Re: What does it take to be an engineer?

Hi Jordan

I am going to apologize up-front because I don't think I can answer your questions without being wordy.

My name is Greg Culler and I am a Mechanical Engineer. As with any profession, there are different levels and disciplines associated with Engineering. At the very least you need a strong science and math background and a 4 year Engineering degree or equivalent.

In order to be licensed to practice engineering on your own, you also need to pass two tests, The Engineer in training or EIT exam and the Professional Engineer's or PE exam. The EIT is usually taken just after graduation and the PE exam a year or more later.

There are 4 major Engineering Disciples, Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, and Electrical. The descriptions below come from the US Department of Labor website: http://stats.bls.gov/oco/ocos033.htm

Mechanical Engineers typically research, develop, design, manufacture, and test tools, engines, machines, and other mechanical devices. They work on power-producing machines such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines. They also develop power-using machines such as refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment, machine tools, material handling systems, elevators and escalators, industrial production equipment, and robots used in manufacturing. Mechanical engineers also design tools that other engineers need for their work. The field of nanotechnology, which involves the creation of high-performance materials and components by integrating atoms and molecules, is introducing entirely new principles to the design process.

Chemical engineers build a bridge between science and manufacturing, applying the principles of chemistry and engineering to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals. They design equipment and develop processes for large-scale chemical manufacturing, plan and test methods of manufacturing products and treating byproducts, and supervise production.

Civil engineers design and supervise the construction of roads, buildings, airports, tunnels, dams, bridges, and water supply and sewage systems. Civil engineering, considered one of the oldest engineering disciplines, encompasses many specialties. The major specialties within civil engineering are structural, water resources, environmental, construction, transportation, and geotechnical engineering.

Electrical and electronics engineers are responsible for a wide range of technologies. From the global positioning system that can continuously provide the location of a vehicle to giant electric power generators, Electrical and electronics engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacture of electrical and electronic equipment.

During the course of my career, I have performed several engineering functions; process design, industrial ventilation design, machine design, process engineering, and most recently, new product development. One of my most memorable projects was developing a new spacecraft thermal control material.

I am a little confused by your question regarding which shape will hold the most pressure. I assume you are referring to the Lego structures. If so, a Roman arch would be a good bet. If you are not refering to Lego's then I would have to say a sphere.

Cal Tech, the University of Delaware, M.I.T., Va. Tech are all good engineering schools.

I would have to say that as a people, the Romans had the best building style. THey were the first civilization to build functional public works like water and sewer systems and apartment buildings.

As far as the individual with the best building style I would go with Imhotep. Imhotep is widely regarded as the first true engineer, he figured out how to build the Pyramids.

I hope you find this useful and good luck with your project.

Greg