The reason engineers become pilots is often for an easier life, I know, that's why I did a CPL. As a licensed engineer I was tired of long hours and hard work and my life ruled by an ever ringing mobile phone. As a pilot you can go home and forget about work and not worry about the company calling you in at 2am even though you have already worked 80 hours that week.
It is very unfair that captains are paid more than engineers, as I know from personal experience that it is far harder to gain an engineering licence than a pilot licence.
The ATPL was a breeze compared to the engineering licences I hold.