• Question: What's the most important subject that you use in your work: science, maths or technology?

    Asked by Caitlin J. to Matthew, Neil, Paula, Pete, Philippa on 8 Mar 2015.
    • Photo: Philippa Jefferis

      Philippa Jefferis answered on 8 Mar 2015:

      Applied maths is the key factor of my job. I use maths to calculate whether my designs will be safe and carry the load needed of them. However, engineering requires all three of the subjects you mentioned in order to solve some tricky problems.

      The future of engineering is looking to use them even more. We already have concrete that can repair itself by having a particular bacteria in it. Then there is the use of sensors on structures to allow us to measure their movement and identify sooner when repairs are needed.

    • Photo: Neil Taylor

      Neil Taylor answered on 9 Mar 2015:

      Hi Caitlin!

      This is a really tough question! I think these three ideas are connected to each other in a way – we write science using the language of maths (in the form of equations), and we use the ideas from science to create and improve technology.

      That said, if I had to pick one of these three I would say that my job relies on science the most. The maths behind most of the science I use is generally well understood, and the technology is constantly improving, but knowing HOW and WHEN to use the science is key.

      Great question though – I had to think about this one for a while!

    • Photo: Matthew Gall

      Matthew Gall answered on 9 Mar 2015:

      Great question Caitlin!

      So, in my role specifically, you will find me generally using technology skills, to identify how we can make the internet safer by knowing how it works. However, you may also be surprised to know that a lot of my job also revolves around Maths. Why? Well, part of my role requires the design of applications that are capable of servicing millions of requests every second, and by using Maths, we can ensure that our applications are the most efficient they can be!

    • Photo: Pete Symons

      Pete Symons answered on 11 Mar 2015:

      Hi Caitlin,

      For the work I do i would say it is a little of each but the most important is the technology. To design and manufacturer new military equipment I have to understand the technology (which requires science and maths skills) and what new technologies might exist to potentially offer new solutions to make things safer.
      For example when designing a new radar to add to an aircraft is useful to understand if any newer technologies are available that might be safer (don’t have as much radiating power but still do what they are supposed to do)

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