The American Society for Engineering Education Engineering Technology Council defines Engineering Technology as the profession in which knowledge of mathematics and natural sciences gained by higher education, experience and practices is devoted primarily to the implementation and extension of existing technology for the benefit of humanity. Engineering technology education focuses primarily on the applied aspects of science and engineering aimed at preparing graduates for the practice in that portion of the technological spectrum closest to product improvement, manufacturing, and engineering operational functions. The engineering technologist is often employed in routine design, production and manufacturing areas rather than advanced design, process development, or research.
Engineers develop new technologies and solve unique problems.
Engineering Technologists apply existing technologies to solve routine problems. The engineering technologist enters the work place in a productive mode. Salaries for Engineering Technology graduates are near that of the engineer. Advanced educational opportunities are more limited for the engineering technology graduate than the engineering graduate. Many seek Master of Science degrees in Industrial Engineering, Interdisciplinary Engineering, Business or Law.