By Nicholas Pell • Updated Aug 30, 2022
Electrical engineering remains one of the most rewarding STEM careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electrical engineers was $85,350 in May 2008. While a bachelor’s degree is typically required, you can still explore the field through hands‑on projects that range from simple kits to complex prototypes.
Classic 1950s science‑fiction movies owe much of their eerie ambiance to the theremin, an electronic instrument that produces a haunting, pitch‑gliding sound. Building a full‑size theremin can cost up to $400, but a pocket‑sized version can be assembled for under $20 and in less than three hours, according to Popular Science. The miniature device is light‑sensitive, so it works best in low‑lighting conditions, and it runs on a single 9‑volt battery sourced from a local electronics shop.
Creating a simple, reliable USB charger is an excellent introduction to power‑management circuitry. A description in Maximum PC magazine calls the design “about as simple as a circuit can get.” After wiring the basic circuit, you can encase it in electrical tape and mount it in a repurposed tin can, giving you a compact, portable charger.
Autonomous driving represents one of the most ambitious and impactful engineering endeavors today. IEEE students have been building small, motorized vehicles equipped with infrared sensors to practice path following, turning, and stopping—essential skills for future self‑driving cars. These projects demonstrate how electrical engineers can create safer, smarter transportation systems.
Prosthetics is another area where electrical engineering directly improves lives. Using a LEGO Mindstorms NXT kit, IEEE students assemble a small robotic arm capable of lifting everyday objects, such as coffee mugs. The exercise teaches precision, rapid prototyping, and the relationship between supply voltage and motor speed—core concepts for any aspiring engineer.
