Do Engineers Make Good Managers?

Arnold, Timothy D. ; Arnold, James R.
Organization: Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration
Pages: 6
Publication Date: Jan 1, 2001
Email to a Friend Abstract
The mathematical rigor of the collegiate engineering experience prepares an engineer well for the technical aspects of his or her career. However, as that engineer progresses in the industry, how well does he or she do as a manager? The exacting, detailed, and complete problem-solving process that engineers are trained to use sometimes conflicts with the nimble, rapid decision-making process required in the dynamic world of business. This paper discusses the topic of "engineers as managers.”It will investigate the personality traits of engineers relative to the traits of successful managers, and provide specific details about how well engineers have done in the field of management.
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