California Institute of Technology Cal Tech - Big T Yearbook (Pasadena, CA)

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EXGIXEERIXG AND ECONOMICS DEPARTMENT THE Engineering and Ecunomics Department differs from other departments not only in the nature of the work done but in its aims and resuhs obtained. Other departments aim at teaching pure or apphed sciences, thus fitting men primarily for research and development work, or for construction and operation. The aim of the Economics Department is to de ' elop men fit for administrative work. These men are trained in engineering; they have learned to ap])ly scientific methods to problems ; and to think clearly and accurately. The administration of industries requires an alertness and ability to keep up with new methods, for it is a science in itself. This quality is obtained by the atmosphere of research and experiment surrounding the student. Actual observation and criticism of operat- ing industries forms an imjjortant part of the work since it allows the student to apply his classroom knowledge and at the same time is a valualile exercise to develop his jiersonal abilities. T ' or the man whose abilities are not of a strictly engineering type, this de- I)artment will provide training enabling him to become an executive, preferably in an industrial or constructive concern. His acquaintance with the technical side of industry coupled with business training will provide the most efficient equiiimcnt with which to work. That liusiness executives with technical train- ing often hold more responsible jobs with higher salaries than the specialized engineer, is .shown by the organization of large light and power, construction, manufacturing and .similar concerns. Both types of men are required in the efficient carrying on of our complex economic system. The former type is, if anything, rarer, and should have careful training. It is believed that the basis of ' his training .should be science and engineering, instead of wholly commerce as is the case in most courses elsewhere. To Professor Laing belongs most of the credit for the development of this de|iartmcnt. He has created something that is not only of great value to all engineers but is of itself, very interesting and apjireciated by all. The ever in- ceasing number of men taking uj) this phase of engineering is the best proof possible of the real value of the training offered in the business side of engineer- ing. tiiciity-cight

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