Engineering and Engineering Technology Defined
Engineering
is the profession in which a knowledge of the mathematical and
natural sciences gained by study, experience, and practice is applied with
judgment to develop ways to utilize, economically, the materials and forces of
nature of the benefit of mankind. (ABET 1996)
Engineering technology
is that part of the technological field that requires
the application of scientific and engineering knowledge and methods combined
with technical skills in support of engineering activities; it lies in the
occupational spectrum between the craftsman and the engineer at the end of the
spectrum closest to the engineer. (ABET 1996)
Engineer
- With a background in mathematics, physical sciences, and
engineering sciences, the engineer interrelates engineering principles with
economic, social, legal, aesthetic, environmental and ethical issues. The
engineer is a designer, conceptualizer, developer, all to meet societal needs.
The engineer plans, predicts systematizes and evaluates. The engineer will
normally have received a BS degree from an EAC of ABET accredited engineering
program. Education in engineering analysis and synthesis prepares the engineer
to enter the profession with potential for further development in research,
design, development, management, establishment of systems, and translation of
concepts into realities. An engineering education is a major step to
registration as a Professional Engineer. (National Academy Press, 1986)
Engineering Technologist
- The engineering technologist must be
applications-oriented, building upon a background of applied mathematics,
science, and engineering technology. The technologist must be able to produce
practical, workable results; install and operate technical systems; devise
hardware from proven concepts; develop and produce products; service machines
and systems; manage construction and production processes; and provide sales
support for technical products and systems. The engineering technologist will
normally have received a BSET degree from a TAC of ABET accredited engineering
technology program. The technologist must be prepared to make independent
judgments that will expedite work without jeopardizing effectiveness, safety, or
cost. An engineering technology education may be a major step to restoration as
a Professional engineer, but not all states allow engineering technologists to
become registered. (National Academy Press, 1986)
Engineering Technician
- The engineering technician is a doer, a builder of
components, a sampler and collector of data. The technician utilizes proven
techniques and methods with a minimum of direction from an engineer or an
engineering technologist. The engineering technician will normally have
received an AS or AAS degree - possibly from a TAC of ABET accredited
engineering technology program. The technician is not expected to make
judgments which deviate significantly from standard procedures. The technician
conducts routine tests, presents data in a reasonable format, and carries out
operational tasks following well-defined procedures, methods, and standards.
(National Academy Press, 1986)