The article outlines a professionally oriented approach to the formation of electrical engineering course content for the training of future engineers of machine-building profile. It is shown that in modern conditions the application of new technologies, new element base, wide application of computers and digital technology in various branches of production, one of the most important problems is the formation of solid electrical training of engineers of non-electrotechnical specialties. Therefore, a mechanical engineer must be well aware of the properties and features of various electrical and electronic devices, in order to use them in the research, design, construction and especially in the operation of the equipment with which his professional activity is associated. A review of the main professional duties of a mechanical engineer shows that among them the maintenance, operation, modernization, repair of industrial equipment, which, as a rule, includes various electrical devices takes an important place. And the functioning of automatic lines and systems of complex mechanization and automation in general is impossible without extensive use of electrical equipment. Having analyzed the requirements for the activity of a mechanical engineer, which are set out in the relevant job descriptions, as well as the conducted classification of electrical equipment of machine-building production, it is possible to identify the main factors that determine the structure of professionally oriented electrical engineering content. As a result of the analysis, a systematic approach aimed at professionally oriented theoretical material of electrical engineering is proposed. The prospects of further professionalization of the discipline, approaching theoretical provisions to the subject area, filling idealized definitions with real physical content are outlined.