Aggie Code Of Virtue Analysis

When people think about what it takes to be an engineer they typically think of the technical knowledge and know-how an individual must possess. However, the technical knowhow is not he only quality that makes an engineer special, virtues play a major role and can help engineers flourish. Character traits that are important for engineers to possess are virtues of thought as well as virtues of character. These virtues, or excellences, that an engineer must posses in order to succeed are developed through coursework and experience. Virtue ethics was systematized by Aristotle and focused on what kind of person one should be as well as what is considered a good life. The three key concepts Aristotle focused on were telos, eudaimonia, and arete. …show more content…
Virtues such as phronesis, techne, and episteme have been developed from years of electrical engineering coursework as well as hands on lab experience. These intellectual virtues play a major role in positioning myself for a successful career in the semiconductor industry. While intellectual virtues are important for enabling an engineer to flourish, moral virtues play an equally important role. Some of the moral values I acquired have been obtained through practice and habits developed by following the aggie code of honor. This code states that “An Aggie does not lie, cheat or steal or tolerate those who do.” and by reacting to situations in a way that satisfies this code has allowed me to form habits such as integrity, honesty, and loyalty. While moral virtues like these do have a mean between deficiency and excess, an engineer who possess them would be more inclined to act in an honest and loyal way. Having these virtues will help me be successful in both the professional work I do as well as establishing quality relationships between employers, coworkers, and clients. Other moral virtues developed through my studies at Texas A&M University include self-discipline and perseverance. These virtues like the other moral virtues have been developed through practice. As my college career advanced the difficulty of my courses increased and thus the amount of effort required increased. In order to do well in these upper level classes I had to make some sacrifices in my social life and put in extra hours of work. Striving to perform the best I could in my coursework allowed for the virtues of self-discipline and perseverance to be acquired. I am hoping that these virtues will help the transition from coursework to professional work and allow me to continue striving for excellence once the transition is