The following definition of engineering technology was established by the Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, and was approved by the Engineering Technology Council of the American Society for Engineering Education. Engineering technology is the profession in which a knowledge of mathematics and natural sciences gained by higher education, experience, and practice 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 practice in that portion of the technological spectrum closest to product improvement, manufacturing, construction, and engineering operational functions. Thus engineering technology is the application of engineering principles and modern technology to help solve or prevent technical problems.
Engineering technology is a relatively new discipline.
College-bound students had three choices. Choice number one meant selection of a major from among the pure sciences, such as physics, chemistry, or biology. However, these majors are appropriate only for people interested in pursuing additional degrees, laboratory research, or careers in education. The second choice involved selection from among the engineering science majors like civil engineering, electrical engineering, or mechanical engineering. But engineering requires highly developed analytical skills and prepares people for careers conceptualizing and designing technical devices or systems.