Some context, I work in Automotive (American) doing Cloud Infra security testing. Some would call it pen testing, i usually just use the term White Box Security Test. B.S. in CS.
Anyway, I love my job, and I don't believe AI will replace it.
That being said, it doesn't matter what I think, it matters what mgmt thinks. In addition, I've been messing with MCUs and I really have enjoyed that lower level programming, as well as being able to see the physical manifestation of the code I write.
So, I've been trying to formulate a cost effective plan to start learning and doing some projects to gain experience and familiarity with hardware, as well as bring my Cybersecurity background with me and understand not just the wireless security but also the hardware security.
At the moment, I have a couple Boards:
ESP32 C6 DevKit
Nrf52840 DK
RPI Pico 2 W
PocketBeagle 2 (currently being shipped)
I also have an electronics set with BreadBoard, resistors, peripherals, sensors, diodes, etc., with a multimeter and logic analyzer. I belive this should be enough to get me started. If I'm mistaken please let me know.
My goals is to learn as much as I can with these tools about circuits, firmware development, debugging, RTOS, reverse engineering, etc. I'm hoping that documenting these projects well will help me pivot later should I do so.
Also thought about learning about and doing robotics as well, but i figure i should get a good handle on Embedded fundamentals first.
I know getting an M.S. would be more convincing to HR, but I'm trying to save some money, and get comfortable and some good projects in sooner than it would take for me to finish an M.S.
Is this a good path forward to get started? Am I missing something important? Am I way in over my head? Any estimates on how long this could/should take me? Be as honest as possible