<p>I agree. Computers do math; engineers solve problems and figure out what to put into the computer. Computers need to know equations; engineers need to understand where equations come from, how they relate to each other, are they theoretical or empirical. Without this understanding that an engineering education imparts, you can no more engineer than anyone who knows how to read.</p>
<p>As for the rigor, if you can’t understand a few simple thermodynamic relations (it DOES take time, maybe even a repeat of thermo), I don’t want you helping to design the buildings I work in and the bridges I drive on. I understand not every engineer does strictly “engineering work,” but there are many skills engineers develop (problem solving, communication, writing) that are applicable to many professions.</p>