In reply to spannersatcx remarks about us being termed TECHNICIANS by the CAA, will this not bring us in line with the rest of the world, (bar those countries where the British CAA have an input), in that all we are, are certifying technicians. In certain european countries this is what there workers are called, and they are held with greater esteem. An engineer is seen as somebody who has achieved at least a degree in an engineering subject.
I do also agree that the system that is now being implemented, does appear to be downgrading the qualifications required for our job, so it may seem appropriate to also alter our job title.
Following, is the meanings of engineer and technician taken from The Chambers Dictionary so as to make your own mind up as to how we should be titled.
Engineer-someone who designs or makes, or puts to practical use, engines or machinery of any type.
Technician-a person skilled in a practical or mechanical art.
Hopefully all this euro-bureaucracy will not affect the washingmachine engineer or the gas appliance engineer, or the British housewife will not know who she has to telephone in an emergency.
Ingenieur oder Techniker - Wer sorgt?
Rusty Nail