Definition of Engineering

What is Engineering? The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) defines engineering as: “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 for the benefit of mankind.” Source: 1985 Annual Report. Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, New York (1986).

Engineer & Scientist Both the engineer and the scientist are thoroughly educated in the mathematical and natural sciences, but the scientist primarily uses this knowledge to acquire new knowledge, whereas the engineer applies the knowledge to design and develop usable devices, structures and processes. In the other words, the scientist seeks to know, the engineer aims to do.

Engineer & Scientist Scientist: uses his creative talent in developing new, fundamental concepts of the universe. Engineer: uses his creative talent to apply those fundamental concepts in new ways.

Engineering Team Engineer  Applies knowledge of math and physical sciences to the efficient design and construction of usable devices, structures and processes. Technologist  Focuses on direct application of established engineering principles and processes. Math, physical sciences, and underlying engineering theory receive limited coverage. More interested in hardware and processes. Technician  Completes a 2 year degree in a narrow technical area such as electronics, drafting, or machining. Craftsman  Training may be a combination of schooling and work experience. Examples include, welders, machinists, electricians, carpenters, painters, and steel workers.

Engineering Team Source: Wright, P.H. Introduction to Engineering, John Wiley & Sons (2002).