Exploring electrical engineering jobs in the military

Electrical engineering sounds like a great fit for me, but I'm also considering the military. How do electrical engineering jobs work within the military, and what should I focus on now if I'm interested?

The military offers a wealth of opportunities for those interested in electrical engineering. When it comes to electrical engineering, the military employs both enlisted personnel and officers in a wide variety of roles.

In the various branches of the military, electrical engineers are primarily responsible for the development, design, and management of electrical systems that are essential for military operations. These types of positions could be found in various military branches like the Navy, where electrical engineers might work on the radar systems for submarines, or in the Air Force, where they might be involved in the development of aircraft navigation or communications systems.

Additionally, the U.S. Army has a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) called 12P: Prime Power Production Specialist, where individuals could potentially work on the generation and distribution of electrical power in the field to support combat operations.

Now, in order to prepare yourself for a potential career as an electrical engineer in the military, there are a few paths you can take. One option is to pursue a degree in electrical engineering in college and subsequently apply as an officer. Attending school on an ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) scholarship or at a U.S. service academy like West Point or Annapolis could provide a more integrated path into a military engineering career.

However, you don't necessarily need a college degree to get started. The military also employs enlisted personnel in technical roles, generally after providing specialized training. In this case, you might enlist after high school and receive your electrical training through the military.

No matter which path you choose, the key is to focus on developing strong math and science skills, as they are critical for success in engineering. High school courses such as Physics, Chemistry, Calculus, and Computer Science can provide valuable foundational knowledge.

Remember to do thorough research and meet with military recruiters or speak with active duty or retired military engineers to gain more insight into whether a military electrical engineering job could be a good fit for you. This will also give you perspective on which branch of the military and which pathway aligns most with your goals.