What is an engineer?

In simplest terms, he or she is a problem solver, someone with vision and drive who wants to make our world a better to live and work in. Engineers invent new technologies that revolutionize the way we handle information. They design and develop the tools we work with, the toys we play with, the furniture we use, and our means of communication. They improve our buildings, roads, and vehicles. They clean our water, process our foods, make our fuels burn more efficiently, and recycle our waste. Engineers design bridges and medical equipment, develop processes for cleaning up toxic spills, and design systems for mass transit.

More than 1.2 million engineers work in the United States today, making engineering the nation’s second largest profession. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the demand for qualified engineers will remain strong well into the next millennium. An engineering degree is also an excellent background for other careers. Because engineering courses enhance creativity, problem solving skills, and understanding of technology, they provide a strong foundation for further studies in medicine, law, business, dentistry, and almost any other field.