Engineering

Engineering is the application of science and mathematics to the design of products and systems.

Types of engineering

The original split was between military and civil engineering. Contemporary subsets include:

• Aerospace engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Electrical and electronic engineering, which includes:
  • Communications engineering
  • Computer engineering
  • Control engineering
  • Power engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Mining engineering

Professional standards

Many of the products designed by engineers can, if designed badly, have catastrophic consequences. Therefore engineers have to be well trained and are usually qualified to at least degree standard. In some jurisdictions, it is illegal to pass oneself off as an engineer without the required credentials.

Less qualified individuals often install, operate and maintain the products and systems designed by engineers: they are typically known as technicians, mechanics, riggers or fitters.

External links

The Institution of Engineering and Technology