Mech-prentice,
Working as a professional in Aviation, I do my job well because I am proud of what I do , sometimes in spite of management.
I consider that most engineers would be the same, proud and protective of what they do, and their reputation for doing it.
Qantas Engineering has a fantastic reputation. It is that pride that management in many industries have been cashing in on to earn their bonuses. They appreciate that people will put up with a lot of crap to defend their pride,cut staff, reduce wages, under-resource and professionals will continue to try and maintain their reputation, it is what defines them.
It seems to me the point was reached where the engineers decided our goodwill has been abused enough, and decided to push back, and fair enough.
I am sure that if this dispute is resolved fairly then these professionals will go back to doing what they do best, and continue to have pride in their work. It would be fruitless to have this dispute if they didn't.
Go the engineers!!!