Page 2 - Principles of Applied Engineering

Chapter 1

engineering as a

DisCipline

1.1 Define engineering

engineering The field of engineering operates under a slew of misconceptions held by the public. A
modern day engineer does not operate trains; the scope of work within engineering has
broadened since the early days of the hostler. Professionals in the field will likely not be
found underneath our cars changing oil. Instead, engineers can be found behind the
scenes of technological innovations – from the devices in our pockets capable of connect-
ing us with others around the world to the composition of the rubber soles in shoes.
We hear the word engineering in advertisements, tossed around as a potential
career for those gifted in math and science (though one can have average math skills
and still succeed), but what do we mean by engineering? The organization responsible
accrediting for accrediting (or evaluating) programs in the field, the Accreditation Board for
ABET Engineering and Technology (ABET), provides a definition to encompass the primary
aspects of what it means to be an engineer.

Engineering is defined to be a profession that draws upon knowledge of mathe-
matics and science to create ways to economically use available materials and the
forces of nature to benefit the human race through the process of design.

Scattered through the definition are various key words and phrases which charac-
terize the profession: knowledge of mathematics and science, economic use of materi-
als and natural forces, benefiting the human race, and finally – design. Now, what do all
of these phrases mean and how do they capture what engineering is all about?

Knowledge of Mathematics and Science: Engineers are heavily trained to ensure they
are proficient in mathematics and science. The typical coursework an undergraduate
engineering student will face includes study in the realms of calculus and physics. The
mathematical concepts and methods we learn help us solve physical problems. Rising
to the call of being an engineer goes beyond mere textbook exercises; instead, it
requires us to solve problems on a grander scale. As eloquently stated by Galileo
Galilei, “The laws of Nature are written in the language of mathematics.” Considering
that our ability to harness the natural forces around us is dependent on being able to
use mathematics in a practical sense, we are trained to speak the language fluently.
Economic Use of Materials and Natural Forces: Although we can theoretically sketch
out plans for an extravagantly costly and wasteful project, engineers must weigh their
criteria options and work within specifications, often called criteria. Beyond the requirements
constraints set by a customer, societal or political constraints could affect the creation and imple-
mentation of the project. Practically, the common limitation that engineers face is the
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