraging online courses and reskilling institutes to gain the necessary knowledge and skills.
Good luck on your journey!