Hey guys,
I’m 24 years old and currently working as a GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineer with around 2 years of experience in navigation and robotics.
Recently, I got an opportunity to transition into semiconductor design through an 18-month program. The program includes hands-on training and working on real-world projects involving digital and analog design and verification.
The downside is that the salary is significantly lower than what I’m currently making as a GNC engineer. However, I see this as an opportunity to enter the semiconductor industry, gain practical experience, and potentially qualify for much higher-paying positions in the future.
I’m seriously considering taking the risk for a few reasons:
I’m still young**.** At 24, I feel this is the right time to take calculated risks and invest in my long-term career.
I believe the industry will look very different in 3–5** years.** With AI advancing so rapidly, I think hardware and semiconductor design will become increasingly important.
I’m not starting from scratch**.** My background in GNC, navigation, embedded systems, and robotics will still be valuable. Instead of abandoning my existing skills, I’ll be adding another layer to my technical expertise.
I want to become a more versatile engineer**.** My long-term goal is to understand systems from the hardware level all the way up to algorithms and real-time implementation.
My thinking is that combining semiconductor design with my existing experience in navigation and embedded systems could open doors to opportunities that wouldn’t be available to me otherwise.
However, I’m aware of the risks. The program lasts 18 months, and there’s no guarantee of a permanent position afterward. I’d also be taking a significant pay cut during that period.
What would you do in my position?
Would you take the risk and invest 18 months in semiconductor design, or would you stay in GNC, build on your existing experience, and potentially earn more in the short term?
I’d especially appreciate advice from people working in semiconductor design, ASIC/FPGA development, embedded systems, or GNC engineering.