Electrical engineers have a great potential in the US because they are needed to design and develop a wide range of electronic systems and devices used in various industries, including telecommunications, transportation, energy, and manufacturing. In Montana, the demand for electrical engineers may be driven by the state’s growing renewable energy sector, as well as the need to upgrade and maintain the state’s electrical infrastructure. Additionally, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected that the employment of electrical and electronics engineers is expected to grow 20% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.

Job Description of Electrical Engineers

Electrical engineers design, develop, test and supervise the manufacture of a wide range of electronic systems and devices. They work on various projects such as power generation, transmission, and distribution systems, electrical machinery, lighting and wiring in buildings, transportation systems, and communication systems. They also work on the design and development of electronic devices such as computers, navigation systems, medical equipment, and radar and sonar systems. They may also be responsible for overseeing the installation, operation, maintenance and repair of equipment and systems.

Skills Required to Become an Electrical Engineer

To become an electrical engineer, one should possess strong analytical, problem-solving, and mathematical skills. They should also have good communication and teamwork skills as they often work in teams. Knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) software is also an important skill for electrical engineers. Electrical engineers should have knowledge of electronic theory and materials properties, as well as an understanding of electrical codes and standards. They should be able to design and develop new systems, as well as test and evaluate existing systems.

Different Degree Types for Electrical Engineers and Courses Taught

The most common degree type for electrical engineers is a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Electrical Engineering. However, some schools also offer a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering (BEE) degree. A Master of Science (MS) in Electrical Engineering is also available for those who wish to further their education and specialize in a particular area of electrical engineering.

Courses that are typically taught in an electrical engineering program include

  • Circuit Analysis
  • Electronic Devices and Circuits
  • Control Systems
  • Digital Systems
  • Power Systems
  • Electromagnetics
  • Computer Engineering
  • Robotics
  • Communications Systems

These programs will also include laboratory work and design projects to give students hands-on experience with the concepts and tools they learn in the classroom.

Best Colleges and Universities in Montana for Electrical Engineers

Montana State University – Bozeman

The electrical and computer engineering program at MSU offers a BS and MS degree in Electrical Engineering.

University of Montana – Missoula

The program at the University of Montana offers a BS in Electrical Engineering.

Montana Tech of the University of Montana – Butte

The program at Montana Tech offers a BS in Electrical Engineering.

Career Path for Electrical Engineers in Montana

Graduates with a degree in electrical engineering can pursue a wide range of career opportunities in various industries. Some popular career paths for electrical engineers in Montana include working in the renewable energy sector, designing and developing electronic systems and devices for transportation, telecommunications, and manufacturing industries, and working on the design, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment. With experience and further education, electrical engineers can also move into management positions or become consulting engineers.

Top Companies with Opportunities for Internships and Jobs

NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in Montana and has opportunities for electrical engineers to work on power generation, transmission, and distribution projects.

Blackfoot Telecommunications Group

Blackfoot Telecommunications Group is a telecommunications company in Montana that offers opportunities for electrical engineers to work on designing and maintaining telecommunications systems.

Wartsila

Wartsila is a global leader in smart technologies and services for the energy and marine industries that has a manufacturing facility in Montana and provides opportunities for electrical engineers to work on designing and developing power generation systems.

Boeing

Boeing has a manufacturing facility in Montana that provides opportunities for electrical engineers to work on designing and developing aerospace systems and equipment.

GE Renewable Energy

GE Renewable Energy has a manufacturing facility in Montana that provides opportunities for electrical engineers to work on designing and developing renewable energy systems.

Licenses or Certifications Required to Become an Electrical Engineer in Montana

In Montana, electrical engineers are not required to be licensed or certified to practice as an engineer. However, many electrical engineers choose to become licensed professional engineers (PE) to demonstrate their competence and credibility. To become a licensed PE in Montana, an individual must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, and have a certain amount of work experience. Additionally, engineers must also complete continuing education to maintain their license.

Job Market for Electrical Engineers in Montana

The job market for electrical engineers in Montana is considered to be good, with a projected growth rate of 20% from 2020 to 2030 according to O*Net Online. The growing renewable energy sector in Montana is expected to drive demand for electrical engineers, as well as the need to upgrade and maintain the state’s electrical infrastructure. Additionally, the state’s strong manufacturing and transportation industries will also provide opportunities for electrical engineers.

Salary for Electrical Engineers in Montana

According to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for electrical engineers in Montana was around $86,470 in 2021. Salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and the specific industry in which an electrical engineer is employed. Entry-level electrical engineers typically earn less than experienced engineers, while those in management positions or working in specialized industries may earn more.