What are some different types of work that involves electricity and working with computers?
I like working with computers, fixing things and learning new things everyday. #computer-science #computer-science
3 answers
Edmond Momartin ☁️
Edmond’s Answer
Abira's answer is spot on. Since you expressed specific interest in "electricity" I would like to add one more option for you consider.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) both of which refer to special purpose computers with their own programming languages optimized to control equipment and machinery in general. They are also used heavily to control systems which are used to run the electrical grid, from power generation (e.g. nuclear power plants) to power transmission and distribution lines (all the high voltage towers).
Abira’s Answer
Hi Jeremy,
It sounds like computer science, computer engineering , or electrical engineering might be a good fit for you.
Computer science is mostly about designing software and does not deal as much with the physical components of computers. Computer science majors usually involve lots of programming and logic classes, with some math and physics. It is a constantly changing field with new technologies, and a high-demand career. Computer scientists are behind the phone apps, websites, and other software that runs on computers everyday.
Electrical engineering concentrates on systems involving electricity and magnetism. It is much more physics-heavy, and NOT the same as being an electrician. An electric engineer might work on anything from motors and batteries to large-scale power generation. Many engineers use CAD (computer aided design) to create their circuit designs.
Computer engineering is a blend of computer science and electrical engineering where one will design and develop computer systems and components. For example, a computer engineer could be responsible for creating a circuit board for a computer. They need some knowledge of computer software but are more concerned with the hardware.
All three of these careers demand strong skills in math, logic, and communication. If you are ready, there are many classes available online on sites such as Khan Academy, that have free videos on these subjects.
Abira's reply was spot on and very detailed. Since you were specific about electricity, I'd like to add another branch in electrical engineering/computer engineering that might interest you.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems as well as Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are special purpose computers predominantly designed and optimized to control processes and systems.
They are also used to manage an electrical grid, from generation (e.g. nuclear power plant) to the transmission and distribution lines.
Edmond Momartin ☁️
