Transformative Leadership for Engineering in a Time of Complexity

Abstract

This paper describes the emerging challenges for engineering during times of complex changes. It discusses the sources of these challenges by drawing upon complexity theory as a framework to characterize the changing professional demands for engineers. Sources of complexity are discussed in concrete terms through a review of the author’s career. The paper identifies the challenges engineers face in transforming the profession. It proposes ways engineers can broaden their leadership impacts in public service. Based on these, the paper proposes novel ways of broadening engineers’ education.