Engineering Leadership on Capitol Hill

Abstract

The way in which public policy affects the volume and type of work done by engineers is summarized, with attention then given to the dearth of engineering expertise among members of Congress. The work done by legislative staff members is briefly described, and the telling effect that engineers could have at this level is emphasized. The similarities between the work done by an engineer on a legislative staff and the work of an engineer in private practice are highlighted. Finally, the importance of communication skills in influencing public policy is stressed.