Interesting Stuff
Why is engineering important?
Engineering has never been more important to Australia's prosperity and the well-being of its people. Its benefits are everywhere - in health, the built and natural environments, foods, medicine and aerospace. But these benefits are not always evident to the community.
The word 'engineering' is often lost somewhere between science and technology. Science, engineering, technology and innovation are very closely linked and interrelated; but they don't have the same meaning.
To engineer literally means 'to make things happen'. Engineering know how converts science knowledge into technology; then turns technology into successful innovation. So, engineering is about making real and useful things for the occupants of planet Earth (and maybe other worlds in the not too distant future!).
Here are some examples:
Medicine
Millions of people in the world are alive today, thanks to artificial pacemakers. Medical science explained the secret workings of the heart but it was left to brilliant engineers to develop the tiny, intelligent device that keep hearts beating. The lessons learned from creating the pacemaker stimulate ideas for other successful devices, for new uses - that's called innovation.
Modern Communication
Preserving endangered species requires accurate data about habitats. Engineers designed sophisticated imaging equipment and the satellites to carry it, providing researchers and environmental scientists with a unique view of the earth's habitats. Accurate data enables accurate planning. This engineering 'know how' even helps in the development of other communication products.
Historical influence
Engineers have always found innovative, workable solutions to technological problems through a systematic problem-solving approach. During the Industrial Revolution over 200 years ago, engineers were the people who designed steam engines, invented spinning machines, built roads and brought piped water to towns.
Today Engineers aim to improve the quality of life for all of us. Everything that is made or built results from their expertise, from smart buildings to video phones, from the Internet to digital television. As scientists make new discoveries, engineers are at the forefront of turning that knowledge into something practical and valued. So, in this way, engineers are at the boundaries of our current knowledge.
Here is a list of some of the new horizons for engineering:
• Advanced computer technology
• Artificial intelligence
• Bio-engineering
• Data compression and encoding/security
• Digital broadcasting
• DNA drugs
• Flat screen displays
• Handwriting recognition
• Integrated transport systems
• Minimally invasive surgery
• Molecular engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Personal and mobile communications
• Robotics Software engineering
• Space engineering
• Telemedicine
• Virtual reality
Engineers make a significant contribution to creating wealth in a country. Many successful economies have a high number of engineers and technologists. They play an important role in taking new and emerging technologies and creating new products, processes or services.
