Software Engineers vs Engineers

Discussions debate whether software engineers qualify as 'real' engineers like those in traditional fields such as civil or mechanical engineering, often arguing that software work is more akin to coding, programming, or craftsmanship without the rigor or licensing of true engineering.

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Keywords

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Sample Comments

ksec Sep 17, 2019 View on HN

The exact reason why most software engineers aren't really engineers.

globalnode Jul 13, 2024 View on HN

because software developers aren't engineers? -- elephant in the room.

DEADBEEFC0FFEE Nov 3, 2020 View on HN

That the difference between actual engineers and software engineers.

feet Dec 16, 2022 View on HN

Software "engineers" aren't doing any actual engineering, they're software developers and coders

tamimio Sep 16, 2023 View on HN

You should’ve wrote “software” engineering since those only apply to when you program a software, not to mention calling anyone who type a code an engineer is another debatable topic.

Almondsetat Feb 6, 2025 View on HN

And that's why software engineering =/= coding

sjg007 Feb 19, 2020 View on HN

What makes software engineering different?

omginternets Nov 9, 2015 View on HN

Some programmers are engineers. Others aren't. Nobody cares.

extremeMath Sep 2, 2020 View on HN

Software is not Engineering. You guys call your developers Engineers?

nvrGiveUp Dec 25, 2020 View on HN

Software "Engineers" are not Engineers