Engineering Fundamentals and Problem Solving, 6e Chapter 1 The Engineering Profession

Chapter Objectives Understand the role of engineering in the world Understand how to prepare for a meaningful engineering career Understand the role of an engineer in the engineering workplace Describe the responsibilities and roles of the most common engineering disciplines

An Engineering Career Questions to consider: What is engineering? What are the career opportunities for engineers? What are the engineering disciplines? Where does the engineer fit into the technical spectrum? How are engineers educated?

An Engineering Career cont’d More questions to consider: What is professionalism and engineering ethics? What have engineers done in the past? What are engineers doing now? What will engineers do in the future? What workplace competencies are needed to be a successful engineer?

The Technology Team Scientist Engineer Technologist and Technician Skilled Tradespersons/Craftspersons

Scientist Scientists conduct research in seeking new knowledge. The systematic research steps (or scientific method) are: Formulate a hypothesis to explain phenomenon. Conduct experiments to test the hypothesis. Analyze test results and state conclusions. Generalize the hypothesis into a law or theory. Publish the new knowledge.

Engineer Engineers: Apply knowledge of math and science Conduct design and analysis Solve problems Develop devices processes structures systems

Engineering Design Process The design process includes: Define the problem. Acquire pertinent data. Identify constraints. Develop alternative solutions. Select a solution based on analysis of alternatives. Communicate the results.

Technologist and Technician Technologists Apply their education and experience Modify designs as needed Technicians Perform computations and experiments Prepare design drawings Perform tasks as requested by engineers and scientists

Skilled Tradespersons/Craftspersons Do not need in-depth knowledge of science and engineering Often trained on the job Often serve apprenticeships Learn to build and operate specialized equipment

Engineering Profession Engineers must demonstrate: Initiative Professionalism Engineering knowledge Teamwork Innovation Communication Cultural adaptability Safety awareness Customer focus General knowledge Continuous learning Planning Analysis and judgment Quality orientation Integrity

The Engineering Functions Research Development Design Production and Testing Construction Operations Sales Management Consulting Teaching

Engineering Disciplines Aerospace Agricultural Biosystems/Biological Chemical Civil Computer Electrical Environmental Industrial Mechanical Metallurgical Petroleum Others?

Engineering Degrees by Discipline 68 206 engineering degrees were awarded in 2008. (data from ASEE Profiles in Engineering and Technology Colleges, 2008 Edition.)

Engineering Challenges Energy Infrastructure Clean Water Food supply Global design Others?