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Technician Versus Engineer The title of this page may be a little misleading. Generally, technicians and engineers are not in competition unless it is on the ball field. They often work side-by-side on projects and their job functions commonly overlap. The difference is probably most pronounced right after graduating from school. Engineers tend to go to work applying the science and mathematics knowledge to solve problems and design processes and products. Technicians tend to start their careers performing tests, collecting data, and assisting engineers. As the technician becomes more knowledgeable about the work he or she is doing, they may take on new responsibilities that include things like designing tests, and they are often given an engineering title by their company. In the field of nondestructive evaluation (NDE), engineers with NDT backgrounds work on developing new inspection equipment and procedures. Technicians usually start their careers in NDT performing tests that follow an established procedure. As they progress in their work experience and knowledge, many NDT technicians find themselves also developing inspection procedures. Both NDT technicians and engineers with NDT backgrounds are in high demand by industry. A Closer Look at Engineers
More than 1.2 million engineers work in the United States today, making engineering the nations second largest profession. According to the US Department of Labor, the demand for qualified engineers will remain strong well into the next millennium. An engineering degree is also an excellent background for other careers. Because engineering courses enhance creativity, problem solving skills, and understanding of technology, they provide a strong foundation for further studies in medicine, law, business, dentistry, and almost any other field. A Closer Look at Technicians
According to the US Department of Labor, there were approximately 519,000 engineering support technicians working in the US in 2000. The demand for engineering support technicians is high and will continue to remain high. In the field on nondestructive testing specifically, some industries are projecting large needs for qualified technicians. |