In the broadest sense, energy generation and consumption are affecting the engineering profession in unprecedented ways. America’s future depends on our will as a nation to stay at the forefront of technology and to become energy independent while preserving our natural environment. The connections between these forces will manifest themselves in many ways and the engineering community will be called upon to spearhead the advancements.
We have already made great strides in reducing energy consumption, expanding the use of renewable energy and conserving precious natural resources as ways to address these issues. This trend is healthy and one that must continue with a great sense of urgency as the impact of energy consumption is felt across the building construction, power generation and transportation industries.