To define it rudely but not inaptly, engineering is the art of doing that well with one dollar which any bungler can do with two dollars. All engineers, at one time or another, find themselves trying to explain their job to a friend or relative. This is often due to misunderstandings about what engineers actually do.
Engineering is a specific profession which uses science and mathematics to solve technical problems.
While engineers concentrate on developing and using technology, it is important to remember that there was technology long before there was engineering. While the scientific and technological communities have some similarities, they also have profound differences. First you have to break down people's misconceptions Your aunt thinks you work for the railroad while a cousin figures you must have something to do with sanitation . Such abuse is tough to take , but if you can survive Engineering Thermodynamics you can survive this. Take a deep breath and politely explain that you are an engineer who understands a little chemistry, not a chemist who builds things.