I am a former electrical engineer. I would recommend doing both. One of my friends started out as an Engineering Technologist, completed the program, and worked for a few years as a technologist. He later returned to college to complete an EE degree. As a former technologist, he understood this classes at a practical level that his classmates just could not comprehend. He felt like he "ran circles" around his fellow classmates. Throughout his career, he continued to have the advantage over his coworkers because he understood the implications of his designs beyond the math, theory, etc.
honestly the difference becomes smaller when it's a 4 year Eng Tech degree vs. a 4 year Eng degree. It's probably 80% the same. Make it 95% similar when you're talking about applicable workplace skills. When you're working after a few years the difference becomes irrelevant and your work experience will take precedence over your course work.
I understand that perspective. Personally, I've seen that it starts relatively the same and later in your career it becomes a bigger gap. Chief Engineers, Engineering Managers, etc. largely have to have Engineering degree. A director of engineering at the shipyard I worked had to go back to school to get a full engineering degree in order to become a director.
My experience is much the same: At our company one of the Engineering Fellows (only one rank above exists) was an ET, from the same 4 year BSET program as myself. That program was also ABET certified. In a 40 year career and I've always held an Engineering title, thought I did spend 10 years at a small company to 'get into a design role'. It comes down to contributions, intuitive and some luck. Also at mid-career I added a MSCS (Masters, Computer Science). Good luck.
I have a question. But because I ask it let me explain. I'm currently working on getting my Electrical engineering degree at the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith, however, I didn't do too well this past semester (Fall 2024) didn't pass my Calculus I, and Physics I lab classes and got a D in macroeconomics. My work schedule changed and I couldn't do much about it so I had to work instead of going to class, I lost a bunch of money because someone broke into my car and stole my wallet while I was at work. So I tried filing a SAP appeal and got denied so I couldn't afford to go to college without my Pell Grant and student loans. I'm currently still on academic suspension until I can show I have completed some courses that pertain to my degree. The courses weren't hard I just couldn't go to class and got caught up in life lost my motivation and thought I could do better next semester. However, I've learned that my place of employment offers EET degrees from the guild program. My question is should I take some of these classes ( mainly the math classes and physics 2) and then transfer back to my university? I don't know what to do at this point and need some actual advice I really want to be an engineer.
As a fellow brotha, in a similar career space, there’s a reason why this major never crossed my mind, for me it was engineering or nothing (chemical), you can probably take a few guesses why that is, when you think of the upper levels of the supervisory/corporate leadership ladder, it’s pretty clear. I hate to think like that but when you’re ⚫️ & in university, you almost have to pre-plan how you want your career to pan out & that includes selecting a skillset/specialty that is not easy to match or replace just in case some folks try to mess with you. It’s mainly about career leverage & keeping folks off your back.
@@Gallus7631 I understand where your coming from completely my brother. I was lucky to break into upper levels of my profession. With my position, I try to open and keep the door open for youngins behind me to get their opportunity. The problem is real, but the solution is not to avoid it. I want to help be the solution.
In my country, the engineering board allows you to become an engineer with your engineering technology degree as long as you complete your honours and masters. Personally I think this route is better as you will have knowledge and experience from both prospective, making you a jack of all traits
You've reminded me: BITD, mid 1980s what separated an ET vs' an EE in the job hunt was you had two years wait before you were accepted as MTS (Member Technical Staff), but once there no stratification took place. ref: TRW et al. So much depends on what jobs you get, and for me advancing to Principal rank (at 20 years) required a MS and 10 years in a small company where design roles were assigned by capability not diploma. To that end I had performed a lot of self study to be ready for the role.
I have an ET, and I find that most people with and engineering degree just dont have a clue what ET is all about, and they honestly try hard to downplay ET mostly based on ignorance. ET focus on application of engineering principles and less on the theoritical derivations. I find that in the work place both graduates end up developing the same skills set.
@@gabriel82752 I agree. I think there are both largely the same. I don't really understand why some companies don't recognize ETs as basically engineers.
When I was in grad school I used to teach ET. It has it's place in the world. But it not the same as an engineering degree. You learn theory for a reason.
@@ahbushnell1, I agree with you, remember ET is not about becoming an engineer,but it is part of engineering. ET is about application of engineering,as such cannot be compared to engineer level. If an ET is able to do what an engineer can do, then the activity is not at complex level. At the end it is what the individual can contribute to the industry, we have captains of industry who holds a ET degree, that even engineers report to.
@@gabriel82752 Actually, you are wrong, Bachelor of Science in mechanical, electrical, civil or manufacturing engineering technology from an Abet accredited school are designed to be engineers, they can sit for the FE and PE exam in most States in the US. Manufacturing, electrical and mechanical engineering technology programs are well recognized for engineering roles. Associates or 2-year degree is designed mostly for technician roles. Civil engineering technology is not as accepted in Civil engineering fields because of the ratio of engineering majors to engineering technology majors due to FE/PE requirement for government work, hence the conclusion in this video from his own personal experience. If the Civil engineering technology major did pass the FE/PE exam, he or she can easily get an engineering job, i have seen this multiple times.
@@ogun3378, I get the confusion because of the terminology used in the video. The context of this video is USA based. In south africa there are basically 3 levels: a) 3 year Eng Diploma = Eng Technician b) 4 year BTech Eng = Eng Technologist c) 4 year BSc o BEng = Engineer In our context the 4 year Eng Technologist degree take same responsibility as the Engineer as per our national construction and building regulations, hence I said the skills set of Technologist and Engineer are similar in the work place in our context, but I agree that an Eng Technician degree is limited even in our context
I agree with your points about the differences between ET and engineering degrees, but you do not necessarily have to have a specialized engineering degree to become an “engineer”. I have an ET degree as a design engineer. I think it also depends on what field you are getting into, because every company has different education requirements in regards of employment. Personally for me, I wouldn’t care too much about what, when, or where you got your degree, I care more about if you could apply your skills you have learn on the job.
The coursework is different like you described (more hands-on) but you're still considered an engineer when applying to opportunities in my experience.
@@edartis if you graduate with no work experience, the ABET accredited engineer major and ABET accredited engineer technology major have equal amount of opportunities
@theshadow1643 I'm telling you from experience that there a certain jobs you cannot apply to. For example a engineering supervisor where I work (DOD) you HAVE to be an degreed engineer whereas you can't apply with an ET degree
@@edartis Straight of school, you wouldn't be able to land that job with an engineer degree on its own anyway. If you wanted to be eligible for those kind of jobs with an engineering technology degree, you could pass the PE exam to be a professional engineer. The government or a manufacturing company wouldn't be able to make a claim you weren't an engineer.
@theshadow1643 I said in my video that the jobs are basically the same out of college. It's later in your career when it begins to matter. And even if you got your PE, you wouldn't have been able to apply for the role I'm speaking of.
I agree with everything you said except there are a few states that allow you to get your PE without a tech degree. The most important thing is if you want to be an engineer, get an engineering degree (period) However, there are good engineering related jobs for someone with a engineering technology degree. I have a family member with a 2-year architectural technology degree; he does cost analysis and loves what he is doing. He went back to school and got a 4-year degree in architectural engineering and PE and still does what he loves which is still cost analysis. He only got his 4-year degree because you need to have a PE to make partner at his firm.
This is exactly the decision im in the process of making right now. Im in mechanical engineering technology and about to start sophomore year of spring. I keep bouncing back and forth whether ill transfer, or stay and maybe minor in math. My only priority atm is to maximize my job prospects. Thanks for the insight
If you're going to minor in math then you might as well get a engineering degree. The large difference between that and the ET degree is the advanced math classes.
Pretty sure only 40 states accept a Eng Tech degree to sit for the FE exam. It also requires 6-8 years of experience instead of 4. I had to balance out the Pro and Cons and still went Eng Tech because I could do it 100% online and at my community college. I'm a automation technician now.
@@joshuakidwell1121 Happy that someone with an ET degree actually provided that perspective. Do you feel like it was a good decision? Would you recommend your path to others?
No I would only recommend a technology degree for two reasons. You cannt pass the math classes for a engineering degree . You can take the technology classes online while your at work and have your employer pay for them. I didn't have the option for a online engineering degree just tech when I went but things may have changed now. Alot of jobs I wanted to apply for required you to sit for the FE and PE exams within a certain time after being hired. That timeline didnt work with my degree. The amount of jobs I could apply for was also halfed.
I think you lay out the differences well. And are 1000% right the two aren’t the same. But I think you should be careful about saying what NOT to go into. We need both Engineers and Technologists. (ETs). As you mentioned at 1:47 Engineering focuses on theoretical and design while Technologist focus on the practical application. Both use problem solving skills, but in different ways. Engineers use it to create something that solves a problem, Technologists resolve problems cause by crappy engineering 😂 Also saying an Engineer can do anything a Technologist can but not vice versa isn’t true. Engineers do what they do with education and training, Technologist do what they do through… education and training… you’re not picking up half the tools a Technologist can use and using them WELL without extensive training and practice. Your career paths section is pretty accurate too. But the two need to work closely together. You are right that the salary averages are higher for engineers, but there’s not limited job opportunities for ETs… its only limited if you’re trying to go for the same job that Engineering degree people are going for. I have an ET AAS and I make more than most of the Engineers at my startup. Both hardware and software. I also manage a team of 8 engineers, some of which have Masters. My team takes the designs from the Mech or Electrical engineering teams and we apply them in the field and make corrections to them when things don’t work as intended. Anyway, I like the video. More people who are aware of the ETs and go into them for what they are the better. Don’t knock the salary or growth potential because practical and application engineering is lacking, take it from this AAS who is running circles around all the Stanford and Berkeley grads at his company. Anyway, one thing is for sure… engineering, engineering technology, vocational, etc are way better and more fun career paths than any other career path out there. Not an opinion, true facts.
@@CalebHoss37804 I completely agree and personally think ETs have just as much if not more knowledge in their area of expertise than engineers. I've just seen them get the short end of the stick even though they're sometime more qualified. I just want prospects to be weary of that going in. And, you can absolutely reach the career high and salaries comparable to engineers but like you said they won't be necessary in the engineering field specifically. Thank you for your feedback!
As an electrical engineering technologist from Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and non ABET accredited, too. I agree with you. I have been looking for a job since my graduation in 2019, even with a coop (internship) in Saudi Aramco with two KFUPM (most of graduates are working with reputable oil & gas companies) coop trainees. So people do NOT waste your time and money for a technical engineering degree. Peace✌️
I don’t know your full experience with employment but I feel as though most companies wouldn’t hire you because your degree is non ABET accredited. If it was I think it would be a different story.
@thatonedudebaker4765 Thank you for your input. I understand that ABET accreditation can be important for some employers, especially in the international job market. However, I have two years of hands-on experience in the field, including a valuable internship with Saudi Aramco, where I worked alongside graduates from top universities like KFUPM. I believe that practical experience, skill development, and the ability to perform on the job are equally important, and many companies are recognizing this. While accreditation is helpful, real-world experience plays a key role in the hiring process, too.
@thatonedudebaker4765 Thank you for your input. While I understand the importance of ABET accreditation, my two years of experience, though in roles like dispatcher and clerk, have still helped me develop valuable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and project coordination. I’ve also had a technical internship with Saudi Aramco, which provided industry exposure and practical engineering experience. I believe that even without ABET accreditation, my hands-on work and dedication to learning are assets I bring to future opportunities.
@edartis Yes. Due to employers not understanding what an engineering tech is they have trouble gauging where my knowledge and skill set should place me among industrial maintenance and engineering roles.
I'm surprised no one mentioned that an engineering tech degree is usually considered a terminal degree but a regular engineering degree. especially electrical, is a great entry point to grad school and all the specialized fields ranging from quantitative finance to biomedical to medicine.A tech degree might get you into a second tier MBA, but that's just cause the programs aren''t especially technically demanding. Indeed, with a regular eng degree, most firms will pay your tuition for a Masters. There's also the fact that the first two years are the selection years. The schools make no attempt to determine who is going to make a good engineering. Indeed they pile you with more work than most can handle and expect half to drop out. 0:02
@@ahbushnell1 what I did was go back for an MSCS. I didn't want to repeat remedial coursework just to have an EE's salute on my BSET. As a result, i.e. starting a whole new program I got a few credits from the the undergrad, but the masters took 5 years including 5 semesters of math. Just like many people who come from Biology or other sciences to CS.
this guy is so biased, Technologists redesigns; because you cannot implement something that is wrong, might be a drawing or a program! in most cases we are part of design teams or project managers.
@@edartis I wish you well. My first 3 years as an ET were quite frustrating but making adjustments and later perusing a technical masters got me through. One fellow I've known, ET in Aero got an MBA and became a department manager. There are multiple solutions to this issue.
True too in California. I have one colleague that did so. He found being a PE was enough (and his ET being from an ABET certified program) closed the gap.
I am a 4th year student my Linkedin category says "/Technology" in the end and this is the first time hearing that there are these "technology degrees" out there
This video is useless because you are making wide generalizations that are not backed up by facts instead you use personal anecdotes. Engineering training differs greatly depending on where in the world you study it,what you are claiming is the focus of engineering science and engineering technology is completely doesn't apply in my country. Engineering technology and engineering science studies almost 90% similar concepts with the exception that eng Sci has more mathematics classes than eng techs, especially applied math, other than that we study the same stuff and do the same jobs
I'm an engineering technology major. You're right. Since I'm already almost finished my 2 year, my plan is to finish my 4 year and then take advanced math courses to get my degree transferred into an engineering degree. Is that a good idea to change it after my BA or should I be seeking to change it after me Associates? I've never worked in a technician role yet but I know I want to get my PhD one day.
I’m doing my AAS in Mechanical Engineering Technology at New York City college of Technology and luckily my AAS classes can transfer to the University of Stony Brook at Long Island to get my BE in Mechanical Engineering because the AAS classes I took were pure calculus based courses Is this path a good idea? Just want to hear your thoughts
@@Jeremyduru14 I personally think it's the best course of action because it will benefit you in the long run. In this case, you're not even being set back with classes you've already taken which is rare. You should definitely sit down with an advisor and see if there are any other hurdles that will come with switching. Some of my classmates were setback a couple of semesters because they weren't made aware of what their new curriculum would look like.
@@edartis Already submitted my application to transfer to Stony Brook Thank you And also I have a few questions, over at Stony Brook I have to take courses like Chemistry 1&2 w lab, Calculus 3, linear algebra, Differential equations, and statistics to complete all of my general education. I have already took the the other general education during my AAS degree like University Physics 1&2 and Calculus 1&2 English 1&2 and the rest I took were my Engineering courses like statics, dynamics, Mechanics of solid, Material Science, Mechanical Design, Thermodynamics, Circuits Analysis and Material Testing Laboratory “witch is like nuclear science with materials”.
I am doing mechanical engineer right now as a freshman I want to switch to civil or industrial engineer because I want a lesser workload but I still want to be an engineer I just want to be able to balance sports and school is industrial and civil engineering the studying of it relatively chill?
Engineering isn't easy...within any concentration. I think many people find (believe) electrical is the most challenging as EM is so tied to the underlying physics.
If your leetcode is good, you’ll get hired. That’s softwares whole thing “anyone can learn anywhere” “everyone should learn to code” and no many more industry mantras. As long as you’re proficient you should be good, cause I know too many comp sci majors who can barely get past making a method let alone integrating a class
Do you feel that it is makes a difference if the technology program is ABET accredited? I am currently looking at the IET program at The University of Southern Mississippi which is ABET accredited. It is 100% online. My current plan is to stay in the program long enough to complete the 5 classes at USM that Mississippi State University doesnt offer online for their Industrial Engineering degree, but if ABET makes a difference for the IET program I may just stay with the USM program.
So my breakdown of ET degrees are assuming the school was ABET accredited. Non-accredited programs will make the pathway to your PE very difficult and some states won't recognize non-accredited degrees.
I went to a non-ABET community college, I didn't know about ABET at the time. None of my classes transferred to a university or even other community colleges.
So I was looking into an Engineering Technology Program that’s actually 4 years instead of 2. They’re telling me when we graduate the degree actually says Engineer. So my question is would it differ with it being a longer program than a typical 2 year degree?
Well my university only offered Engineering Technology as a 4 year degree and I think that is the standard now. Even that 4 year degree does not show up as a full engineering. There may be some cases where the course load is the same and it would however.
@@MrRharr249 Anytime! Definitely find out the details of the degree because the specifics will matter greatly as you move throughout your engineering career
I am a former electrical engineer. I would recommend doing both. One of my friends started out as an Engineering Technologist, completed the program, and worked for a few years as a technologist. He later returned to college to complete an EE degree. As a former technologist, he understood this classes at a practical level that his classmates just could not comprehend. He felt like he "ran circles" around his fellow classmates. Throughout his career, he continued to have the advantage over his coworkers because he understood the implications of his designs beyond the math, theory, etc.
Great idea!
This is what I needed
honestly the difference becomes smaller when it's a 4 year Eng Tech degree vs. a 4 year Eng degree. It's probably 80% the same. Make it 95% similar when you're talking about applicable workplace skills. When you're working after a few years the difference becomes irrelevant and your work experience will take precedence over your course work.
I understand that perspective. Personally, I've seen that it starts relatively the same and later in your career it becomes a bigger gap. Chief Engineers, Engineering Managers, etc. largely have to have Engineering degree. A director of engineering at the shipyard I worked had to go back to school to get a full engineering degree in order to become a director.
My experience is much the same: At our company one of the Engineering Fellows (only one rank above exists) was an ET, from the same 4 year BSET program as myself. That program was also ABET certified.
In a 40 year career and I've always held an Engineering title, thought I did spend 10 years at a small company to 'get into a design role'. It comes down to contributions, intuitive and some luck. Also at mid-career I added a MSCS (Masters, Computer Science). Good luck.
I have a question. But because I ask it let me explain. I'm currently working on getting my Electrical engineering degree at the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith, however, I didn't do too well this past semester (Fall 2024) didn't pass my Calculus I, and Physics I lab classes and got a D in macroeconomics. My work schedule changed and I couldn't do much about it so I had to work instead of going to class, I lost a bunch of money because someone broke into my car and stole my wallet while I was at work. So I tried filing a SAP appeal and got denied so I couldn't afford to go to college without my Pell Grant and student loans. I'm currently still on academic suspension until I can show I have completed some courses that pertain to my degree. The courses weren't hard I just couldn't go to class and got caught up in life lost my motivation and thought I could do better next semester. However, I've learned that my place of employment offers EET degrees from the guild program.
My question is should I take some of these classes ( mainly the math classes and physics 2) and then transfer back to my university? I don't know what to do at this point and need some actual advice I really want to be an engineer.
As a fellow brotha, in a similar career space, there’s a reason why this major never crossed my mind, for me it was engineering or nothing (chemical), you can probably take a few guesses why that is, when you think of the upper levels of the supervisory/corporate leadership ladder, it’s pretty clear. I hate to think like that but when you’re ⚫️ & in university, you almost have to pre-plan how you want your career to pan out & that includes selecting a skillset/specialty that is not easy to match or replace just in case some folks try to mess with you. It’s mainly about career leverage & keeping folks off your back.
@@Gallus7631 I understand where your coming from completely my brother. I was lucky to break into upper levels of my profession. With my position, I try to open and keep the door open for youngins behind me to get their opportunity. The problem is real, but the solution is not to avoid it. I want to help be the solution.
In my country, the engineering board allows you to become an engineer with your engineering technology degree as long as you complete your honours and masters. Personally I think this route is better as you will have knowledge and experience from both prospective, making you a jack of all traits
Hmmm.... That would be an interesting path. What country is this?
@edartis South Africa, our board is the ECSA. The Engineering Council of South Africa and it's accredited by the Washington Accord.
You've reminded me: BITD, mid 1980s what separated an ET vs' an EE in the job hunt was you had two years wait before you were accepted as MTS (Member Technical Staff), but once there no stratification took place. ref: TRW et al.
So much depends on what jobs you get, and for me advancing to Principal rank (at 20 years) required a MS and 10 years in a small company where design roles were assigned by capability not diploma. To that end I had performed a lot of self study to be ready for the role.
I have an ET, and I find that most people with and engineering degree just dont have a clue what ET is all about, and they honestly try hard to downplay ET mostly based on ignorance. ET focus on application of engineering principles and less on the theoritical derivations. I find that in the work place both graduates end up developing the same skills set.
@@gabriel82752 I agree. I think there are both largely the same. I don't really understand why some companies don't recognize ETs as basically engineers.
When I was in grad school I used to teach ET. It has it's place in the world. But it not the same as an engineering degree. You learn theory for a reason.
@@ahbushnell1, I agree with you, remember ET is not about becoming an engineer,but it is part of engineering. ET is about application of engineering,as such cannot be compared to engineer level. If an ET is able to do what an engineer can do, then the activity is not at complex level. At the end it is what the individual can contribute to the industry, we have captains of industry who holds a ET degree, that even engineers report to.
@@gabriel82752
Actually, you are wrong, Bachelor of Science in mechanical, electrical, civil or manufacturing engineering technology from an Abet accredited school are designed to be engineers, they can sit for the FE and PE exam in most States in the US. Manufacturing, electrical and mechanical engineering technology programs are well recognized for engineering roles.
Associates or 2-year degree is designed mostly for technician roles.
Civil engineering technology is not as accepted in Civil engineering fields because of the ratio of engineering majors to engineering technology majors due to FE/PE requirement for government work, hence the conclusion in this video from his own personal experience. If the Civil engineering technology major did pass the FE/PE exam, he or she can easily get an engineering job, i have seen this multiple times.
@@ogun3378, I get the confusion because of the terminology used in the video. The context of this video is USA based. In south africa there are basically 3 levels:
a) 3 year Eng Diploma = Eng Technician
b) 4 year BTech Eng = Eng Technologist
c) 4 year BSc o BEng = Engineer
In our context the 4 year Eng Technologist degree take same responsibility as the Engineer as per our national construction and building regulations, hence I said the skills set of Technologist and Engineer are similar in the work place in our context, but I agree that an Eng Technician degree is limited even in our context
I agree with your points about the differences between ET and engineering degrees, but you do not necessarily have to have a specialized engineering degree to become an “engineer”. I have an ET degree as a design engineer. I think it also depends on what field you are getting into, because every company has different education requirements in regards of employment. Personally for me, I wouldn’t care too much about what, when, or where you got your degree, I care more about if you could apply your skills you have learn on the job.
Oh yes you definitely can get engineering roles with an ET degree. My point was just you have a lot less opportunities and are more limited.
The coursework is different like you described (more hands-on) but you're still considered an engineer when applying to opportunities in my experience.
@@the_shadow_kn0 You are for some opportunities, but some opportunities you're not considered an engineer.
@@edartis if you graduate with no work experience, the ABET accredited engineer major and ABET accredited engineer technology major have equal amount of opportunities
@theshadow1643 I'm telling you from experience that there a certain jobs you cannot apply to. For example a engineering supervisor where I work (DOD) you HAVE to be an degreed engineer whereas you can't apply with an ET degree
@@edartis Straight of school, you wouldn't be able to land that job with an engineer degree on its own anyway. If you wanted to be eligible for those kind of jobs with an engineering technology degree, you could pass the PE exam to be a professional engineer. The government or a manufacturing company wouldn't be able to make a claim you weren't an engineer.
@theshadow1643 I said in my video that the jobs are basically the same out of college. It's later in your career when it begins to matter. And even if you got your PE, you wouldn't have been able to apply for the role I'm speaking of.
I agree with everything you said except there are a few states that allow you to get your PE without a tech degree. The most important thing is if you want to be an engineer, get an engineering degree (period) However, there are good engineering related jobs for someone with a engineering technology degree. I have a family member with a 2-year architectural technology degree; he does cost analysis and loves what he is doing. He went back to school and got a 4-year degree in architectural engineering and PE and still does what he loves which is still cost analysis. He only got his 4-year degree because you need to have a PE to make partner at his firm.
@@michaelmurray6351 Great insight! Thanks for sharing your personal experience with the topic.
This is exactly the decision im in the process of making right now. Im in mechanical engineering technology and about to start sophomore year of spring. I keep bouncing back and forth whether ill transfer, or stay and maybe minor in math. My only priority atm is to maximize my job prospects. Thanks for the insight
I got Into a general engineering degree after finishing my business degree 😅
@@MikaelBorg-o6bwhy
If you're going to minor in math then you might as well get a engineering degree. The large difference between that and the ET degree is the advanced math classes.
Pretty sure only 40 states accept a Eng Tech degree to sit for the FE exam. It also requires 6-8 years of experience instead of 4. I had to balance out the Pro and Cons and still went Eng Tech because I could do it 100% online and at my community college. I'm a automation technician now.
@@joshuakidwell1121 Happy that someone with an ET degree actually provided that perspective. Do you feel like it was a good decision? Would you recommend your path to others?
No I would only recommend a technology degree for two reasons.
You cannt pass the math classes for a engineering degree .
You can take the technology classes online while your at work and have your employer pay for them.
I didn't have the option for a online engineering degree just tech when I went but things may have changed now.
Alot of jobs I wanted to apply for required you to sit for the FE and PE exams within a certain time after being hired. That timeline didnt work with my degree. The amount of jobs I could apply for was also halfed.
I think you lay out the differences well. And are 1000% right the two aren’t the same. But I think you should be careful about saying what NOT to go into.
We need both Engineers and Technologists. (ETs). As you mentioned at 1:47 Engineering focuses on theoretical and design while Technologist focus on the practical application. Both use problem solving skills, but in different ways.
Engineers use it to create something that solves a problem, Technologists resolve problems cause by crappy engineering 😂
Also saying an Engineer can do anything a Technologist can but not vice versa isn’t true. Engineers do what they do with education and training, Technologist do what they do through… education and training… you’re not picking up half the tools a Technologist can use and using them WELL without extensive training and practice.
Your career paths section is pretty accurate too. But the two need to work closely together.
You are right that the salary averages are higher for engineers, but there’s not limited job opportunities for ETs… its only limited if you’re trying to go for the same job that Engineering degree people are going for.
I have an ET AAS and I make more than most of the Engineers at my startup. Both hardware and software. I also manage a team of 8 engineers, some of which have Masters. My team takes the designs from the Mech or Electrical engineering teams and we apply them in the field and make corrections to them when things don’t work as intended.
Anyway, I like the video. More people who are aware of the ETs and go into them for what they are the better. Don’t knock the salary or growth potential because practical and application engineering is lacking, take it from this AAS who is running circles around all the Stanford and Berkeley grads at his company.
Anyway, one thing is for sure… engineering, engineering technology, vocational, etc are way better and more fun career paths than any other career path out there. Not an opinion, true facts.
@@CalebHoss37804 I completely agree and personally think ETs have just as much if not more knowledge in their area of expertise than engineers. I've just seen them get the short end of the stick even though they're sometime more qualified. I just want prospects to be weary of that going in.
And, you can absolutely reach the career high and salaries comparable to engineers but like you said they won't be necessary in the engineering field specifically. Thank you for your feedback!
As an electrical engineering technologist from Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 and non ABET accredited, too. I agree with you. I have been looking for a job since my graduation in 2019, even with a coop (internship) in Saudi Aramco with two KFUPM (most of graduates are working with reputable oil & gas companies) coop trainees. So people do NOT waste your time and money for a technical engineering degree. Peace✌️
I don’t know your full experience with employment but I feel as though most companies wouldn’t hire you because your degree is non ABET accredited. If it was I think it would be a different story.
@thatonedudebaker4765
Thank you for your input. I understand that ABET accreditation can be important for some employers, especially in the international job market. However, I have two years of hands-on experience in the field, including a valuable internship with Saudi Aramco, where I worked alongside graduates from top universities like KFUPM. I believe that practical experience, skill development, and the ability to perform on the job are equally important, and many companies are recognizing this. While accreditation is helpful, real-world experience plays a key role in the hiring process, too.
@thatonedudebaker4765 Thank you for your input. While I understand the importance of ABET accreditation, my two years of experience, though in roles like dispatcher and clerk, have still helped me develop valuable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and project coordination. I’ve also had a technical internship with Saudi Aramco, which provided industry exposure and practical engineering experience. I believe that even without ABET accreditation, my hands-on work and dedication to learning are assets I bring to future opportunities.
Engineering Technology degree holder here, theres a reason why many community colleges have dropped ET for Industrial Maintenance.
Has it ever given you trouble in your career vs. having a pure engineering degree?
@edartis Yes. Due to employers not understanding what an engineering tech is they have trouble gauging where my knowledge and skill set should place me among industrial maintenance and engineering roles.
@@PaulGeorgeIV gotcha! I wish that wasn't the case. In my opinion, the hands on experience is always vastly more important than the book knowledge.
I'm surprised no one mentioned that an engineering tech degree is usually considered a terminal degree but a regular engineering degree. especially electrical, is a great entry point to grad school and all the specialized fields ranging from quantitative finance to biomedical to medicine.A tech degree might get you into a second tier MBA, but that's just cause the programs aren''t especially technically demanding. Indeed, with a regular eng degree, most firms will pay your tuition for a Masters.
There's also the fact that the first two years are the selection years. The schools make no attempt to determine who is going to make a good engineering. Indeed they pile you with more work than most can handle and expect half to drop out. 0:02
A tech degree is not a prep for grad school. A BSEE is. or MSME ....
@@ahbushnell1 what I did was go back for an MSCS. I didn't want to repeat remedial coursework just to have an EE's salute on my BSET. As a result, i.e. starting a whole new program I got a few credits from the the undergrad, but the masters took 5 years including 5 semesters of math. Just like many people who come from Biology or other sciences to CS.
Very insightful, thanks for the video.
Thanks for watching! Glad you found it insightful.
Fully supported and in agreement.
Good to hear!
this guy is so biased, Technologists redesigns; because you cannot implement something that is wrong, might be a drawing or a program! in most cases we are part of design teams or project managers.
He's not biased just speaking facts and truth that is hard for some people to handle
Thank you. I am just speaking on what I have seen in my decade in the industry. Everyone's experience is different.
@@edartis I wish you well. My first 3 years as an ET were quite frustrating but making adjustments and later perusing a technical masters got me through.
One fellow I've known, ET in Aero got an MBA and became a department manager. There are multiple solutions to this issue.
thank you, very well explained
@@TRADEskillsUP Thanks!
In Texas, after 8 years of experience you can apply for PE with engineering tech degree (4 year Degree),
Yes, this is true for VA as well. It's either 6 or 10 years depending on the program
True too in California. I have one colleague that did so. He found being a PE was enough (and his ET being from an ABET certified program) closed the gap.
Engineering with applied engineering by doing 6 mnth or 1 year internship is still way superior
How do I do that
Ho do I do that
I am a 4th year student my Linkedin category says "/Technology" in the end and this is the first time hearing that there are these "technology degrees" out there
What's your major?
@edartis Automotive engineering
This video is useless because you are making wide generalizations that are not backed up by facts instead you use personal anecdotes. Engineering training differs greatly depending on where in the world you study it,what you are claiming is the focus of engineering science and engineering technology is completely doesn't apply in my country. Engineering technology and engineering science studies almost 90% similar concepts with the exception that eng Sci has more mathematics classes than eng techs, especially applied math, other than that we study the same stuff and do the same jobs
What country are you from?
I'm an engineering technology major. You're right. Since I'm already almost finished my 2 year, my plan is to finish my 4 year and then take advanced math courses to get my degree transferred into an engineering degree. Is that a good idea to change it after my BA or should I be seeking to change it after me Associates? I've never worked in a technician role yet but I know I want to get my PhD one day.
I just finished school in June I cannot find a job with associates degree
It depends on your institution and if they would allow that. Definitely discuss that with the advisors.
I’m doing my AAS in Mechanical Engineering Technology at New York City college of Technology and luckily my AAS classes can transfer to the University of Stony Brook at Long Island to get my BE in Mechanical Engineering because the AAS classes I took were pure calculus based courses
Is this path a good idea?
Just want to hear your thoughts
@@Jeremyduru14 I personally think it's the best course of action because it will benefit you in the long run. In this case, you're not even being set back with classes you've already taken which is rare.
You should definitely sit down with an advisor and see if there are any other hurdles that will come with switching. Some of my classmates were setback a couple of semesters because they weren't made aware of what their new curriculum would look like.
@@edartis Already submitted my application to transfer to Stony Brook Thank you
And also I have a few questions, over at Stony Brook I have to take courses like Chemistry 1&2 w lab, Calculus 3, linear algebra, Differential equations, and statistics to complete all of my general education. I have already took the the other general education during my AAS degree like University Physics 1&2 and Calculus 1&2 English 1&2 and the rest I took were my Engineering courses like statics, dynamics, Mechanics of solid, Material Science, Mechanical Design, Thermodynamics, Circuits Analysis and Material Testing Laboratory “witch is like nuclear science with materials”.
@@Jeremyduru14 I'm sorry. What was the question?
I am doing mechanical engineer right now as a freshman I want to switch to civil or industrial engineer because I want a lesser workload but I still want to be an engineer I just want to be able to balance sports and school is industrial and civil engineering the studying of it relatively chill?
As a degreed civil engineer I never thought the coursework was in anyway easier for civil/industrial vs. mechanical.
Engineering isn't easy...within any concentration. I think many people find (believe) electrical is the most challenging as EM is so tied to the underlying physics.
Has anyone experienced a ET in technology but has categories like cybersecurity, or like what I concentrate in software development?
If your leetcode is good, you’ll get hired. That’s softwares whole thing “anyone can learn anywhere” “everyone should learn to code” and no many more industry mantras. As long as you’re proficient you should be good, cause I know too many comp sci majors who can barely get past making a method let alone integrating a class
Do you feel that it is makes a difference if the technology program is ABET accredited? I am currently looking at the IET program at The University of Southern Mississippi which is ABET accredited. It is 100% online. My current plan is to stay in the program long enough to complete the 5 classes at USM that Mississippi State University doesnt offer online for their Industrial Engineering degree, but if ABET makes a difference for the IET program I may just stay with the USM program.
So my breakdown of ET degrees are assuming the school was ABET accredited. Non-accredited programs will make the pathway to your PE very difficult and some states won't recognize non-accredited degrees.
I went to a non-ABET community college, I didn't know about ABET at the time. None of my classes transferred to a university or even other community colleges.
Well, that settles it
😂😂
So I was looking into an Engineering Technology Program that’s actually 4 years instead of 2. They’re telling me when we graduate the degree actually says Engineer. So my question is would it differ with it being a longer program than a typical 2 year degree?
Well my university only offered Engineering Technology as a 4 year degree and I think that is the standard now. Even that 4 year degree does not show up as a full engineering. There may be some cases where the course load is the same and it would however.
@@edartis so maybe they have couple things that allows it to be an engineer degree at the end of the that makes since. Thx man
@@MrRharr249 Anytime! Definitely find out the details of the degree because the specifics will matter greatly as you move throughout your engineering career