The evolution of engineering management

In an increasingly competitive industry, R&D and Marketing are the twin pivots of success. The abstract nature of R&D and the overwhelming importance of engineering-based industries combine to make the ingredients of the successful R&D engineer both elusive and sought after. In order to increase his effectiveness, the present-day R&D engineer must combine specialized engineering expertise with comprehensive marketing and management capabilities. These traits are particularly difficult to achieve for the average engineer whose very training appears to inhibit balanced growth. But the success of the entrepreneurial trend is witness to those engineers who make the grade.