As per the latest data published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 4,950 electrical engineers were employed in the state of Virginia in 2021. If you are interested in joining their ranks, then read this article for more information.

Do I need a license to work as an electrical engineer in Virginia?

Yes, you need a license to work as a professional electrical engineer in Virginia. The Virginia Board for Engineers and Land Surveyors issues licenses to qualified individuals who have met the education, experience, and examination requirements set by the state.

To obtain a license, you will need to have a degree in electrical engineering and pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, followed by the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam in electrical engineering. You may also need to meet the experience requirements, which typically involve working under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer for a certain number of years.

Professional Development and Continuing Education Options for Electrical Engineers in Virginia

Here are some options for professional development and continuing education for electrical engineers in Virginia:

  • IEEE Virginia Section: Provides educational workshops and conferences on latest trends and technologies in electrical engineering.
  • Old Dominion University: Offers master’s and doctoral degree programs in electrical engineering, as well as continuing education courses.
  • Virginia Tech: Provides a variety of graduate programs in electrical engineering and also offers non-degree continuing education courses.
  • Northern Virginia Community College: Offers certificate programs and courses in electrical engineering technology.
  • Virginia State University: Provides a bachelor’s degree program in electrical engineering, as well as continuing education opportunities.
  • Online courses and certification programs from reputable providers such as Coursera, Udemy, and others.
  • Professional organizations such as National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) also provide opportunities for professional development and networking.

Top Electrical Engineering Schools in Virginia

Here are some of the top electrical engineering schools in Virginia:

Virginia Tech

Offers a highly ranked electrical and computer engineering program with a focus on research and innovation.

Old Dominion University

Provides a strong electrical engineering program with a focus on renewable energy and sustainability.

George Mason University

Offers a well-regarded electrical and computer engineering program with specializations in areas such as communications and signal processing.

University of Virginia

Has a respected electrical and computer engineering program with a focus on interdisciplinary research and entrepreneurship.

College of William & Mary

Provides a strong electrical engineering program with a focus on energy, controls, and robotics.

Virginia Commonwealth University: Offers an electrical and computer engineering program with a focus on innovative research and hands-on learning opportunities.

Note: The ranking of the schools may change from year to year and can be impacted by various factors. It’s best to research and compare multiple schools to find the best fit for your needs and interests.

How to Get into Electrical Engineering in Virginia

Here are some steps to help you get into electrical engineering in Virginia:

  • Obtain a strong education: Start by getting a strong foundation in math, science, and technology. High school students should focus on courses such as physics, calculus, and computer science.
  • Pursue a degree in electrical engineering: You will need to complete a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field to become an electrical engineer. Consider looking into accredited engineering programs in Virginia or nearby states.
  • Gain relevant experience: Participating in internships, co-op programs, or volunteer projects related to electrical engineering can help you gain practical experience and build your resume.
  • Obtain licensure: In Virginia, the license for electrical engineers is issued by the Virginia Board for Contractors. The board is responsible for regulating and supervising the licensing of contractors in the state. To become licensed as an electrical contractor in Virginia, you must meet the qualifications established by the board, which include passing an exam and having a certain amount of experience in the electrical contracting field.
  • Continuously improve your skills: Staying current with the latest developments in electrical engineering requires ongoing learning and professional development. Consider attending conferences, workshops, and continuing education courses to stay up-to-date.

Note: Requirements may vary based on your career goals, employer, and the specific regulations in Virginia. It’s important to research and understand the specific requirements in your area.

Job Opportunities for Electrical Engineers in Virginia

There are many job opportunities for electrical engineers in Virginia due to the state’s strong economy and growing industries. Some of the top industries that offer job opportunities for electrical engineers in Virginia include:

Aerospace and defense

Virginia is home to a large aerospace and defense industry, with major players such as Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics.

Technology

Virginia is a hub for technology companies, including data centers, software development, and IT services.

Energy and utilities

The state’s growing energy sector provides job opportunities for electrical engineers in areas such as renewable energy, smart grid technology, and power generation.

Manufacturing

Virginia’s manufacturing sector, including electronics and machinery, provides job opportunities for electrical engineers in areas such as process improvement, automation, and product design.

Government

Virginia is home to a number of government agencies and military facilities, providing job opportunities for electrical engineers in areas such as research and development, systems engineering, and technology integration.

Some of the major cities in Virginia that offer job opportunities for electrical engineers include Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Northern Virginia (including Arlington and Fairfax).