Engineering is an incredibly broad field that involves the harnessing of mathematical and scientific concepts to create practical and useful things, ranging from automobiles to wind turbines. This field is huge, encompassing people in a wide range of industries, and some people call it “the invisible science,” because engineers are often unsung and unheralded, despite the fact that the work they do is very important. Many colleges and universities offer courses in this discipline for people who are interested in pursuing it as a career.
As a very ancient field of human endeavor, engineering was used by early humans, who used their knowledge of the natural world to figure out things like irrigation schemes and how to build boats that didn't sink. Over time, as humans learned more about science and mathematics, engineering got more complex, and this field paved the way for modern society. Anyone reading this article is benefiting from a product of this field, be it a computer or other similar electronic device.
There are a number of subfields of this discipline, including mechanical, computer, electrical, military, civil, environmental, aerospace, and chemical engineering. All of these fields require different types of training; aerospace engineers, for example, learn a great deal about physics and space in the course of their work, while environmental engineers consider issues like pollution control and the impact of humans on their environment.
Most engineers pride themselves on being problem solvers. Their field of work involves the analysis of a problem, such as the need for a safe and stable water supply for a city, and the creation of a solution, such as an aqueduct. In the course of their work, engineers often interact with people in a number of other disciplines, and this field of work places a high value on collaboration, fact checking, and quick thinking.
Most countries regulate the field, because engineers participate in projects that could be very dangerous if conducted without proper training. Engineers, for example, analyze the plans for structures to ensure that they are sound and stable; an unqualified civil engineer might sign off on plans for a bridge or building that could fail with catastrophic results. Most people who pursue careers in this field go through both graduate and undergraduate training, and they may be required to complete examinations as well.