Configuration engineers are professionals who use math and science principles to control changes made to computer software, hardware, and testing tools in an effort to keep their companies’ information systems operating smoothly. They must make sure that any modifications made to one system to help accomplish a desired organizational task do not negatively affect other areas. If you desire to become a configuration engineer, you should complete at least four years of training after high school and acquire industry experience, but an additional two years of graduate school will increase your employment opportunities.
A person who wants to become a configuration engineer needs to major in engineering or computer science at the bachelor’s degree level. Your training program will typically take four years to complete and requires that you submit your high school diploma or the equivalent certification as part of the admissions process. The school might ask you to provide your standardized test results and will demand to see your transcript of high school courses as well as a completed enrollment application.
Computer technology courses are paramount in this area of study. You have to understand concepts such as programming methods and other software engineering principles if you wish to become a configuration engineer because you will be responsible for managing changes to computer information files as well as developing and customizing versions of software programs at an organization. Introductory engineering programs often include these types of computer science courses.
You need to find a company that will accept you as an intern by contacting your career service’s department for referrals as well. An internship is invaluable in this career area because it gives you the opportunity to create and troubleshoot computer programs as well as to implement the new software so that it is available for use. The experience additionally can teach you how to coordinate the objectives of several teams at an organization and hone your verbal and written communication skills.
Companies typically also look for people who have earned their master’s degrees in this industry. A master’s degree program in computer science, engineering, or even math will prepare you to become a configuration engineer by teaching you in-depth problem-solving skills in the field. Getting into graduate school requires that you provide your undergraduate course transcript along with proof of your bachelor’s degree. In addition, you must fill out the school’s admission form and might have to submit your graduate school entrance exam scores. Completion of an extensive thesis research project typically is part of your master’s degree training requirements before you can graduate and become a configuration engineer.
