Joris Gjata

Scholars of engineering have recently paid attention to how engineers’ mobilization for social change affects professional governance, but there has been little discussion of how engineers’ advocacy for social and environmental justice can shape what it means to be an engineer, do engineering, and define the engineer of the future. This paper relies on the sociology of professions, work, and social movements to critically reflect on how engineers’ social, political or public engagements relate to their work and professional identities. Our analysis suggests that scholars of engineering seek to create the construct of the new engineer—as a responsible, ethical, just or engaged one—focusing mostly in engineering education. In doing so, the dynamic role of practitioners organizing on behalf of the broader social good is relatively neglected. Our sociological analysis of the discourse on justice in engineering can help make visions of the future engineer more tangible by extending the discussion of social justice work to engineers operating outside academic institutions. One practical benefit of this awareness is the potential to link engaged engineering students with socially engaged practitioners, translating what they learn in classrooms to future jobs and careers.