Engineering: Dreams, or Self-Actualization?

What sparked the notion that the reporter might be an engineer? It began while they were employed at a previous job. Upon noticing their name listed under the "Engineering Team," a realization dawned on them. This unexpected label ignited a profound question: "Am I an engineer?" The title of "Engineering Team" was bestowed upon them without any prior knowledge or explanation.

It felt like a significant honor, a label they were unwilling to question. The reporter had earned their previous title through years of manual labor, enduring freezing temperatures and the physical strain of terminating cables outdoors. They were content with this role, having gained valuable experience in the tech industry. Although their background was rooted in art and nutrition, the reporter's curiosity about engineering persisted.

In Canada and the USA, the term "software engineer" is often used loosely, leading to humorous memes. Yet, the reporter questioned the weight and meaning behind such titles. They had spent years learning in various fields, but still felt inadequate in their knowledge. The reporter believed that life was an ongoing journey of learning, with each breath serving as a reminder that anything was possible.

Their quest for self-discovery continued, fueled by an insatiable curiosity and the desire to question the status quo. Despite the uncertainty surrounding their identity, the reporter remained unshakable in their determination to seek out answers and embrace new challenges. The pursuit of knowledge remained a constant, driving them forward in their quest to determine if they truly were an engineer or perhaps something even more philosophical.