If you wish to become an illuminating engineer, you will usually need to complete a four-year program from an accredited institution, earning a specific degree in engineering or an advanced technical degree in the art or science of illumination. While there are many rankings and certifications for different types of illumination professionals and technicians, with a variety of one- or two-year training programs, it takes more comprehensive training to actually become an illuminating engineer, requiring both engineering and specialized skills.
Illuminating engineer duties are many and very technical. You may be responsible for designing and directing the installation of different kinds illuminating equipment in many different environments, including buildings, factories, street systems, and stadiums. There are many engineering challenges involved that require an advanced understanding of electricity, lamps, reflectors, lenses, and various illuminating or engineering code specifications and standards.
Illuminating engineer careers can start after complete training, or at the entry level with a number of technical certifications. Those working in the industry will sometimes gain extensive illumination experience before completing their engineering degrees. You can become a certified professional without advancing all the way to the rank of engineer right away, or you can focus on a bachelor's degree and complete your education before entering the field.
Courses you are required to take to become an illuminating engineer include general studies courses in addition to specific engineering and lighting curricula. One of the first and most important classes might be fundamentals of lighting, which is often a several module course that covers the history of lighting, electrical light sources, lamps and ballasts, control systems, photometry, and interior and exterior lighting. Other courses may cover each of these topics at a more advanced level.
In some countries there are organizations or associations that oversee illuminating engineers and accredit education programs. It's important to conduct one's training under the umbrella of such organizations if you want to be fully recognized when you become an illuminating engineer. You might also wish to join such organizations, which can benefit your career path and lend authority to your credentials. In some cases, anyone can become an associate member, with full membership requiring a degree and possibly a number of years of experience working in the industry.
To become an illuminating engineer takes hard work, study, and discipline. You'll need both hard and soft skills to make it as a professional. For complete details about programs and career paths, contact your local university or technical college, or look into regulatory or accreditation bodies which oversee the industry in your area.
