Chemical Engineers as Catalysts of Change

Chemical Engineering is a branch of Engineering that covers a vast scope of topics under three major fields namely, Physics, Mathematics - the “anchor” of Engineering, and Chemistry. It usually deals with creating, improving and maintaining processes concerning Chemical and Biological reactions. Its practicality is one of the main reasons why it can contribute to a major societal change. What makes Chemical Engineers catalysts of change?

First of all, everybody can commence a societal change. A notable example is Thomas Edison, whose inventions are still being used in our era. He only had three months of formal schooling. In what way could Chemical Engineers be a catalyst of change? The key advantage, compared to other engineering fields, is that Chemical Engineering itself is like a bridge between Science and its applications, Mathematics and Engineering. Remember that Engineering is more focused on the application of science, such us Physics, where its principles are useful in erecting buildings, building machines and manufacturing gadgets. Chemical Engineers do not just study the application of such fields of science but they also study the very principles of Science, particularly in Chemistry. That is why Chemical Engineers should have more contributions for the improvement of the society. They have an edge compared to other fields of Engineering. Let us make an analogy with the Bible, for it says “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required.” (Luke 12:48) Chemical Engineers are expected to have more contributions to societal change because they learn much more compared to other Engineering subfields.

What are the changes contributed by Chemical Engineers? In the field of engineering alone, Chemical Engineers have many contributions. For example, in the transportation sector, Mechanical Engineers and other Engineers are the ones behind the construction of the vehicle and the roads. The important part is making the vehicle run, and that is where Chemical Engineers come in. They power the vehicle by proving good-quality fuel, which is the primary concern of transportation. Almost all the things we currently benefit from, from medicines to cars to computers, are nothing without the contribution of Chemical Engineers. Drugs, fertilizers, fuels, plastics, preservatives are some contributions of Chemical Engineers for the betterment of society. It does not stop there though, for as long as there are problems in the society, people want changes. Chemical Engineers are catalysts for these changes; they continue to improve our lives. An example is the never-ending quest for cleaner, renewable energy which Chemical Engineers are involved. Until now, they are involved in starting major improvements in energy, mining, agriculture and medicines.

In summary, Chemical Engineers have innumerable contributions to the betterment of the society. They continue to contribute and develop ways to improve our current society. Those who succeed in become a true Chemical Engineer should not be idle, but instead they must use their learned skills to help improve the society by being a catalyst of change, or in a more positive term, improvement.