As an expert in multiple areas of electromechanical engineering, I confidently identify as an Engineering Technologist.
What Is An Engineering Technologist?
An Engineering Technologist is a professional trained in the application, development, and implementation of technology. While engineers tend to focus on theoretical design and conceptual modeling, engineering technologists concentrate on bringing those ideas into the real world—through testing, building, improving, and executing.
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Engineering technologists often work in product design, fabrication, testing, manufacturing, and systems support. Over time, many grow into engineering roles themselves through deep, hands-on experience.
According to the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), engineers are typically trained to "function as designers," while technologists "apply others' designs." But in reality, the boundary between the two is often blurred—especially in high-stakes fields like aerospace and medical device manufacturing, where development and execution go hand in hand.
Nature of Work:
Engineering technologists and engineers share overlapping skill sets, but their roles differ in focus.
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Technologists are more likely to work in:
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Product testing
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Fieldwork
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Fabrication and construction
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Production troubleshooting
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Implementation of new technologies
Engineers tend to focus on:
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Conceptual design
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Simulation and analysis
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Theoretical modeling
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Research and development
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​Still, collaboration between both roles is essential—product success often depends on both the idea and its execution.
REAL-WORLD APPLICATION:
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Engineering technologists are found across industries—including aerospace, medical devices, manufacturing, energy, and product development. Their roles include:
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Product design and optimization
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Testing and validation
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System-level troubleshooting
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Field engineering
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Quality control and operations
With time and experience, many technologists grow into full engineering responsibilities, trusted not just for what they know—but for what they’ve proven in practice.
THE REALITY IN THE UNITED STATES:
In the U.S., the title Engineering Technologist is rarely used formally. Most companies classify roles as either Engineer or Technician, leaving little recognition for those who operate between those extremes. Despite this, many professionals—myself included—spend decades working in that middle space.
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My career has been shaped by that reality. I’ve held titles like “Technician,” but my responsibilities, output, and results reflect the true scope of an Engineering Technologist. The title may not be common—but the work is real.