Engineering Cadre: Engineer, Technologist, Technician, Artisan/Craftsman

  • #1
DeBangis21
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The Engineering Cadre:
1. Engineer
2. Technologist
3. Technician
4. Artisan/craftsman.

Warm greetings, PF intellectuals. I would like to hear your insights about the ranking.

The last have no qualification.

What is/are the difference(s) between an engineer and a technologist?

And who really builds/manufactures engines and machines? Engr or skilled trader?
 
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  • #2
DeBangis21 said:
What is/are the difference(s) between an engineer and a technologist?
From my (US) perspective, an engineer has a 4+ year degree, and a technician/technologist has a 2-year degree (community/junior college). I don't know much about a distinction between technician and technologist.

Electronics technicians typically help EEs in their lab work, assist with building prototypes, help with testing the prototypes, and help with rework tasks. I have worked with experienced technicians who were basically doing engineering-level work.

DeBangis21 said:
And who really builds/manufactures engines and machines? Engr or skilled trader?
MEs would design the production process and help with building the infrastructure to manufacture the machines, but technicians and skilled tradespeople would do the bulk of the work on the production line (along with the robots on the line).
 
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  • #3
DeBangis21 said:
Warm greetings, PF intellectuals. I would like to hear your insights about the ranking.
Under what criteria would you like them ranked?
 
  • #4
DeBangis21 said:
who really builds/manufactures engines and machines? Engr or skilled trader?
In the electronics world, engineers DON'T BUILD ANYTHING, except their own prototypes and such. Engineers on the manufacturing floor need adult supervision; we aren't known for respecting, knowing and following all of the rules, even if we were the ones that wrote them. Just getting us to wear safety glasses can be a multi-year challenge. YMMV.
 
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I think our two posts have pretty much answered the OPs question and so now is a good time to close the thread.

In closing, I feel compelled to say that these kinds of questions will not lead one to a successful career in any of these fields. My suggestion is to study math, science, engineering and technology and see what career interests you most and then pursue it. The math and science you learn early on can guide you to your interests.

I had a young protege who was a member of our local Computer Explorer Post in the 1980s. He was enamored with programming and had some talent for it. After highschool, he decided to form a small consulting company that would take on small business programming contracts. It was in the hayday of personal computing before IBM got into the picture. He rented office space in a dilapidated building and bought all kinds of office equipment for his business and even got a contract with a supplier of aircraft parts. He showed me the setup he had and wanted me to leave GE to join his venture but it was clear he had no idea how to program this kind of application and indeed a short time later, the business folded.

My take was that he lost sight of the goal and thought that by having all the cool equipment he could make a go of it but had no plan or vision on how to proceed step by step.

If you want to become successful in any of these disciplines you must set a goal and develop a roadmap to get there. Many people in these careers can help you develop a roadmap to get to your goal. Don't be like my protege and lose sight of the goal because you have no plan beyond today.

Jedi
 
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FAQ: Engineering Cadre: Engineer, Technologist, Technician, Artisan/Craftsman

What is the difference between an engineer, technologist, technician, and artisan/craftsman?

An engineer typically has a bachelor's degree or higher in engineering and is involved in designing, analyzing, and overseeing large-scale projects. A technologist often has a bachelor's degree in engineering technology and focuses more on implementing and operating technology. A technician usually has an associate degree or technical diploma and is skilled in the practical aspects of engineering, such as installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. An artisan or craftsman is highly skilled in a specific trade or craft, often learned through apprenticeships or vocational training, and works with hands-on techniques to create or repair items.

What educational paths are required for each role in the engineering cadre?

Engineers generally require a bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited university, and often pursue further certifications or licenses. Technologists typically have a bachelor's degree in engineering technology. Technicians usually hold an associate degree or technical diploma from a community college or technical school. Artisans or craftsmen often complete vocational training programs, apprenticeships, or earn certifications specific to their trade.

What types of tasks and responsibilities does each role typically perform?

Engineers are responsible for designing systems, conducting research, and managing projects. Technologists apply engineering principles to practical problems, often working on the implementation and optimization of systems. Technicians handle the installation, maintenance, and repair of equipment and systems. Artisans or craftsmen create, build, and repair items using specialized skills and tools, often working in fields like carpentry, metalworking, or electrical work.

How do the career prospects and salary ranges differ among these roles?

Engineers generally have the highest salary ranges and career prospects due to the advanced education and responsibilities involved. Technologists also have good career prospects and competitive salaries, though typically slightly lower than engineers. Technicians have moderate salaries and stable job prospects, with opportunities for advancement through experience and additional certifications. Artisans or craftsmen can have variable income depending on their trade, skill level, and market demand, with some highly skilled craftsmen earning competitive wages.

What certifications or licenses might be required or beneficial for each role?

Engineers often need to obtain a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which requires passing exams and gaining work experience. Technologists may benefit from certifications like those offered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). Technicians can pursue various certifications relevant to their field, such as CompTIA A+ for IT technicians or HVAC certification for heating and cooling specialists. Artisans or craftsmen might seek certifications from trade organizations or unions specific to their craft, such as welding certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS).

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