Engineering vs Engineering Tech
Engineering vs Engineering Tech career and course work.
Understanding the distinction between engineering and engineering technology is important when choosing a career path in the engineering field. While there is some overlap between the two fields, the academic preparation and career options between the two vary a great deal. In short, engineering focuses on innovation and design, while engineering technology is the hands-on application and implementation of engineering techniques.
Engineering majors can expect an educational emphasis on advanced mathematics and theory, including numerous classes in calculus and theoretical sciences. The engineering curriculum may consist of algebra, calculus, chemistry, differential equations, mechanics, physics and statics, Additionally you will add math and science electives to your schedule. With a Bachelors of Engineering degree you will also be required to take elective courses in the humanities, economics, and/or liberal arts.
Engineers are innovators who develop solutions for complex problems involving products that are a part of a system or structure. They may pursue careers in design, research, innovation, or management. New graduates typically work for experienced engineers or managers, assisting in the design and testing of new products. Successfull engineers enjoy and excel at mathematics and detailed work. In the engineering career you will work as a team, may direct the work of others and appreciate other sciences. Creating, designing and communication skills are necessary in this field.
The field of engineering is constantly evolving as new technology is invented. Currently, there are several main engineering areas: chemical, civil, electrical, mechanical, software, and systems. Each engineering area may consist of several hundred specific types of engineers. Examples of this are: aerospace, agricultural, audio, automotive, biomedical, building, chemical, civil, communications, computer, construction, electrical, electromechanical, electronic, environmental, food, forestry, gas, geological, geomatics, industrial, manufacturing, marine, mathematical, mechanical, metallurgical, mineral, mining, nuclear, petroleum, physics, plastics, production, software, sports, systems, water resource, and web.
In engineering technology, the academic priority is the hands-on application of skills. College courses include algebra, trigonometry, calculus, physics, introduction to technology, computer applications and programming and numerous applied lab courses. These laboratory courses include design and prototyping, production software, robotics, CNC machining, material testing, and other applied skills. A few elective courses may also be part of an engineering technology program.
Engineering technologists are creators who use their technical and practical knowledge to develop, implement, and improve products, systems, or structures. They often have careers in manufacturing, production, product testing, systems development, quality control, maintenance, and design. They may work in construction management or oversee manufacturing processes. Individuals that excel as engineering technologists enjoy making things work and using knowledge and skills to identify and solve problems. They enjoy executing an idea and will persevere to improve and implement the concept. They embrace new technology and are eager to learn and implement it. A technologist will work well within a team environment and possess strong communication skills..
The field of engineering technology is rapidly changing due to technology that is constantly being invented and improved. The areas of specialization for engineering technologists and technicians are just as diverse as that of engineers. A technologist must be prepared to continually adapt to advancing software and systems. The technologist will find that technology used at the beginning of one’s career will most likely be obsolete by the end of their career
When deciding whether to become an engineer or an engineering technologist, you must think about the type of job you would enjoy. If designing is your interest, become an engineer. If you would rather create and bring to life a concept, than engineering technology would be your choice. Both of these fields are crucial to the success of our ever-changing world.
To learn more check out these resources:
ABET Engineer vs, Engineering Tech.
Wikipedia Engineering Technologist
To learn more about Morrison Tech Engineering Technology program.