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Job outlook for senior network engineers in the United States
Senior network engineer job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected senior network engineer job growth rate is 5% from 2018-2028.
About 18,200 new jobs for senior network engineers are projected over the next decade.
Senior network engineer salaries have increased 9% for senior network engineers in the last 5 years.
There are over 116,120 senior network engineers currently employed in the United States.
There are 35,428 active senior network engineer job openings in the US.
The average senior network engineer salary is $111,707.
Are senior network engineer jobs in demand?
Senior network engineer job and salary trends over time
Senior network engineer jobs over time
Senior network engineer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 116,120 | 0.03% |
| 2020 | 89,383 | 0.03% |
| 2019 | 48,158 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 41,054 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 42,040 | 0.01% |
Average senior network engineer salary over time
Senior network engineer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $111,707 | $53.71 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $108,026 | $51.94 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $105,580 | $50.76 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $104,358 | $50.17 | +1.8% |
| 2021 | $102,556 | $49.31 | +2.4% |
Senior network engineer jobs by state
Most common states for senior network engineers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 346 | 50% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,438 | 17% |
| 3 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 921 | 15% |
| 4 | Alaska | 739,795 | 97 | 13% |
| 5 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 552 | 10% |
| 6 | Vermont | 623,657 | 65 | 10% |
| 7 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 543 | 8% |
| 8 | Delaware | 961,939 | 78 | 8% |
| 9 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 500 | 7% |
| 10 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 223 | 7% |
| 11 | Hawaii | 1,427,538 | 99 | 7% |
| 12 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 91 | 7% |
| 13 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 603 | 6% |
| 14 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 269 | 6% |
| 15 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 268 | 6% |
| 16 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 54 | 6% |
| 17 | California | 39,536,653 | 2,010 | 5% |
| 18 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 353 | 5% |
| 19 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 58 | 5% |
| 20 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 31 | 5% |
Most common cities for senior network engineers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Annapolis | 22 | 56% | $107,008 |
| 2 | Bethesda | 31 | 51% | $106,633 |
| 3 | Washington | 61 | 9% | $111,435 |
| 4 | Tampa | 17 | 5% | $92,742 |
| 5 | Atlanta | 20 | 4% | $98,706 |
| 6 | Orlando | 11 | 4% | $92,080 |
| 7 | Boston | 19 | 3% | $110,289 |
| 8 | San Diego | 25 | 2% | $127,414 |
| 9 | Las Vegas | 13 | 2% | $114,595 |
| 10 | Baltimore | 11 | 2% | $107,113 |
| 11 | Denver | 11 | 2% | $92,519 |
| 12 | Chicago | 26 | 1% | $101,259 |
| 13 | Phoenix | 19 | 1% | $102,327 |
| 14 | Houston | 18 | 1% | $103,931 |
| 15 | San Jose | 13 | 1% | $146,171 |
| 16 | Charlotte | 12 | 1% | $98,868 |
| 17 | Dallas | 11 | 1% | $102,656 |
| 18 | Indianapolis | 11 | 1% | $93,149 |
| 19 | New York | 19 | 0% | $112,836 |
Senior Network Engineer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of senior network engineer experts
California State University - East Bay
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Xavier University
East Tennessee State University
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Liberty University
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Northern Michigan University
Villanova University
Elon University
University of Illinois
Merrimack College
Marietta College
University of Maryland
University of Baltimore
Crafton Tull
Villanova University
Lake Superior State University
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.
Professor of Computer Science and Computer EngineeringCalifornia State University - East Bay
Computer Systems Networking And Telecommunications
What general advice would you give to a Senior Network Engineer?
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.: *The anxiety of AI is likely to change the landscape of computer networking, is a real threat but in my opinion, it won't eliminate the need for human network engineers. The focus will likely shift towards more strategic tasks, complex problem-solving, and leveraging AI tools to improve network efficiency and security.*
*Here again, I will explain in more detail about the expectation and future of Comp. Network Eng.*
* 1. AI Augments, Not Replaces: While AI can automate some network tasks, like data analysis and basic troubleshooting, it won't replace the need for human network engineers. It will increase the productivity for sure; Complex problem-solving, strategic decision-making, and human judgment are still crucial in network management. AI will likely become a valuable tool that assists network engineers in their tasks, making them more efficient.*
*2. Growing Demand: Our reliance on technology and data is constantly increasing. Businesses and organizations need secure, reliable networks to function. This necessitates a skilled workforce to design, implement, maintain, and secure these networks. The demand for qualified network engineers is expected to grow in the coming years.*
*In our technology horizon, I can see the quantum internet coming and I can see the demand for network engineering accelerate.*
*3. Diverse Skillset: A strong foundation in computer networking equips you with a versatile skillset. You'll understand network protocols, security concepts, and troubleshooting methodologies. These skills are valuable across the IT field and can be applied to areas like cloud computing, data center operations, or even cybersecurity. Data Centers for AI are becoming a huge opportunity for Comp Network Eng.*
What Senior Network Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.: *Favor:*
*Variety: Each day presents new challenges and opportunities for problem-solving.*
*Demand: The field offers strong job growth and stability.*
*Impact: Your work ensures businesses and organizations remain connected and operational.*
*Learning: There's always something new to learn with emerging technologies.*
*Dislike:*
*Troubleshooting: Issues can be complex and take a lot of time to resolve.*
*On-call: Network problems can occur at any time, requiring on-call availability.*
*Pressure: Maintaining network uptime can be stressful, especially during critical periods.*
*Keeping Up-to-Date: Rapid technological changes necessitate continuous learning.*
What will help Senior Network Engineers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Bobby Roohparvar Ph.D.: *Computer Networking Engineers are crucial in designing, building, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex networks. They need strong technical skills, analytical abilities, and strategic thinking to ensure smooth network operations.*
*A bit more detailed explanation of the Computer Networking Engineers responsibility:*
*Designing and Implementing Networks: This essential task involves creating new networks or significantly upgrading existing ones. It includes understanding organizational requirements, planning capacity, selecting the right hardware and software, and configuring these components for optimal performance and security.*
*Network Automation: Engineers automate routine tasks using scripting languages like Python or tools such as Cisco automation software. This automation not only saves time but also ensures consistent configurations.*
*Troubleshooting Complex Issues: They tackle intricate network problems by analyzing traffic patterns, identifying bottlenecks, optimizing performance, and resolving complex connectivity or security issues.*
*Staying Updated with Technology: As the networking field evolves rapidly, engineers must keep up with new technologies, emerging security threats, and best practices through conferences, online forums, and continuous learning.*
What Senior Network Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Todd Allen: - analyzing systems, including technical and social implications, of engineering solutions
What will help Senior Network Engineers increase their earning potential?
Todd Allen: -work hard to develop professional networks
- get the details right
- the way you present is as important as your technical knowledge
What general advice would you give to a Senior Network Engineer?
Todd Allen: - take jobs where you can build new skills while proving your professional competence. This philosophy, throughout your career, will lead to further growth opportunities
Laura Kier
Network Design and Administration InstructorWhat general advice would you give to a Senior Network Engineer?
Laura Kier: Students graduating from the Computer Network Design and Administration program will enter the job market with a solid foundation in networking technologies. Above that they should also be able to develop and demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Networking has a strong emphasis on teamwork and being able to communicate well with customers, co-workers and teammates is vital. Attaining certifications in Cisco, Linux, Windows, and security will also help the student stand out within the industry (classes in the program help to learn the knowledge needed to attain certifications). Students should participate in any local or online communities and groups to enhance skills and knowledge and find networking opportunities.
What Senior Network Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Laura Kier: Computer Networking is a dynamic field with a wide variety of opportunities in many different industries. Some skills that will be more important in general are skills in software defined networking and automation. Skills in the DevOps field will be necessary, as well as skills leveraging AI tools. Cybersecurity is always important and using AI tools to enhance security and monitoring is necessary.
What will help Senior Network Engineers increase their earning potential?
Asad Salem Ph.D: Cultivate a well-rounded skill set, encompassing interpersonal, communication, teamwork, work ethics, and self-learning capabilities, to propel your career forward. Foster a curious mindset, actively seek feedback, and confront challenges with confidence. In a dynamic professional landscape, prioritize adaptability and continuous learning. Strike a harmonious balance between a solid technical foundation and crucial soft skills, such as effective communication and teamwork. Stay abreast of industry developments, take a proactive stance, and seek mentorship for effective career navigation. Develop a robust technical base while valuing soft skills, staying informed about industry trends, taking initiative, and securing mentors to guide you through your career journey.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Network Engineer?
Asad Salem Ph.D: To optimize your engineering salary potential, meticulously delve into industry salary benchmarks. Beyond excelling in your academic pursuits, acquire hands-on experience through research, internships, or co-op opportunities. Exhibit relevant skills and project accomplishments, consider pursuing advanced areas of expertise or certifications, and approach job offers with confidence during negotiations. Moreover, augment this strategy by actively engaging in networking, staying attuned to market inclinations, and showcasing a willingness to take on demanding projects. By emphasizing your dedication and proactively contributing, you can fortify your commitment and bolster your long-term earnings prospects in the dynamic field of engineering.
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer
Professor and ChairXavier University
Department Of Physics
What skills stand out on Senior Network Engineer resumes?
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer: Programming languages, numerical design and simulation tools, knowledge of various measurement equipment.
What soft skills should all Senior Network Engineers possess?
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer: Communication, teamwork.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Senior Network Engineers?
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer: Depends on the engineering career, but in general, an ability to know how to use design software, measurement/testing, and analysis equipment, in addition to prototyping and fabrication tools
What skills will help Senior Network Engineers earn the most?
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer: Problem-solving, troubleshooting, independent learner.
Jared Wilson
Assistant Professor and Faculty CoordinatorEast Tennessee State University
Surveying and Mapping
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Network Engineers?
Jared Wilson: The information I have been provided is positive when the outlook is concerning the workload that is being performed by the professional industry. Land surveying, and subsequently, land surveyors, have been deemed essential; thus, work is still being performed. The profession, as a whole, is driven highly by the status of the economy, and in the current economic state, the current workload is in demand. Thus, graduates should be able to find gainful employment regardless of the impact COVID-19 has. As with all professions, adaptation is necessary, and the profession is adapting well.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Senior Network Engineers to find work opportunities?
Jared Wilson: Within the field of land surveying and related employment opportunities, work is available. However, in my experience, work may not be in the exact location a person wishes to live. So, a move may be necessary, or potentially traveling to where the work is located. Should a graduate, or person for that matter, want to work, work is available.
Dr. Sohrab Asgarpoor
Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs, Professor of Electrical and Computer EngineeringUniversity of Nebraska–Lincoln
College of Engineering
How do you envision technology impacting Senior Network Engineers in the next 5 years?
Dr. Sohrab Asgarpoor: Adopting new technology should be an exciting (and expected) reality for those with an engineering degree. The virtual space will continue to grow as folks seek jobs and work online more. But what holds paramount, no matter what particular technological changes arise, is the ability to adapt-and to demonstrate that critical aptitude in their application documents and through their interviews, always highlighting those moments they've done so and articulating their propensity for learning.
What experience really stands out on Senior Network Engineer resumes?
Robert Rich: -Certification such as green belt, black-belt, machine learning, Lean Manufacturing, and APICS supply chain/inventory
-Specialized undergraduate research projects that go deep into various leading-edge topics like integrating AI with manufacturing and logistics
-Consulting experience/real projects within areas of undergraduate research
Dr. Galen Duree
Head of the Department of Physics and Optical Engineering and ProfessorRose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Department of Physics and Optical Engineering
What experience really stands out on Senior Network Engineer resumes?
Dr. Galen Duree: It depends on what you are applying for. If you are working on product development, then internships or co-ops provide a definite advantage. If you are working on developing new ways of doing things, research experiences in academia or companies are advantageous. Either case, this shows a certain maturity in your career path - you have participated in an activity related to the career you are currently pursuing.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Senior Network Engineers in the next 3-5 years?
Dr. Galen Duree: People with knowledge, even introductory experience, in quantum effects, quantum computing, optics in general (communication, measurements, imaging, illumination, detection), material science and engineering, biotechnology, and nanotechnology, will be in high demand.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Network Engineers?
Michael Rudisill: It depends on what you really mean by enduring, but for all practical purposes, once the pandemic has passed, the economy will return, and anyone in the engineering field who wants a job will have many opportunities. Obviously, the short-term effect can be brutal for new graduates as jobs are not as plentiful as "usual"-but in the long term, those that persevere will end up in great careers. In some ways, it will be harder on the senior engineers who haven't stayed employed, as they are missing out on years when their income should be the highest. New graduates are missing relatively low earning years, so the long-term effects should not be as bad looking at lifetime earnings.
How do you envision technology impacting Senior Network Engineers in the next 5 years?
Michael Rudisill: Technology will continue to advance-which will increase the need for trained engineers. Even areas such as sales that not many people would think would be looking for engineers when dealing with technologically advanced products need people who understand how the product works, perform, etc.-in other words-trained engineers.
How would you rate the starting salaries for Senior Network Engineers, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?
Michael Rudisill: From what we've seen, salaries haven't been reduced, even though demand is down. I would expect wages and salary progression to remain strong as the need for engineering will only continue to grow.
Dr. Sridhar Santhanam Ph.D.
Professor and ChairVillanova University
Department of Mechanical Engineering
What experience really stands out on Senior Network Engineer resumes?
Dr. Sridhar Santhanam Ph.D.: Well, thought out academic and extracurricular experiences can make a big difference to a resume. Academically, choosing a minor that complements the major can catch the eye of a prospective employer. Most mechanical engineering programs today offer students flexibility in constructing their curriculum; many students take advantage of this by adding a minor or a concentration. Internships during the summers or the academic year are another great way to stand out. Employers are always looking for someone with work experience in a professional setting. An internship experience, paid or unpaid, provides an excellent opportunity to learn many critical workplace skills, such as communication and professionalism. Yet another activity that future employers value highly is involvement in extracurricular clubs that engage in hands-on engineering projects such as the Formula SAE, AIAA Design/Build/Fly, and the MATE ROV.
What Senior Network Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Sridhar Santhanam Ph.D.: In a gap year, graduates could consider retooling themselves by acquiring advanced knowledge and skills. Graduate school provides a perfect avenue for this. Enrolling in a Masters's program that aligns with one's interests and aptitudes can be an excellent investment. Many graduate schools also offer shorter certificate programs targeted to specific sub-disciplines within mechanical engineerings, such as robotics, sustainable energy, or additive manufacturing. Certificates can be obtained in a calendar year, or less, and can significantly bolster one's resume in preparation for exploring the job market after the gap year. Several programs offer online graduate classes, thereby providing convenience and accessibility to students.
What type of skills will young Senior Network Engineers need?
John Ring: While our universities consistently educate engineering students with hard skills and strong engineering fundamentals, tomorrow's engineers need to be strong communicators, collaborators, and critical thinkers. Our professional environments are filled with data and information, and the constraint is typically how much time individuals can dedicate to solving a problem. At Elon University, we educate tomorrow's engineers to have the hard skills necessary to analyze the information and situations, apply critical thinking techniques to determine ways to solve the issue, and then concisely and efficiently communicate with colleagues as solutions are being set in motion.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Senior Network Engineers to find work opportunities?
John Ring: Our engineering graduates' geographic work opportunities are more a function of where the student chooses to live and work. A BS in Engineering requires an engineering graduate complete coursework in mechanical and electrical engineering topics and applying it in design courses. These fundamental skills cross over several industries, including biopharma, software engineering, aerospace/defense, civil, environmental, and chemical engineering. If one sector employs engineers, a BS Engineering preps the student with the necessary skills to gain entry.
How do you envision technology impacting Senior Network Engineers in the next 5 years?
John Ring: An engineering student learns "how to learn" during their time in college. Technology will evolve, and tomorrow's engineers must learn at the same pace so that new technology can be applied to solve a problem.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Network Engineers?
Bruce Flachsbart: Yes, I believe there will be an enduring change to the society that will exist after this pandemic:
-Wearing face coverings in public will be more accepted and continue, especially during flu season, and by those with health concerns.
-There will be less hand-shaking when people meet, especially in business settings. This cultural practice may eventually die out.
-Because of the above, I think the flu season will be milder in the future-we are becoming well trained on how to not spread a virus.
-I think in the future more virus tests will become available, and someday before entering an airplane or attending an expensive event, people will need to be tested. With speed and costs improvements there likely will be more applications of entrance virus testing.
Rickey Caldwell Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Mechanical EngineeringMerrimack College
Departmet of Mechanical Engineering
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Network Engineers?
Rickey Caldwell Ph.D.: In terms of job opportunities, no. It may take longer to secure that first job, and it may be an employer's job market for the next several years. This means starting salaries may not be as high as a year ago, and yearly raises may be near zero up to 3% (depending on career fields and markets). Additionally, some benefits, such as tuition reimbursement, may not be available at some companies.
However, I strongly suspect that things will get better (as a wild guess) in 3 - 5 years as the economy rebounds. For the immediate future, the full economic effects of the pandemic have not been fully realized. As companies restructure to deal with their impact on their bottom lines and workers are laid-off, more experienced employees are entering the job marking and seeking jobs. This is very similar to the financial system crash around 2008, so that could be referenced for a similar environment, especially its effect on the Midwest. Job seekers must be persistent.
For enduring changes, the pandemic has presented a great opportunity to change the nature of where we do work. This experiment has been tried before at places like Yahoo, for example. Pre-pandemic, some companies allowed workers to work from home several times per month under flexible scheduling. I believe the coronavirus pandemic will make these types of work options a larger part of the business workplace culture. Additionally, many companies are actively working to enhance their diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. With this renewed attention, there may be more opportunities for workers that are women, BIPOC, LBGQT+, and others to rewrite and form new workplace norms to have new working environments. I strongly encourage people to take their seats at this table and create the world you wish to work in.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Senior Network Engineers to find work opportunities?
Rickey Caldwell Ph.D.: The engineering centers of the US seem to have strong job markets. Boston, West Coast, Silicon Prairie, DC area are just a few. There are employment opportunities in every industry and every state. It just may take 6 - 18 months to land that first job. Students may have to cast a bigger and wider search net. For example, if you only want to work in city A, it may take longer to find a job. A better strategy is to search regionally. For example, New England, Mid Atlantic, or the Southwest. Additionally, there are sectors that are always looking for new talent, such as energy production, food companies such as Unilever, and the civilian government work at federally funded research and development laboratories (FFRDC) and University Affiliated Research Centers (UARC) such as The MITRE Corporation and the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Network Engineers?
Ben Ebenhack: I believe that the impact of the pandemic on the US economy is still unfolding and that we won't be able to see any kind of robust turnaround until vaccines are widely available and seen, in practice, to be effective. Until that time, I suspect that we'll continue to see a lot of volatility as investors speculate about recovery, reopening, etc., but the trends will probably vacillate.
Once the pandemic is clearly seen to be reasonably well-controlled, I think that there will be a good deal of pent-up demand for energy and its services. I expect to see a modest recovery in energy prices, but that may not translate to jobs for a few years. Ultimately, the world's need for energy will drive prices up, and there will probably be another boom. Everyone should remember that half of humanity (~3.5 billion people) lack access to modern energy, on which development depends. With global economic recovery, I would expect that to apply considerable upward pressure on energy (and related resource) demands for the next several decades. Alternative energy will continue to grow, but I don't think it can grow as fast as some optimists expect.
How do you envision technology impacting Senior Network Engineers in the next 5 years?
Ben Ebenhack: Technology radically transformed American oil and gas production a little over ten years ago, by opening up the shale plays. That will continue to evolve and remain important in the medium term, I think. We may see some of the technological developments opening new opportunities in geothermal power production.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Network Engineers?
Craig Carignan: Yes, it will have an enduring impact on aerospace grads, especially those going into aeronautical engineering. The airline industry has been hit especially hard by the pandemic, and commercial aircraft manufacture has come to a screeching halt. That means not just the airplane manufacturers being affected but all of the hundreds of aircraft parts suppliers too. The other factor is that people are learning how to attend conferences and meetings virtually, through applications like Zoom and Teams, which also saves a lot of money on travel. So even when things do start returning to normal, I think that the demand for air travel will not return to the same levels as before.
Some long term impact may also be felt by the space industry. Even though there are quarantine precautions in place (before and after a flight), human space flight might be seen as riskier due to possible infection from viruses that may not show symptoms. So we might try to do more from the ground using robotics. Also, the density of workers in a lot of places in the aerospace industry is very high, and I would expect telecommuting to become more common.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Network Engineers?
Dr. Giovanni Vincenti: COVID-19 put into perspective the importance of technology for everyone. Those people who would typically work in fully staffed offices and took IT systems for granted have now realized how the lack of dedicated personnel and resources is a significant issue as everyone is working from home. The same realization has also reached upper-management, often creating a nearly immediate need for innovation that would have otherwise remained just a plan for the future. Graduates in the IT field and technology, in general, will benefit from this realization, as projects move from the planning stage into implementation and eventually maintenance. This increment in reliance on IT-related resources will create a greater need for employment.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Senior Network Engineers to find work opportunities?
Dr. Giovanni Vincenti: Cities that are typically associated with technology will probably remain hubs of innovation, especially if they have local administrations that are favorable towards entrepreneurship. However, the recent need for companies to leverage the ability to work remotely has opened up the possibilities of workers who may not otherwise be willing to relocate. This trend is probably here to stay for a while, so the ability of graduates to work with virtual collaborators will bring tech jobs to parts of the country that are not typically known for innovation. Even though there probably will not be clusters that will identify new equivalents of Silicon Valley out of nowhere, the fact that the reach of potential employees has extended beyond their geographical immediacy will create major opportunities for any location.
How do you envision technology impacting Senior Network Engineers in the next 5 years?
Dr. Giovanni Vincenti: Technology will take an ever more prominent role in any field over the next few years. However, it is important for companies to realize that someone who is somewhat familiar with IT probably will not have the same expertise as a trained technologist. Whether we are creating mobile applications, finding new ways to deliver physical products, or ways to facilitate the workflow when people are working remotely, technology will remain the unifying foundation across most fields and gain significant importance in the list of essential assets for operations continuity.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Network Engineer?
Libby Toping: It has definitely been a unique time to start my first job. COVID-19 has caused many of my peers to struggle to find a job, so I think it has caused me to recognize how thankful I am to have a job that I enjoy working and that allows me to improve my community, even in the midst of a pandemic. There are certainly struggles with virtual meetings and mask-wearing, but learning to be flexible and adaptable are skills that I think will make me a better engineer in the long run!
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Senior Network Engineers in the next 3-5 years?
Andrea Welker Ph.D.: Virtual/augmented reality will play an increasingly important role in visualizing designs and interacting with them.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Network Engineers?
Andrea Welker Ph.D.: Travel will be significantly impacted for a long while. It will be fascinating to see if the pandemic slows or reverses the increasing urbanization we saw before. Medical devices and supplies may be on more of a fast track. Offices will be slow to repopulate. Do we need all of this office space if people can work at home effectively?
More immediately, we found that our graduates did fine with finding jobs, but many internships dried up. I hope that employers remember that in a few years when those students don’t have has many courses as students did in the past.
What general advice would you give to a Senior Network Engineer?
Andrea Welker Ph.D.: Be open to new experiences. Find a good mentor. Become a valued employee. Always remember that you are designing something for someone.
Edoardo Sarda Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Robotics EngineeringLake Superior State University
Mechanical Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Senior Network Engineer?
Edoardo Sarda Ph.D.: Flexibility has become a key asset for new graduates, due to the current COVID19 pandemic. Fortunately, engineers are still in high demand. Even fresh graduates may need to seek opportunities and accept positions working in areas that were not exactly what they had in mind while in college. Besides, the pandemic has created a reality where specific industries are struggling while others are booming. That will undoubtedly impact the demand for new engineers. Lastly, since the United States took a non-uniform approach to fight the pandemic, where every state is independently deciding how to reopen, leading to some states being stricter than others, in addition to new epicenters forming in different areas of the country at different times, new grads may not necessarily end up in the geographical location they may have originally planned.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Senior Network Engineers?
Edoardo Sarda Ph.D.: The short answer is yes, and there will be. I believe the pandemic is going to have an enduring impact on everyone, not just new graduates. If we look at the way we have been teaching for the last few months and how we, as educators, will be preparing for the forthcoming future, we can already see a significant change: from face-to-face to online and hybrid methods, and there is still more to come. This will have an impact on our students' education and, thus, on the way we prepare them to enter the workforce. At the same time, companies are trying to adapt to this new reality by changing who had conducted work for the last few years. It's evident that both of these factors, including students' education and a new reality within the industry, have been forced upon us by the coronavirus pandemic. They are going to have an enduring impact on graduates. When we say we cannot wait to get back to normal, we cannot wait to identify what the new normal will be like.