In medicine, law, or electrical work, professional titles are protected. You can’t call yourself a doctor or master electrician without meeting specific, rigorous standards—and for good reason. These titles carry public trust and responsibility.
In tech, especially in software and AI, “Engineer” is used much more loosely.
It’s not uncommon to see people with no formal technical background holding “engineering” roles—sometimes alongside those with deep training in computer science, electrical engineering, or applied math.
This raises important—not gatekeeping—questions: What does it mean to uphold standards in a fast-moving field? Are we losing clarity when titles aren’t anchored in shared expectations? How do we protect the integrity of work that increasingly affects infrastructure, healthcare, finance, and public safety?
In Canada, for example, “Engineer” is a legally protected title. Only licensed professionals can use it. That model reinforces the idea that engineering isn’t just a job—it’s a designation built on accountability.
This isn’t about shutting people out. It’s about getting clearer on what different roles mean—especially as systems become more complex and consequences more serious.
So:
Should “Engineer” carry a formal meaning in tech?
How can we balance inclusivity and technical rigor?
It’s something worth reflecting on—especially as our industry continues to evolve.
About the Author
Sami Joueidi holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering and brings over 15 years of experience leading AI-driven transformations across startups and enterprises. A seasoned technology leader, Sami has led customer adoption programs, cross-functional engineering teams, and go-to-market strategies that deliver real business impact.
He’s passionate about turning complex ideas into practical solutions, and about helping teams bridge the gap between innovation and execution. Whether architecting scalable systems or demystifying AI concepts, Sami brings a blend of strategic thinking and hands-on problem-solving to every challenge.
© Sami Joueidi and www.cafesami.com, 2025.
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