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Learn the distinction between science and engineering, the role engineers play in society, and the essential skills needed for a successful engineering career.
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Instructors • Michael Chajes, Civil & Environmental Engineering (Course Coordinator) • Dom Di Toro, Civil & Environmental Engineering • Sue McNeil, Civil & Environmental Engineering • Ajay Prasad, Mechanical Engineering • Dennis Prather, Electrical & Computer Engineering • T W Fraser Russell, Chemical Engineering
Science vs. Engineering • The basic objective of science is to discover the composition and behavior of the physical world (i.e. the laws of nature) • The basic objective of engineering is to design useful things • Scientists want to understand theories • Engineers want to build things
Science vs. Engineering continued • A scientists might be interested in understanding the chemical reaction of combustion, while an engineer might be interested in harnessing the energy of combustion efficiently to do mechanical work. • A mathematician might be interested in finding methods for solving a differential equation, while an engineer might be interested using the solution to the differential equation that describes the bending of a beam to design a bridge. • Engineers use science and math to solve problems and to create “things.” • Engineering is “applied science.”
So What do Engineers Do? • Engineers are societies problem solvers • Engineers strive to improve the quality of life by creating (products-computers, systems-subway, processes-power generation, etc.) • Engineers must deal with constraints (time, money, limited resources-sustainability) • Engineers must deal with risk and uncertainty • Engineers must deal with trade-offs (safety vs. economy)
Needed Skills • Problem solving skills • Strong math and science background • Understanding of the societal impact of decisions (sustainability, globalization) • Ability to collaborate • Ability to communication • Ability to leader • High ethical standards • Business sense • Common sense