Which specific area in Electrical Engineering has a bright future?

Question

I'm currently rising Junior studying electrical engineering (BS).

I'm at the point where I should be thinking about specialization for technical elective courses and having trouble deciding one.

I have some areas that I'm interested in such as computer, controls and systems, robotics and power. I know that's quite a list. I just don't have that one area that I'm loving at this point. So I need some of you guys advice.

Which area is on the rise?

What are some pros and cons for each areas?

How's the job market for specific area?

Is it necessary to decide one before I go into industry?

or some suggestions based on your work experience?

Thank you, guys.

Answer 1

I wouldn't worry too much about the specialty - I know that's hard to believe when you're in school and everyone focuses on it - but once you leave school you will be asked to have memorized little and be able to learn a lot. That means you probably won't know the details of your job when leaving school, and nobody expects you to. What they expect is that you'll be able to put the blocks together to learn new things quickly.

So, my sage advice is to get breadth (variety) in your undergrad, and focus your specialty in what really interests you, not what you think will get you a job someday. You'll excel farther with this approach because you'll enjoy what you're doing. If you're not in love with anything right now, just pick something that you like the best and go with it. None of these choices will haunt you. Again, make sure you get introduced to a lot of different classes, this will take you farther than you think!

Answer 2

I do know the best market to be in is PLC.  Forget computers, that market is so swamped you will have to be exceptional to make any real money.  Robotics and power is a decent area, but unless you went to a top school like CAL tech or MIT, you aren't going to make top dollar.  Those students are just too far ahead.