A career in Computer Systems Engineering encompasses many variables. Any of the varied opportunities in this field focus mainly on the design of computer systems. Unlike other types of employment, where duties are usually well defined, Computer Systems Engineering jobs vary widely in their purpose and responsibilities. While all jobs differ from employer to employer, Computer Systems Engineers encounter a surprising range of possibilities . The University of Southern Queensland states this very well on their website:

“Opportunities in this field range from product design, especially for 'special-purpose' computer control systems, to network engineering and some areas which you might not expect, such as computer aids for the disabled. Many opportunities exist in both government and private industry. The types of industry which employ computer systems engineering graduates are not limited to computer companies. Many different types of industries employ engineers with these skills, as most industries are heavily dependent on computers for their everyday operations. “ (Computer Systems Engineering, 2007).

No matter where they are employed, Computer Systems Engineers must supply their clients with the equipment needed to operate at maximum efficiency. After deducing the best option for a companies needs, the Systems Engineers put the plan into action. This may involve procuring, installing, and troubleshooting a network of computers or designing the actual software itself. Whether they are working solo, as a consultant, or with a team of software engineers and other professionals, they are responsible for creating and selling computer services. At http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-computer-systems-engineer.htm they summarize some of the duties of a Computer Systems Engineer:

“A computer systems engineer is a representative of a company that creates and sells computer equipment. The systems engineer will work to match up the products offered by the firm with the needs of a client. In many cases, this will involve getting to know the corporate culture of the client. As part of that process, the computer systems engineer will seek to meet not only the expressed needs of the client, but also look for additional ways to make the installation of the computer systems more advantageous for the customer.”

To meet a clients needs a Computer Systems Engineer must posses a wide range of technical skills. “Services provided by this industry include custom computer programming services; computer systems design services; computer facilities management services, including computer systems or data processing facilities support services; and other computer-related services such as disaster recovery and software installation ” (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2008). Programming languages like C++, Visual Basic, COBOL, JAVA, PHP, .NET, and more are essential. Even if programing a new program or update to an older program is unnecessary, the knowledge of how programs talk to each other will help in any situation dealing with their software. Knowing how they interact can help Computer Systems Engineers approach problems with creativity and inspiration. Experience with many variates of software is another set of skills needed. Database software like Excel, SQL, Oracle, and many others are often used in many companies. Linking these up to provide information to various employees using office applications is often necessary. This requires knowledge of networking. Knowing how to setup LANs, WANs, and other network types requires in depth knowledge of their protocols like WINSOCK and TCIP. In addition to intangible skills like those mentioned above, a good Computer Systems Engineer must be skilled in all aspects of hardware as well. They should be able to set up basic computer systems, connect them --with routers, links, switches, network cards and other peripheral hardware – , and troubleshoot problems with them quickly and efficiently. Some other of the many hardware skills needed include; installing hard drives and/or operating systems on hard drives, installing RAM, installing graphics cards, installing central processing units, providing data recovery, insuring protection with proper electronic safety devices, and knowing how to set up a BIOS.

Being a Computer Systems Engineer not only requires varied technical skills but varied communication skills as well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics itself states that:
“ Engineers should be creative, inquisitive, analytical, and detail oriented. They should be able to work as part of a team and to communicate well, both orally and in writing. Communication abilities are becoming increasingly important as engineers frequently interact with specialists in a wide range of fields outside engineering ” (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2007). In person communication is as essential to Computer Systems Engineering as the communication between the different modes of technology. Verbal communication provides valuable non-verbal clues not available communication with email and other on-line communication. This can help one to better deduce a client feelings towards ideas or suggestions for example. A little empathy and compassion goes a long way in any job. As Trinity College says, at their website “...Computer engineers need not only to understand how computer systems themselves work, but also how they integrate into the larger picture...” (http://www.tcd.ie/Engineering/about/what_is_eng/computer_eng_intro.html). Ethical communication across synchronous and asynchronous modes is a professionals priority. Writing, emailing, posting, texting and even talking must be done with truth, precision, vision, and non-discrimination. I also believe there is a need for more modern media via pod casts, vlogs, and other training material for Computer Systems engineers over the Internet.

I hope to pursue this job because I enjoy this type of work. I think I would be suitable dealing with many of the duties required. While I still have much to learn, I am already experienced with some of the required skills in this type of industry. Knowledge of some programming languages – C++, Visual Basic, and HTML – , verbal and non verbal communication skills, mathematical skills, and customer service skills, give me a good base in essential parts of this job. By taking some electives in programming and studying myself at http://www.w3school.com I will expand my knowledge base and employability while attaining my degree at the same time. With an entry level minimum pay rate of around $50,000 I have faith I will be able to provide for my parents and grandparents in the future. By applying the skills and income from a good paying job I hope to start my own technology company one day. It is important for me over all, to keep my my open to what the Lord wants me to do in life and spread His glory in all things. A personal long term calling of mine is to help stop the horror of human trafficking in the world today. By helping us to better communicate with the rest of the world, we can help to ease the suffering of as many people as possible.

The few weeks in this class have taught me many things. It showed me the importance of proper research into a career. A job may be very different than you think it is, and In order to be good at a job, you must know everything about it and then some. I learned everything I know about Computer Systems Engineering during this class. I don't know everything, but I am much better prepared now. My previous assumptions about it were way off. The knowledge of APA style gained through the duration of this class is invaluable. I feel I shall be much better prepared in all of my academic and personal writing. More creative and less rigid sentence structure comes to me much easier after my studies here. A better knowledge of the research process is another result. A researcher is only as good as their sources. While places like wikipedia are good for general knowledge, a more in depth and respectable resource is recommended for academic sources and quotes. By learning to communicate more effectively I am better equipped not only in my search for employment in my chosen career, but all aspects of my life. Last but not least, I have gained valuable first time experience in an on-line classroom at Walden University. Sure, I have made some mistakes, but I feel confident I shall not make them again. Learning how to contact staff, students, and other University resources was a great boon.

In summary, I learned valuable skill information about; Computer Systems Engineering, on-line education at Walden, proper research, previously unknown uses for popular social networking sites, and vastly improved my communication skills.

Thanks to my Professors at Walden University

References

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Career Guide to Industries, 2008-09 Edition, Computer Systems Design and Related Services. Retrieved April 05, 2009, from http:// www.bls.gov/oco/cg/cgs033.htm
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Engineers. Retrieved April 05, 2009, from http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm
Computer Systems Engineering. (2007, August 3). University of south Queensland. Retrieved Arpil 4th, 2009, from www.usq.au/engsurv/areas/compsys.htm

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