How to Answer: Why IT After Electrical Engineering?
Jumping from electrical engineering to IT might seem like a stretch—after years of dealing with circuits, power systems, and wiring, why switch to something new?
It’s a question that pops up often: why leave a strong field like electrical engineering for IT, and how do you explain it in an interview without sounding unsure?
In this blog, you’ll get the answer “Why IT after electrical engineering?” that show off your skills and make your move sound smart and confident.
Best Ways to Answer: Why IT After Electrical Engineering?
Below are the best ways to answer: ‘Why IT After Electrical Engineering?’ in an interview:
1. How Electrical Engineering and IT Line Up
Electrical engineering and IT aren’t so different—think power grids, automation, or smart devices.
Your electrical skills help you understand circuits and systems, and IT lets you control them with tech.
Template Version:
“I’m [Your Name], an electrical engineer who enjoyed [what you liked about electrical engineering].
I moved to IT because I saw how [specific IT skill, e.g., coding/automation] could improve [specific electrical thing, e.g., systems/power].
My electrical experience helps me understand [circuits/tech], and IT lets me [what you want to do with IT].”
Logic Behind This?
This template connects your electrical past to IT and shows you’re adding to your skills, not starting over.
Mistakes to Avoid?
- Don’t say IT has no tie to electrical—it makes your switch feel off.
- Don’t just talk electrical—add why IT excites you.
- Don’t go on too long—keep it short so they stay with you.
2. Why IT Felt Like the Right Move for My Career
IT is growing fast with lots of jobs, and moving from electrical engineering lets you use your technical brain in a field that’s always hiring, like software or cybersecurity.
Template Version:
“I’m [Your Name], an electrical engineer who worked on [what you did in electrical engineering].
I picked IT because it’s [why it’s growing, e.g., lots of jobs/fast-paced], and I can use my skills to learn [specific IT skill, e.g., coding/security].”
Logic Behind This?
This template keeps it practical and shows you’re looking forward.
Mistakes to Avoid?
- Don’t just say IT pays more—it sounds like that’s all you want.
- Don’t skip your electrical part—link it to IT.
- Don’t use fancy words—keep it clear so they get it fast.
3. Getting Excited About Tech That’s Changing Electrical Systems
IT drives great things like smart grids, IoT, or renewable energy tools—things electrical engineers already know a bit about.
Template Version:
“I’m [Your Name], an electrical engineer who enjoyed [what you liked about electrical engineering].
I chose IT because I’m excited about [specific tech, e.g., smart grids/IoT], which connects to my [specific electrical skill, e.g., circuits/systems].
It’s great to work on [what excites you, e.g., future tech/energy].”
Logic Behind This?
This template lets your excitement shine and ties your switch to real passion and skills.
Mistakes to Avoid?
- Don’t pick tech you don’t care about—it’ll sound fake.
- Don’t leave out electrical—show how it fits the tech.
- Don’t overdo it—keep it real so they trust you mean it.
Final Words
Switching from electrical engineering to IT might feel like a challenge, but it’s a great step if you use what you know.
Try these answers to explain your move, and you’ll sound ready and sharp in any interview!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the main reasons electrical engineers move to IT?
The main reasons electrical engineers move to IT are more job opportunities, growing tech demand, and the chance to work on systems like smart grids or automation.
2. How can an electrical engineer justify switching to IT in an interview?
An electrical engineer can justify switching to IT in an interview by showing how their electrical skills fit IT roles and sharing their interest in tech’s future.
3. What skills from electrical engineering are useful in IT?
Skills from electrical engineering that are useful in IT include working with circuits, understanding systems, and analyzing power, which help in coding and tech design.
4. What are the best IT fields for electrical engineers?
The best IT fields for electrical engineers are IoT, software development, and cybersecurity, where their electrical background gives them a boost.
5. Is coding necessary for electrical engineers to enter IT?
No, coding isn’t always necessary for electrical engineers to enter IT, but it’s a big help for most jobs and makes the switch smoother
6. What certifications can help an electrical engineer enter IT?
Certifications that can help an electrical engineer enter IT include Python, CompTIA, or cloud courses like AWS to show tech skills.
7. Can an electrical engineer get into IT without experience?
An electrical engineer can get into IT without experience by learning basic IT skills or getting certifications to prove they’re ready for the field.
Thirumoorthy serves as a teacher and coach. He obtained a 99 percentile on the CAT. He cleared numerous IT jobs and public sector job interviews, but he still decided to pursue a career in education. He desires to elevate the underprivileged sections of society through education
Thirumoorthy serves as a teacher and coach. He obtained a 99 percentile on the CAT. He cleared numerous IT jobs and public sector job interviews, but he still decided to pursue a career in education. He desires to elevate the underprivileged sections of society through education
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