Engineering Technologist

An engineering technologist, is a specialist devoted to the development and implementation of existing technology within a field of engineering. Engineering technology education is more applied than the more theoretical science based engineering degree education. Technologists often work with engineers in a wide variety of projects by applying basic engineering principles and technical skills. It is not unusual for Engineering Technologists to assume senior management positions in industry or to become entrepreneurs. The work of technologists is usually focused on the portion of the technological spectrum closest to product improvement, manufacturing, construction, and engineering operational functions. Engineering technology deals with the same topics as engineering, but is more applied knowledge rather than a purely theoretical knowledge. The mathematics and basic sciences as well as the technical courses in technology programs are taught with more applications and less theory than the related engineering courses. Engineering courses also typically require a higher level of knowledge of mathematics, natural and engineering sciences and prepare a student to continue studies and perform research at the graduate levels. Engineering technology courses generally have labs associated with the courses that require applied or "hands-on" applications of the topics being studied.

Internationally, the Sydney Accord is an agreement signed in 2001 acknowledging the academic equivalence of accredited engineering technology programs in the signatory nations. In some countries, only individuals who have graduated from an accredited curriculum in engineering technology and have a significant amount of work experience in their field may become registered technologists. A technologist's recognition may be in the form of a certification or a professional registration.