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MAINTAINING FLEXIBILITY IN AN AGE OF STRESS AND RAPID CHANGE 70 ⢠A major worldwide depression ⢠A strong economic resurgence leading to a "boom" economy ⢠A critical shortfall of essential materials (e.g., oil) ⢠A widespread resurgence of antitechnology sentiment ⢠A quadrupling of the cost of education. Because of the uncertainty about what eventsâand how manyâmight occur that would affect engineering, it cannot be simply assumed that the engineering supply system is well equipped to meet any conceivable future. Each of the scenarios would create stress within the engineering community; even today there are numerous problems of engineering manpower supply, particularly in the area of education. In the context of a discussion of flexibility, it would be well to look specifically at these current stresses. WHERE ARE THE GREATEST STRESSES APPEARING IN THE SYSTEM? Under current conditions, a number of points of particular stress can be identified in the engineering community and the engineering supply system. Some of the stress points are perhaps temporary, while others are more long term in their effects; but no attempt is made here to distinguish them on that basis. Instead, they are divided into those that primarily affect the engineering educational system and those that place stress on the engineering community in general. Educational System Stresses ⢠The undercapitalization of engineering education; that is, inadequate funding for plant, laboratory equipment, and faculty salaries. ⢠Overloading of engineering-school classrooms and, conversely, the rejection of some qualified applicants. ⢠Divergent pressures regarding educational content (more specialization versus generalist technical training versus more liberal arts study). General Stresses ⢠Technological obsolescence or displacement of engineers, brought about by both new technology (including automation) and discontinuous change in technology. ⢠Diminishing pool of 18-year-olds over the next 15 years, resulting in reduced engineering personnel supply.
MAINTAINING FLEXIBILITY IN AN AGE OF STRESS AND RAPID CHANGE 71 ⢠Dominance of government demand for engineering goods and services in the marketplace. ⢠Fluctuating societal attitudes toward engineering and technology, which influence the demand for engineering-intensive products. ⢠The increased emphasis on factory automation and new manufacturing processes. ⢠Increased demand for and perceived shortages of engineers trained in information and computer sciences.
