Mar-Apr 2006 Issue

In this month's issue of The Electrical Engineer, we focus on the future of electrical engineering in the country. Concerned sector from the academe and from the profession have noted the need for updating the current curriculum in our electrical engineering schools. Times have indeed changed and with it no just the technology which is crucial in our field of work, but also in the requirements of a world that is fast changing the rules of the game.

No longer do people stay confined to their specific areas of discipline, they have to have a wider world-view while keeping a solid grasp of the hard knowledge that our engineers can remain at the top of their game, and for our profession to maintain its standing among fellow professionals.

It is an objective we all share as we try and improve ourselves, not just for professional gain but also for the advancement of the entire profession. This is crucial in making the electrical engineer relevant in these fast-changing times. We only have ourselves to depend on if we are to raise the profession to a level of respect and recognition in society, and only ourselves to blame if we become dispensable.

The IIEE itself haims to achieve advancement for the profession through its various projects, among them the magazine that you now hold in your hands. We try and update about the various activities within the organization as well as about opportunities for advancing your knowledge and your professional opportunities.

This knowledge is not confined to technical know-how (although it constitutes a very important part of being an electrical engineer), which we nevertheless provide through technical papers and updates on cutting-edge technology. The electrical engineer also has th have a good grasp of the current issues that affect the way he does his job. The EPIRA, privatization, the struggle of cooperatives, current building codes, economic issues, alternative energy, occupational health concerns. and many other seemingly unrelated topics, affect the engineer on a daily basis.

To perform his duty well, the engineer has to have a deep appreciation of where his contribution fits in the whole scheme of things and be well equipped to deliver what is required of him. We at the Electrical Engineer hope that in our own way help advance the profession in terms of polishing technical skills, and at the same time widen our reader's understanding by presenting the current issues that could impact us all.


Engr. Luzita N. Baccol
Editor-in-Chief, The Electrical Engineer