Crisis in Engineering Education

It is contended that engineering education in the United States is and has always been backward and of low quality compared to that in other countries, particularly Russia. Consequent low quality raises serious questions regarding ability to compete with the Communist world. Historical reasons for low quality are scrutinized as created by personality factors, financial matters, university policies, and federal policies. Significant differences between educators and practitioners in science and engineering are discussed. Specific practical proposals for action by federal and university agencies are given which can aid in reducing the serious shortage of welltrained engineers.