I really like tinkering with thinks like vacuums. I applied as an electrical engineering major (and i think this would be a good way to get hired by companies like dyson and dirt devil). my question is i hear that electrical engineers do mostly desk work. Would I be able to get any “hands on” jobs at vacuum companies. Also, what specialization in electrical engineering should I get if I want to work for such companies.
Are you sure you want to study that? You know, it really sucks. 
@billcsho lol. but do you have any knowledge on how to get into the field?
My friend is an engineer at Bissel. He was a civil engineer but worked in auto industry for almost 20 years before moving to Bissel. I think mechanical engineering may be more relevant and he does a lot of computer modeling. Of course, they would need all kind of engineers in their company too.
You might try looking at the career sections of the websites for some of these companies. I took a quick look at Dyson, and it seems they mostly hire mecnanical engineers for their research facility in the UK.
The electrical part of a vacuum cleaner is a motor. Nothing too complex about that. The real engineering challenge is to design the right mechanical parts to create the greatest vacuum, and also the space and other mechanical design considerations.
@MomOf2TeenGirls dont you dare talk to me about dyson lol jk. but in all honesty, they dont even produce real vacuums. Working for them would be a disgrace to myself. Only true vacuum companies are Kirby, Oreck, Sanitaire, and the likes. But thanks for the info. Im sure other vacuum companies need mechancial engineers as well. Thanks all!
" Only true vacuum companies are Kirby, Oreck, Sanitaire, and the likes."
I have a Kirby. I think it was designed by a military tank engineer.
@simba9 good. youre a smart person. thats how vacuums are supposed to be.
I would imagine a mechanical/aerospace/electrical/computer engineering degree with a personal interest in vacuum cleaners should suffice.
If you want first-hand knowledge of what’s required, try looking at job postings at companies you want to work for to get an idea of what types of skills they are looking for. I found one at Bissell for a Test Engineer that specifies the following:
*Position Requirements
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION: (i.e. degree, years of experience, etc.)
Degree minimum: BSEE, BSME, BSEET, BSMET, or equivalent industry experience
Specific concentration: Mechanical or Electrical / Electronics Engineering
Experience level: 2-4 years with desired 2 years in Consumer Products Industry
This position will interact with various project team members to define, document, analyze, perform, and interpret tests for products, systems, components, or modifications. This position will initiate and lead the design, development, and implementation of technology research projects for the growth of Test Laboratory capabilities supporting Global Product Development processes. The Test Engineer II relies upon broad technical experience, exercises sound judgment with limited oversight, and is proficient within one or more engineering disciplines. Developed analytical abilities and adept technical intuition is a requirement for success.*
@finallyfree - I only chose Dyson because you mentioned them in your initial post! Best of luck with your decision.
@MomOf2TeenGirls good point. My bad
Mechanical Engineering probably. A good thing to ask your profs about when you’re in college.
@scholarme i feel kinda awkward going up to my professors and asking them how i can get into the vacuum industry… its not something people really talk about. also, is the pay in the vacuum industry less that other mechancial engineers industries?