The 21st century has brought exponential growth in technology. The scale and scope of current innovations has led many academics to call this period a “Fourth Industrial Revolution,” a transformation of humankind, which is changing how we live, work, and relate to each other.
These monumental changes and advancements haven’t been happening on their own; they’ve been driven by leaders in sectors from technology to transportation, and even retail. Some of the major innovators of today come from the computer engineering field, where computer engineers drive progress.
How are Computer Engineers Building the Infrastructure?
Computer engineers are on the front lines of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, creating hardware and software platforms that power just simply everything. They work with many different platforms that are essential for real-time data processing and connectivity from high-performing computing systems to embedded systems. Computer engineers also build processors and boards that are used in servers and routers.
Beyond these platforms, these engineers also design and implement network infrastructure. They develop and optimize data center networking, wireless infrastructure like Wi-fi, and optical fiber and switching systems. All of these technologies are vital for the operation of the digital world, so they set the scene for more advanced computing innovations.
How are They Driving Automation and AI?
Likely the most commonly discussed innovation of today, AI is a key piece of this new revolution. Computer engineers design the systems that run these artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms. They also build devices that apply AI in their use such as self-driving car systems and industrial robots.
These engineers work on all levels of AI, designing and optimizing the hardware that artificial intelligence runs on. Common examples are Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) and Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) which are both essential for learning models.
How are They Securing the Digital World?
Computer engineers aren’t just designing and building devices, they also work within cyber-physical systems. They lead efforts in cybersecurity, data encryption, and resilient system design. Their job is not only to make our systems smarter, but additionally to keep them safe and protect our private information.
One specific job of computer engineers is to design Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs) and Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) to protect keys from unauthorized access. More generally, they create secure embedded systems, build hardware to accelerate encryption, and design secure communication protocols. Overall, they work to keep new technologies from becoming vulnerable.
How are Computer Engineers Innovating at the Frontier?
These engineers are working to create new technologies that will shape the next wave of this Fourth Industrial Revolution. Computer engineers are contributing in research and development of quantum computing, neuromorphic chips, and brain-computer interfaces. All of these innovations are brand new, so the engineers working on them are trailblazers in the field.
As our society becomes more digitally dependent, new problems will emerge, so staying ahead of the game with new technologies is vital. These innovations also lead to smaller sizes, faster speeds, and improved efficiency in systems. Humankind is continually evolving, so we need people who can help evolve our technology to match.
Can I Help Lead the Digital Revolution?
If you want to become a leader in this revolutionary time, a Masters in computer engineering is a great first step. If you’re looking for a way to obtain a degree on your own time, SDSU Global Campus offers a Master of Science in Computer Engineering program that is 100% online.
This research-driven engineering program is led by the renowned faculty from SDSU’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. It can be completed in only 1.5 years, and due to its online nature, you can easily apply the skills you learn in your job the very next day.
Additionally, the SDSU GlobalFlex Master’s in Computer Engineering is offered for international students who start their program by completing the first semester of study remotely from their home country, and then come to SDSU to complete their second and third semesters in person in sunny San Diego.
Both programs are very intensive and hands-on. We’re training the next wave of technological innovators, and we take that responsibility very seriously. Apply today, and become an architect of the digital future!
