The Imperial Sugar Refinery Explosions: When Combustible Dust Became a Catastrophic Fuel
NASA’s Mars Climate Orbiter was lost during Mars orbit insertion after a unit-conversion mismatch between ground software systems caused navigation errors. The failure remains one of engineering’s most important lessons in interface verification, systems communication, and unit consistency.
The June Ethical Dilemma: Informed Conflict of Interest
Was it ethical for Engineer Henry to perform the feasibility study despite the fact that his land may be affected thereby?
June 2026 Pop Quiz for Engineers
This National Safety Month, put your engineering instincts to the test—no incident report required. A quick Pop Quiz for Engineers that proves thinking ahead is always the safest move.
Famous Engineers: Fazlur Rahman Khan
Fazlur Rahman Khan changed the way engineers design tall buildings. Known for pioneering tube structural systems, Khan helped make modern skyscrapers more efficient, economical, and structurally practical, leaving a lasting legacy in civil and structural engineering.
The Mars Climate Orbiter Failure: When a Unit Conversion Destroyed a Spacecraft
NASA’s Mars Climate Orbiter was lost during Mars orbit insertion after a unit-conversion mismatch between ground software systems caused navigation errors. The failure remains one of engineering’s most important lessons in interface verification, systems communication, and unit consistency.
The May Ethical Dilemma: Area of Expertise and Oversight
Was it ethical for Engineer Ted to accept the position of county surveyor?