You're an electrical designer looking to stay ahead of the curve. What technologies should you be learning?

1 Smart Grids

Smart grids are the future of power distribution and management. They use digital technology, sensors, and communication networks to monitor and optimize the flow of electricity from generation to consumption. Smart grids can improve reliability, efficiency, security, and sustainability of the power system. As an electrical designer, you should be familiar with the concepts and components of smart grids, such as smart meters, microgrids, distributed energy resources, demand response, and grid automation. You should also be able to use software tools and platforms to design, model, and simulate smart grid scenarios and solutions.

2 IoT Devices

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of physical devices, such as sensors, actuators, cameras, and wearables, that can collect and exchange data over the internet. IoT devices can enable various applications and services in domains such as health, agriculture, transportation, and industry. As an electrical designer, you should be able to design and integrate IoT devices into different systems and environments. You should also be able to use programming languages, such as Python, C, or Arduino, to code and control IoT devices. You should also be aware of the challenges and opportunities of IoT, such as security, privacy, interoperability, and scalability.

3 AI and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are the fields of computer science that deal with creating and applying algorithms that can learn from data and perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. AI and ML can enhance the capabilities and performance of electrical systems and devices, such as fault detection, optimization, prediction, and automation. As an electrical designer, you should be able to understand the basics and applications of AI and ML, such as neural networks, deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and reinforcement learning. You should also be able to use software tools and frameworks, such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or MATLAB, to implement and test AI and ML models and solutions.

4 PCB Design

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are the backbone of modern electronics. They are the boards that connect and support the components and circuits of electronic devices. PCB design is the process of creating and laying out the schematic and layout of a PCB. As an electrical designer, you should be able to design and produce high-quality PCBs that meet the specifications and requirements of your projects. You should also be able to use software tools and programs, such as KiCad, Eagle, or Altium, to design, simulate, and fabricate PCBs. You should also be familiar with the standards and best practices of PCB design, such as signal integrity, power integrity, EMC, and thermal management.

5 Renewable Energy

Renewable energy is the energy that comes from natural sources, such as solar, wind, hydro, and biomass. Renewable energy can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, diversify energy sources, and create new jobs and markets. As an electrical designer, you should be able to design and implement renewable energy systems and solutions, such as solar panels, wind turbines, hydroelectric generators, and battery storage. You should also be able to use software tools and models, such as HOMER, PVsyst, or RETScreen, to analyze and optimize the performance and economics of renewable energy systems. You should also be aware of the policies and regulations that affect the development and integration of renewable energy.

6 Virtual Reality

Virtual reality (VR) is the technology that creates and immerses users in a simulated and interactive environment. VR can be used for various purposes, such as entertainment, education, training, and visualization. As an electrical designer, you should be able to use VR to enhance your design process and outcomes. You should be able to use VR hardware and software, such as headsets, controllers, and platforms, to create and experience VR content. You should also be able to use VR tools and applications, such as Unity, Unreal Engine, or SketchUp, to design, model, and render electrical systems and devices in VR. You should also be aware of the benefits and challenges of VR, such as user engagement, realism, and motion sickness.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?