GET 501 – ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT
WEEK 1
Introduction to Engineering Management
Meaning of Engineering
Engineering is the application of scientific, mathematical, and practical knowledge to design,
develop, and maintain systems, structures, machines, and processes. It encompasses the use
of creativity and technical skills to solve real-world problems, often involving complex
calculations, materials science, and safety considerations. Engineers are responsible for
innovation and e iciency in various fields, including civil, electrical, mechanical, and chemical
engineering, to improve and enhance quality of life.
Meaning of Management
Management is the process of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling resources (such as
people, time, and finances) to achieve specific organizational goals e iciently and e ectively. It
involves setting objectives, making strategic decisions, coordinating activities, and motivating
teams to optimize performance. Managers play a crucial role in ensuring that all elements of a
project or organization work harmoniously towards common objectives.
Definition of Engineering Management
Engineering Management is a specialized field that integrates the application of engineering
principles with the art of management to e ectively lead and manage technical projects and
teams. This field is essential for engineers aiming to take on leadership roles, as it provides
them with the knowledge and skills to oversee complex engineering tasks while ensuring
e icient use of resources, meeting project goals, and achieving organizational success.
Engineering Management is a field that combines technical engineering expertise with
management skills to plan, organize, lead, and control engineering projects and teams. It
focuses on applying management principles to engineering practices, with the aim of achieving
e icient and e ective project execution, optimizing resources, and meeting both technical and
organizational objectives. Engineering managers must understand both the technical aspects of
engineering and the human and organizational elements of management to bridge the gap
between engineering and business.
Uniqueness of Engineering Management
1. Technical and Managerial Expertise: Engineering management requires a unique
combination of technical engineering knowledge and managerial skills, which is not
typically found in traditional management roles. Engineering managers are equipped to
understand and address both technical challenges and organizational dynamics.
2. Integration of Engineering and Business: Engineering management blends engineering
principles with business practices, making it distinct from other fields. It enables
DR. SAMSON O. ODEYEMI 1
GET 501 – ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT
engineers to make strategic decisions based on both technical viability and business
outcomes.
3. Problem-Solving Orientation: Engineering managers are often involved in complex
problem-solving that requires an in-depth understanding of engineering processes and
the ability to make quick, informed decisions that align with both project goals and
company objectives.
4. Project and Resource Management: Engineering management emphasizes the e ective
use of resources, including time, personnel, and materials, to meet the demanding
schedules and technical requirements of engineering projects.
Benefits of Engineering Management to Engineers
1. Career Advancement: Engineering management skills provide engineers with
opportunities for career growth into leadership and executive roles, allowing them to
have a greater impact on projects and organizational direction.
2. Enhanced Decision-Making: With training in management principles, engineers can
make better-informed decisions that consider both technical specifications and
broader organizational goals.
3. Improved Project Outcomes: Engineering management enables engineers to e ectively
plan, execute, and control projects, leading to improved project success rates and
increased client satisfaction.
4. Increased E iciency: By applying management principles to engineering, engineers can
streamline processes, improve productivity, and optimize resource allocation, resulting
in more e icient operations.
5. Leadership Skills Development: Engineering management provides engineers with
essential leadership skills, including communication, conflict resolution, and team
motivation, which are crucial for e ective team management.
6. Broadened Perspective: Engineering management expands an engineer’s perspective
from a purely technical view to include organizational strategy, stakeholder
expectations, and long-term project impact.
In conclusion, Engineering Management is essential for engineers who aspire to lead and
innovate within their fields, as it bridges the technical expertise of engineering with the strategic
insight of management, creating well-rounded professionals capable of driving progress in
engineering and technology.
DR. SAMSON O. ODEYEMI 2
