The Scientific Manpower Shortage and Its Implications for the Engineering Technician

Some of the background of the present scientific manpower shortage is reviewed. Utilization as an important aspect of engineer efficiency is discussed. With this setting, the engineering technician´s complementary function with the engineer is introduced. The limited availability of technicians is cited. A discussion of the stepping-stone aspect of the technician job, an area worth consideration because of its ramifications, is presented and the concept of a four-year program for engineering technicians is shown to have significant value in coping with several phases of technician training. Four areas of study and investigation are suggested that can contribute to solution of the overall need of increased scientific manpower through increased utilization. Utilization would be improved by the proper preparation of an adequate number of engineering technicians.