Take plenty of math, physics, physical science and English courses in high school to prepare you for the college study required to become an instrument engineer.
Obtain a bachelor's degree in engineering, engineering technology or a math-related field to prepare for a career in instrument engineering. Schools such as Colorado Technical University, Oklahoma State University and Pearl River Community College offer programs in this specific field.
Participate in engineering organizations such as the Junior Engineering Technical Society (JETS) while in high school, or the National Society of Professional Engineers while in college.
Consider earning a graduate degree in engineering to pursue higher level opportunities in the instrumental engineering field.
Take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam upon graduation and become an engineering intern and acquire practical engineering experience.
Become licensed as a professional engineer by receiving a degree from an accredited engineering program and working four years in the field, then taking an engineering exam called the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam.
Read texts about the career field of instrument engineering such as the Instrument Engineers' Handbook.