The tech industry is one of the fastest-growing and most stable sectors on the planet right now. And there is almost no chance that it will slow down either. Many of the career paths in the tech field are extremely lucrative and appealing. With such high demand for more specialized positions popping up everyday, companies are steadily increasing their pay schemes and perks to entice potential recruits.
If you’re considering going into the world of tech then first off let us say welcome! You are taking a solid step towards a secure and bright future. But the first thing you will need to decide is what field of technology you want to pursue? Hardware or software? Now deciding on one field doesn’t mean you can’t also dip your toes into the other. But you will need vastly different qualifications and experience to advance in both fields. So you should decide early on what path is right for you.
This guide will give you an insight into the two different fields. The types of jobs you could secure along with the risks and rewards associated with both fields.
Hardware Engineering
If you grew up with a love of Lego then you might be destined for a path in hardware engineering. Hardware is the backbone of the technological world. And it is a field as old as human history. The invention of the wheel. Man mastering fire. The first lightbulb. All of these innovations sit firmly in the hardware world.
Modern hardware engineers work on a huge range of devices. Finding innovative ways to solve complex problems either on a grand or microscopic scale. From rocketship engines to the newest microprocessors. The average salary for a hardware engineer in Canada is roughly $117K. But this field has a lot of room for advancement and growth.
The primary qualification you will need is an engineering degree. But it also helps to have some experience in software development. Companies also look for people with creative qualifications too. Graphic design, 3D modeling, and any creative field that involves working with your hands can help you get an edge in the field.
The field of hardware engineering is one filled with risk. You will be working with potentially dangerous machinery and chemicals at times. So you will need to ensure you have good insurance. Most hardware development companies offer comprehensive health packages. But it helps to have your own insurance as well. There are many insurance firms that focus solely on those working in the engineering world. So you can find a personal injury lawyer for Calgary or whatever city you are working in with ease.
Engineers are in high demand in Canada at the moment. So you will want to ensure you stay active on Linkedin and keep networking throughout your career.
Software Development
If you grew up loving puzzles like Sudoku or spent a lot of time mesmerized by video games then you might be destined for a career in software development. In our modern age programmers are in high demand. Especially those specializing in AI development.
Modern software developers work on a huge range of products. Video games, AI, mobile apps. You name it. Nearly every industry on the planet is digitizing itself. So there are ample job opportunities out there. The average salary for a software engineer in Canada is $81K a year. But the good thing about working in software is the ability to work completely remote. Meaning you have global job opportunities at all times.
You will primarily need a degree in programming or computer science. And it helps to have some experience in engineering or mathematics. You will want to learn a diverse range of coding languages. The most used languages are Javascript, Python, SQL, and HTML. But we recommend learning as much as possible.
The physical risks associated with being a software engineer are slim. But there is a lot less job security in this field as opposed to working in hardware. Especially if you are working in a smaller company. With the market being so competitive it isn’t unusual for companies to suddenly hit hard times and shut down completely. So it is vitally important that you keep networking throughout your career and update your resume constantly.
Which Field Is For You?
There is nothing stopping you from working in both fields eventually. But, as you first start out you should focus on mastering one. If you love working with your hands and being able to hold your creations physically then hardware is the world for you.If you love solving puzzles and watching a complex system form before your eyes then software development is the path for you.
We are lucky that here in Calgary, and in many Canadian cities, the universities offer amazing programs that will help you break into either field with ease. So spend some time researching possible career paths. Speak to different company recruiters and experienced engineers and software developers. And good luck on your technological adventure!