2 tips to start hacking hardware as a beginner
Beginners should embrace their novice status, as early hardware experiments often appear unpolished. Simple projects like flashing LEDs or using Arduinos provide accessible entry points. A starter kit costs approximately 50 dollars and includes components like speakers and LED bulbs. These affordable tools enable users to build their first functional hardware projects without advanced expertise.
The reality of the $300k engineer dream
Machine learning engineers in the United States reach a median total compensation above $300,000 after six to eight years of experience. This role pays 68% more than the AI engineer title, which averages $169,000 across all experience levels. Big tech companies have not widely adopted the AI engineer title, blurring the distinction between the two roles. Research scientist positions offer the fastest path to the $300,000 bracket with a $311,000 median starting salary. The US market floor for these roles sits at $100,000, even for new hires.