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From the time prehistoric cavemen invented the wheel to the days American Indians first used a travois to haul their possessions and scientists created the spaceship, engineers have played a major role in our destiny. In ancient times, engineers built roads and structures by trial and error, learning from their own mistakes. Today, college training prepares an engineer to work in a certain branch or field of engineering. What Do Engineers Do? Engineers apply the theories and principles of science and mathematics to the economical solution of practical technical problems. Often their work is the link between a scientific discovery and its application. In addition to design and development, many engineers work in testing, production or maintenance. They supervise production in factories, determine the causes of breakdowns, and test manufactured products to maintain quality. They also estimate the time and cost to complete projects. Some work in management or sales where an engineering background enables them to discuss technical aspects of a product and assist in planning its installation or use. Sources: "Professional Specialty Occupations." Occupational Outlook Handbook. 1994. "Engineering." The World Book Encyclopedia. 1995. "1996-97 Recommended Salary
Ranges for Professional Engineers." National Society of Professional Engineers.
America Online. 23 Sept. 1997. Last Updated: 02/16/03 |
