Tesla began his professional career at the Continental Edison Company in Paris, where he worked on improving electrical equipment and installing indoor lighting systems. His talent for problem-solving and his innovative ideas quickly gained recognition.

Tesla was assigned to repair a damaged power plant in Strasbourg, France. He utilized this opportunity to build his first induction motor prototype, showcasing his burgeoning interest in alternating current (AC) systems.

Tesla emigrated to the United States, arriving in New York City with little more than a letter of introduction to Thomas Edison. He initially worked for Edison, designing and improving direct current (DC) generators, but their conflicting views on AC versus DC led to a short-lived partnership and Tesla's resignation.

Tesla and some investors started the Tesla Electric Light & Manufacturing Company. However, the investors were only interested in DC power distribution, leading to Tesla leaving the company.

Tesla secured funding and established his own laboratory. He dedicated himself to perfecting the AC induction motor and polyphase system. This period marked a significant breakthrough in electrical engineering, leading to the development of a more efficient and versatile power distribution system.

George Westinghouse recognized the potential of Tesla's AC system and purchased his patents for a substantial sum. This partnership led to the widespread adoption of AC power and revolutionized the electrical industry.

Tesla focused on experimenting with high-frequency currents and developed the Tesla coil, a resonant transformer circuit capable of producing high-voltage, high-frequency alternating current electricity. This invention had numerous applications, including wireless lighting and medical devices.

Tesla and Westinghouse demonstrated the superiority of the AC system by lighting the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This event was a major turning point in the 'War of the Currents,' solidifying AC as the dominant power transmission standard.

A devastating fire destroyed Tesla's laboratory at 35 South Fifth Avenue in New York City, setting back his research and destroying many of his notes and prototypes.

Tesla established an experimental station in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he conducted extensive research on high-voltage, high-frequency electricity and wireless power transmission. He made significant observations about atmospheric electricity and the possibility of transmitting power across long distances.

Tesla embarked on the Wardenclyffe Tower project on Long Island, New York, aiming to build a global wireless communication and power transmission system. However, the project faced financial difficulties and was ultimately abandoned due to lack of funding and skepticism from investors.

Tesla was awarded the Edison Medal by the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE), despite his earlier conflicts with Thomas Edison. This recognition acknowledged Tesla's significant contributions to the field of electrical engineering.