Importance of society to engineers

Man is a social being; no one can live or work alone. Engineering is a service to people, so it exists only because of human needs in a society.

Why man and society are important to the engineering profession

• Need creates engineering: roads, water supply, housing, electricity and communication are built because society needs them.
• Society is the client and user: engineers' designs are used, paid for and affected by the public; success is judged by public benefit and safety.
• Source of resources: society provides education, finance, labour, materials and legal support for engineering work.
• Source of knowledge and recognition: the profession is given status and licence (e.g. by Nepal Engineering Council) by society's consent.
• Feedback and acceptance: social values, culture and environment decide which solutions are acceptable and sustainable.
• Man as team member: engineering is done in teams of colleagues, workers, clients and communities.

Why society is necessary for engineers

• Gives a market and jobs, and protects engineers through laws.
• Supplies the skilled people and institutions for training and research.
• Gives social security, identity and moral guidance.

Roles of an engineer in society

1. Problem solver and designer: converts needs into safe, economical works.
2. Planner and developer: helps in national development and poverty reduction.
3. Manager and leader: manages people, money and projects.
4. Protector of public safety, health and environment.
5. Innovator and educator: introduces new technology and trains others.
6. Adviser to the government and community in policy and technical decisions.
7. Ethical role model who follows the code of conduct and serves the public interest.