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Chapter 2 Connecting Technology and Engineering through Mathematics and Science
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Engineering Defi ned
Engineering is the practical application of g
science, mathematics, and technological know-how
to solve problems in the most efficient way possible. fi
Engineering connects science and mathematics
through a systematic and often iterative (repetitive)
approach to designing, creating, evaluating, and
improving technologies.
Engineers conduct research and apply scien-
tifi and technological knowledge to the design and fic
development of products, structures, and systems,
to solve real-world problems. They are problem
solvers. They want to make things work better and
faster. They want to modify the natural world to
create things less expensively and with less envi-
ronmental damage. Engineers are trained to design,
create, evaluate, and improve the technologies
that we use every day. These technologies include
roads, vehicles, bridges, and navigation systems.
Engineering is even part of the foods that we eat
and the clothes that we wear. Engineering is part
of everything we do on a daily basis. Engineering
is a way to impact the world, help humanity, and
advance civilization.
Connections between
Technology, Engineering,
and Other Fields of Study
There is a strong connection between tech-
nology, engineering, science, and mathematics,
Figure 2-4. These fi elds of study are all related by fi
Engineering technicians are trained in the skills and procedures required for
equipment installation, repair, and maintenance in specific engineering fields. They
often work in field service positions, traveling to different locations to solve technical
problems with particular equipment on which they are trained. These individuals
have a practical understanding of engineering concepts and assist engineers and
engineering technologists.
Students interested in engineering technician jobs should explore high school
career academy options, such as engineering technology or manufacturing. College
students attend two-year technical institutions or community colleges to obtain an
associate degree, such as an associate of applied science or associate of science
in engineering and technology. These programs focus on learning the practical
application of specific engineering tools. Individuals pursuing engineering technician
careers should have a multidisciplinary skill set in problem solving, measurement,
electronics, mathematics, and communication.
Engineering technicians are hired in a variety of technology fields ranging from
manufacturing to medical industries. They install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair
equipment and systems. Engineering technicians might also work as lab technicians,
test-engineering technicians, service technicians, engineering assistants, associate
engineers, or field-engineering technicians.
Specific projects that engineering technicians may be involved in include:
■
Assembling and setting up engineering equipment.
■
Assisting engineers and engineering technologists with research and
development projects.
■
Producing technical drawings and technical manuals.
Engineering technicians are consistently in demand due to the growing
importance of technological fields, such as petroleum and natural gas production
and the revitalization of the manufacturing industry. The American Society of Certified
Engineering Technicians is one professional organization that an engineering
technician might join.
Career Connection
Engineering Technician