Essential Computer Engineering Skills

Computer engineers use computer science and electrical engineering principles to bridge the gap between hardware and software development, create innovative designs, and optimize computer systems. As a computer engineer, you may work on teams that do anything from designing computer architectures to embedding computing systems into devices, meaning this position requires a mix of technical and interpersonal skills to succeed. 

To decide whether this career is right for you, consider what exactly a computer engineer is and the top skills that successful computer engineers use in their daily tasks.

What is computer engineering?

As a computer engineer, you work with various computer science and engineering concepts, including computer networks, architectures, artificial intelligence, computing systems, operating systems, and more. Basically, you understand “all things computer,” including hardware and software components, and help design and implement computer systems to run more efficiently. Any field that uses devices with a computer processor relies on a computer engineer at some development and management stage. This means you could work in various industries in this position, including aerospace, power production, defense, health care, video game design, and consumer goods (think telephones, microwaves, and other computer-powered devices), depending on your personal interests.

Because of the technical nature of this career, computer engineers need to have a strong set of technical skills, often revolving around computer science and electrical engineering principles. However, as a computer engineer, you’ll usually work in teams to design different systems or integrate them with other areas of the organization. This requires people management and collaboration skills to ensure each team member stays on track and motivated to help the project meet its goals on time.

Top technical skills for computer engineers

Successful computer engineers typically have a solid foundation in several technical areas, allowing them to work on various hardware and software-related tasks. While your expertise will depend on your industry, several technical areas in which you might use your skills are as follows.

Computer hardware design

To design and optimize physical devices, you’ll need to understand the architecture and functionality of hardware components. You might use this knowledge to build new products or reconfigure and upgrade existing architectures. Skills in this area also allow you to test and analyze products, helping to update designs as requirements change.

Computer software development

While you may typically work with hardware, computer software and applications often go hand-in-hand with hardware design. You’ll likely benefit from working skills in creating tools, applications, and databases that integrate with the hardware components. Knowing at least one programming language, such as Python, may help you stand out to employers for this position.

Embedded systems design

As a computer engineer, you might leverage hardware and software knowledge to design computing systems that don’t resemble traditional computers. This involves things like appliances (e.g., refrigerators), automobiles, medical devices (e.g., pacemakers), cameras, robotics, smart devices (e.g., fitness trackers), and more. You would be responsible for writing computer code that directly interacts with the hardware components for these devices. 

Design testing and troubleshooting

While it would be ideal to have all your designs work on the first try, this typically isn’t the case. Engineers rely on testing their designs to identify flaws and determine which modifications are needed. Testing and iterating on your design can help you overcome design flaws and perform at a higher level.

Top workplace skills for computer engineers

While you might work on some aspects of your profession alone, other components may involve working on or leading a team. Some top workplace skills that can help you excel include the following.

Leadership

As projects grow in complexity, it’s essential to be able to set strategic goals and work alongside team members with diverse skill sets and backgrounds. You may have to use skills in facilitating teamwork relationships, delegating tasks, and making decisions throughout each project milestone.

Team motivation

Maintaining motivation in your team and encouraging productivity is a big part of being a team leader. It’s important to recognize each member’s accomplishments, offer mentorship, and take time to ensure each person can contribute meaningfully.

Creativity

Computer engineers often solve complex problems, meaning cultivating creativity can help you design innovative solutions and consider alternative solutions. You can also look at existing solutions to consider creative ways to improve them.

Critical thinking

Like creativity, critical thinking helps you think beyond obvious solutions, develop new ways of looking at problems, and consider alternative solutions. It enables you to consider the risks and benefits of different options, ask informed questions, and scrutinize the status quo. 

How to gain more computer engineering skills

If you think computer engineering might be right for you but want to boost your skills in certain areas, you can do this in several ways. To start, consider the following steps:

• Identify your skills gaps: Identifying areas of improvement that could help you become a more successful computer engineer can help you tailor your plan directly to your end goals.

• Find a mentor in your area of interest: A mentor in computer engineering can help you find a road to improvement that aligns with your professional path. For example, your mentor might have resources or connections that help you develop skills that align with your industry.

• Seek out learning opportunities: Courses, Professional Certificates, and degree programs can provide a structured pathway to building professional skills in computer engineering. Many computer engineers have a formal degree in computer engineering, but you can complete boot camps and online courses to expand your expertise in specific areas.

Learn more about computer engineering on Coursera.

Computer engineers use a range of hardware, software, and workplace skills to build and manage computer systems and applications. Learn hardware and software skills that help users select, install, and configure their devices, operating systems, and applications with the IBM IT Support Professional Certificate on Coursera.