This collection of essays provides key insights into the role of the professional engineer and in particular the nature of professional engineering judgement; what it is, how to get it, how and when to use it. Topics include risk assessment, professional obligations, integrity, competence and professional development.
Also:
• Why Galileo's trial in 1633 is still relevant to engineers today.
• Why risk assessment tools make good servants, but poor masters.
• What to do when the inspector calls.
• The importance of the 'first derivative' of your judgement.
• Why stupid questions are smart!
• Why your professional integrity is your gift to yourself.
• The value of a bar stool to a professional engineer.
Examples are drawn from the author’s experience in the process industries, but the principles exemplified will find application in all the engineering disciplines.