So why would you want to become an electrical or computer engineer? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 3. Why major in electrical or computer engineering? Electronics is one of the largest manufacturing industries. Its economic and social impact will make it the most important industry in the 21st century. Electrical and computer engineers continue to provide the key building blocks of the information technology revolution, from improved data storage devices and faster computer chips to advanced data compression methods and telecommunications. From cell phones to fiber optic networks, electrical engineers are designing a radically new communications infrastructure for the 21st century. The electrical power industry is moving rapidly towards global competition, which will lead to a total utility investment of $2.6 trillion over the next twenty years. In order to maintain a competitive edge and operate more cost effectively, firms will continue to demand computer professionals who are knowledgeable about hardware and software and can apply this knowledge to meet the needs of business and society.