Engineering is a "tall order". Let me explain:

Engineering is the profession where problems are solved for the benefit of humankind in order to meet a well defined need. Engineers are educated in math, science, humanities, and in their specialization area (discipline) so that effective utilization of forces, energy, and materials provided by nature can be realized. Since the World's resources are finite and its ecosystems delicate, engineers must not be wasteful of limited resources or allow excessive pollution in their endeavors.
Since competition for products and services is global, engineers should strive to minimize waste in defective products and services to help maintain high quality with the end result of earning consumer and client confidence.
Knowledgible consumers and potential clients will select from a global marketplace when deciding from whom to buy products and services to meet their needs. Viable companies with satisfied customers and clients will most likely survive and have a future. A viable company is most likely to be honest and ethical as well. There have been recent news media reports of dishonest and unethical behavior by top management with the disasterous results to all involved. In particular, gross unfairness has been dealt to the hardworking employees who have lost their retirement savings.
Finally, in practicing engineering, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, in writing and in speaking, is important to meet the needs of customers and clients, and those in the general public with a sense of curiosity as to what engineers do for a living. Your spouse, relatives, and interested neighbors are included in this group.

Russell Eng
Written 9-22-02;
Revised 10-3-02