The Future of Computer Engineering: Worth It Today?

With over 30 years of experience in the field, I can confidently say that the landscape of computer engineering has significantly evolved in recent years. As I reflect on my career journey, I must ask: is a career in computer engineering still worth pursuing in today's rapidly changing technology landscape?

The Changing Dynamics of the Tech Industry

In 2014, less than two years before my retirement, I found myself working at Mass Medicaid Society where a junior engineer, hired due to his ethnicity instead of merit, attempted to implement Hibernate as a solution. This was a common practice that misguided many about the true benefits of Object Relational Mapping (ORM). He argued that ORM would save coding time and processor cycles. However, as I pointed out, ORM frameworks add an extra layer that always impacts performance. The official Oracle documentation also supports this: ORM is not a panacea for performance problems.

This instance reflects a larger issue in the industry: sometimes, candidates are hired based on personal or socio-political considerations rather than merit. This has had a lasting impact on the quality and reliability of software engineering projects in Massachusetts. The politicization of software engineering, as evidenced by the hiring practices I witnessed, has further deteriorated the trust and quality in the industry.

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Job Market

The advent of advanced AI and machine learning (ML) technologies is now changing the game for computer engineering. According to many industry experts, the prolonged education path required for a computer engineering degree can no longer guarantee a competitive edge. As stated by someone with direct experience, by the time you graduate and acquire the necessary certifications, you will be competing with many highly experienced professionals who are facing layoffs due to AI automation and robotics.

In fact, the Forbes Business Council notes that physical labor and many 9-5 jobs are soon to be automated by artificial intelligence and general-purpose intelligence (AGI)-embodied robots. This shift towards AI and machine automation means that the typical 9-5 job could become obsolete within the next decade.

Is It Still Worth Pursuing Computer Engineering?

Given the rapid evolution of technology and the rise of AI, is a career in computer engineering still worth pursuing? The answer is somewhat complex.

For those who are considering a career in computer engineering, you must weigh several factors:

Market Demand: There is still a demand for skilled computer engineers and software developers. However, the pool of candidates is vast, leading to a drop in pay rates compared to the 1990s. Salaries: The median salary for a computer engineer is approximately the same as an accountant, and even lower than a plumber in some regions. For those with niche skills like SAP, there is still potential for a competitive salary. AI and Automation: The rise of AI and automation has made it more challenging to secure a traditional 9-5 job. However, these same technologies can also open up exciting opportunities in areas like AI engineering, machine learning, and data science.

Regardless of the challenges, the field of computer engineering continues to evolve and offer new opportunities. However, it is crucial to approach the decision with a realistic assessment of the current job market and the skills required to succeed.

To navigate the changing landscape effectively, consider the following:

Gain experience through internships or side projects to stand out from the competition. Specialize in areas like AI, machine learning, or cybersecurity where there is still high demand and potential for growth. Flexibility and adaptability are key. Be open to learning new technologies and staying up-to-date with industry trends.

In conclusion, while the traditional path of pursuing a degree in computer engineering may not guarantee the same level of success as it did in the past, it is still a viable career choice. The key is to remain informed about the latest trends and continuously develop your skills to stay relevant in the rapidly evolving tech industry.