“Don’t expect an optical engineer to design sewer systems.”
Any true engineer, if properly educated and trained, should be able to understand and practically apply concepts (at some basic level) to just about any other engineering discipline.
“Any true engineer, if properly educated and trained, should be able to understand and practically apply concepts (at some basic level) to just about any other engineering discipline.”
Capable, yes, given time and study.
Expect to apply for the job and have a shot at getting it, no.
Way back in the mid-1960's at Ga Tech, we were told, "If and when you guys graduate from Tech, don't think you are engineers. You have been taught enough to understand the language, to have the requisite skills and to learn from those at your first job who will train you to become an engineer."
The education, even from excellent schools, is not enough to make an engineer. Training in a particular field is needed to make a good engineer. An innate mindset is necessary to make a great engineer.
For an enjoyable read and an excellent example of a "great engineer", read Nevil Shute's "Trustee from the Toolroom."