It may have to do simply with the context in which engineers work. Nurses week is popular and recognized, so what is different about nursing and engineering?
According to a quick google search, there are about 2x as many nurses in the US than there are engineers, which could be part of the reason.
But I can't help but think it has something to do with the nature of work either. Anyone who has ever been sick and gone to the doctor or hospital has likely been assisted by one or many nurses. We tend to remember those who help us when we are ill, especially if they have a very warm "bedside manner". There is a human element to nursing that one might argue is absent in a lot of work the public sees via engineering. You could even argue that this is the point of being an engineer: being able to create an environment that the public specifically does NOT need to take special notice of. If you don't notice anything on the street during your commute, or think twice after filling a glass of water or flushing your toilet, or driving over a bridge, then I think it means we are doing our jobs correctly.
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Christopher Seigel P.E., M.ASCE
Civil Engineer
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Original Message:
Sent: 02-22-2022 09:01 AM
From: Daniel Bressler
Subject: Engineers Week...Where's my Donut?
From one engineer to another, Happy Engineer's Week!
It seems that the only people who take note of engineer's week are other engineers (sometimes not even then).
I think Engineer's Week can be a great way for people to learn the importance of current and past Civil Engineers.
It would be nice for the industry to receive some recognition. As a side note, it would also be nice to receive a free donut (like during nurse's week).
Why do you think Engineer's Week isn't more publicized? (or is it and I'm missing out on the action?)
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Daniel Bressler EIT, A.M.ASCE
Structural Engineer
Brooklyn NY
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