History: four generations of electrical engineers

The field of electrical engineering is slightly more than 100 years old. During this time period, the profession has experienced great changes, in both its technology and practice. This article explores some of those changes from the perspective of one family of engineers who lived through most of this history, the Harder family. Their circumstances illustrate how day-to-day engineering activities have changed during the last century, but also show how, in many ways, human conditions remain very much the same in spite of these changes. It is training that allows engineers to contribute to the good of mankind. How to obtain the requisite training is a continuing question. What portion should come from professional school and what part can be obtained as on-the-job training? Where do engineering graduates obtain the on-the-job portion of their training? Each generation must answer these questions for themselves as circumstances change