T00125101 Essay 1

B.Sc. (Hons) in Civil Engineering - CE400

Semester 8: The Engineer in Society
Student Name: Daniel O Sullivan

ESSAY 1
Lecturer: John Jones
Date: 20/02/2024

Rev Date Description Revised Checked Issued to Status

by by
0 02/02/2024 Essay 1 DOS N.A J.J FC
1 20/02/2024 Essay 1 DOS N.A J.J PS
 T00125101 Essay 1

Declaration of Originality Form

(In accordance with MTU Kerry Quality

Assurance Procedure A 5.2)

Name: Daniel O Sullivan

T Number: T00125101
Class Group and Module Title: CE400, The Engineer in Society.
Assignment Title: Essay 1

Students are advised to inform themselves of the University’s Anti-Plagiarism Policy.

I confirm that this assignment is my own work and that I have:

Familiarised myself with the University’s Anti-Plagiarism Policy. ☒

Used the University’s approved referencing style throughout. ☒

Clearly referenced, in both the text and the bibliography or references, all sources used in
the work. ☒

Not made use of the work of any other student(s) past or present without acknowledgment.
This includes any of my own work, that has been previously, or concurrently, submitted for
assessment, either at this or any other educational institution. ☒
Not sought or used the services of any professional agencies to produce this work. ☒
In addition, I understand that any false claim in respect of this work will result in disciplinary
action in accordance with University’s regulations. ☒

DECLARATION:
I am aware of and understand the University’s policy on plagiarism and I certify that this
assignment is my own work, except where indicated by reference, and that I have
followed the good academic practices noted above

Signed: Daniel O Sullivan

 T00125101 Essay 1

Should engineers take a role in running our country.

"Engineering is achieving function while avoiding failure." - Henry Petroski
It has been said by a well-known member of the British royal family that "everything not
invented by God is invented by an engineer". It is a perfect summation of just how significant
the work of the engineer really is. If we examine their role in society, engineers are enablers
and innovators, who creatively and seamlessly combine technology led solutions with the
needs of people. This involvement in government could enhance the countries prospects.
According to research conducted by the “Times of India” in 2013, 45% of the elite companies
similar to Facebook, Microsoft, Apple, & Netflix have CEO's with an engineering background.
In My opinion engineers can play a valuable role in government due to their analytical skills,
problem-solving abilities, and technical expertise. Their knowledge can contribute to the
development of effective policies, especially in areas such as infrastructure, technology, and
environmental sustainability. However, the involvement of engineers in government should
be balanced with input from individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise to ensure a
broad perspective on policy issues. Ultimately, the decision to involve engineers in
government depends on the specific needs and priorities of the government and the society it
serves.
Engineers are utilised as part in the delivery process and are not being engaged enough in the
planning phases of major projects and government. Engineer’s have many useful transferable
skills to offer in running our country. Engineers have the skills to adapt and make rational
decisions responsibly such as forward planning, efficiency and delivery. Engineers over time
have demonstrated achieving successful targets over time for example in infrastructure
projects.
Civil engineers create, improve and protect the environment in which we live. They plan,
design and oversee construction and maintenance of building structures and infrastructure,
such as roads, railways, airports, bridges.

Engineers already play a role in running the country through various areas such as policy. There
are various examples of engineers helping to shape policy, for example senior technical
external experts are engaged by select committees to give their opinion on topics such as long-
term infrastructure planning. At a local level this would have happened on the Macroom
bypass project.
In addition, industry bodies such as the Institution of Civil Engineers frequently publish
position papers on topics such as Infrastructure or regulation of utilities. Engineers will also be
engaged within local authorities to forward plan developments. An example of this would be
the Kerry County development plan in place to improve the counties infrastructure and
maintain control of its development for example in implementation of compact growth in
urban areas and green way developments in rural areas fit for purpose.
The primary role for engineers and political leaders in my view is to create the guidance
compass for change and do it through systems and an integrated approach.

Page | 1
 T00125101 Essay 1

Good governance is underpinned by five core principles that a good engineer will also
demonstrate. An organization that uses good governance is one that always, in word and
action, demonstrates: accountability; leadership; integrity; stewardship; and transparency.
A government led or assisted by engineers might prioritise data-driven decision-making,
efficiency, and problem-solving. It could potentially focus on evidence-based policies,
technology integration, and infrastructure development. Engineers often approach problems
with a systematic, analytical mindset, which could influence the governance style to be more
process-oriented and focused on practical solutions.

However, it's important to note that governance also requires input from a diverse range of
perspectives, including those of politicians, social scientists, and other stakeholders to ensure
inclusivity and representation of the population's needs and values.

The social responsibilities of engineers include human safety and environmental protection in
engineering designs. The country is an ever-evolving issue as is society. Engineer’s acting
ethically with their skills in place can navigate a government through an ever-evolving society.

The further involvement of engineers in future government can bring several benefits such as
technical expertise where engineers can provide valuable technical knowledge and insights in
areas such as infrastructure, energy, technology, and environmental sustainability, helping to
inform evidence-based policy decisions.

Problem-solving skills having engineers that are trained to approach complex problems
systematically, which can be valuable in addressing the multifaceted challenges that
governments face.

Innovation and creativity involve engineers that are often innovators and creative thinkers,
capable of developing new solutions to old problems and driving technological advancements
that can benefit society.

Project management where many engineers have experience in overseeing a project, which
can be useful in overseeing and implementing government initiatives, particularly in
infrastructure and technology-related projects.

Analytical thinking involving engineers who are trained to think analytically and critically,
which can aid in evaluating policies and making data-driven decisions.

Interdisciplinary collaboration are engineers who often work in multidisciplinary teams,

allowing them to collaborate effectively with professionals from diverse backgrounds within
government and across different sectors.

Identifying a strategic plan where engineers take a long-term view on a proposal and evaluate
the best outcome for the public. A plan must be clear and realistic whilst meeting the
expectations of all stakeholders.

Page | 2
 T00125101 Essay 1

PR effect as engineers appreciate that there can be pressure to prioritise one project over
another and the population must be kept reasonably content with realistic deliveries.

Industry trends were decisions made by engineers are to be relevant to industry trends with a
long-term view of adding value to society.

Regulatory environment having engineers will liaise with the regulatory bodies and ensure that
quality control systems are in place and being maintained to an acceptable standard.

Accounting and reporting methods used in the industry as engineer’s will deliver a programme
and budget for all concepts, and this will play into the national budget. An example of where
this should have been used is the children’s hospital in Dublin which is set to cost triple the
original forecasted budget.

Key risk identification where engineers in their due diligence will carry out a risk analysis in a
potential deliverable and highlight the issues and make a clear recommendation.

In conclusion I personally believe engineers should play a greater role in running of the country
as engineer’s make clear decision’s having executed their due diligence in areas such as the
areas discussed above. Overall, the inclusion of engineers in government can bring a unique
perspective and skill set that can contribute to the development and implementation of
effective policies, projects and initiatives for everyone’s benefit.

Page | 3