Why Are Most Engineers Opposed to Technologists’ Registration With PEC?

Breakthroughs and innovations in science, engineering, and technology are frequently celebrated and publicized under the caption “Science and Technology” while the crucial input of “Engineering” is always overlooked.
The work of engineers involves transforming laws of nature and principles as interpreted by scientists, into tangible and practical solutions. The design and manufacture of most products whether they be high-rise buildings, dams, bridges, powerhouses, ships, aircrafts, rockets, complex machines, giant computers, etc., require engineering which is a distinct and indispensable discipline. The prevailing disparity in recognition naturally leads to a sense of neglect among the engineers.
The role of technologists is also vital as would be clear from the following brief outline of the main functions of the three independent but essential disciplines to attain continued modernization and the creation of novel products:
SCIENTISTS
Interpretation and Formulation of Laws of Nature
Conducting Research
Developing Theories and Hypotheses
Developing Equations and Scientific Formulas
Updating Scientific Knowledge
ENGINEERS
Applying Scientific Principles to Develop Products for the Benefit of Humanity
2 Designing and Developing Details of Products including Specifications, Drawings, and Technical Reports for Construction and Manufacturing
Overseeing the Construction/ Manufacture and Testing of Products for Performance
Trouble-Shooting in Existing Systems
TECHNOLOGISTS
Mastering Methods and Procedures in Manufacturing to Improve Efficiency and Productivity
Generating New Improved Technologies to Ensure Optimal Performance of Products
Scrutinizing Materials used in a Product and Suggesting any Changes in their Proportions and the need for any Additives for Improved Workability
Bridging any Gaps between Scientific and engineering Concepts and their Practical Implementation.
Engineers are rightfully concerned that frequently they are being squeezed between the scientists on the upstream side and technologists from the downstream such that the established disciplinary lines are gradually fading. Even though the scientific or technological communities cannot perform the work of engineers because they are not educated/ trained to do so, there is a natural feeling of uneasiness which is the main cause of so-called conflict with the technologists. The scientific council, the engineering council, and the technologists council must remain separate bodies to regulate their respective professions.
Leaving technologists registration with the NTC (National Technologists Council) rather than the PEC would thus be the right thing to do. Any attempt by the technologists to encroach upon the jurisdiction of engineering would not only be dangerous for the society but also be looked upon with suspicion and distrust by the engineers giving rise to further deepening of the discord between the two.
Educational institutions can play a pivotal role of emphasizing the importance of each of the three disciplines which are all vital for humanity. The three professions ought to recognize each others unique capabilities to be able to work together seamlessly. –
The writer is former Managing Director, Member Water (WAPDA) & Federal Secretary, Water Resources Div. GoP. Currently a Technical Advisor with Associated Consulting Engineers ACE Limited (ACE).