Posted by Mark Darrah on August 30, 1999 at 22:19:12 in 207.70.75.65:
In Reply to: Re: Titanic Modeling Entusiast Association - An Idea posted by Bob Read on August 30, 1999 at 19:15:34:
Jeez. Lighten up Bob. Used in this context, I don't think it would imply that we all have PHD's. It can have many meanings. I've heard the term "model engineer" describe a person who is a skilled craftsman in the art of model making. No degree is required, and as far as I know, no "real" engineers were offended.
I really don't care if we use that word or not. It was only the first thing I thought of. It just occurred to me that only including the word "model" is not describing the true scope of what we've been doing here. Our work has included research that has little or no use to a modeler, but still has expanded our understanding of the ship. It's one thing to know what something looks like, but quite another to truly understand what said object's purpose is (B deck bulwark object for example).
BTW, I was not implying that there is anything wrong with being a modeler. But to use your argument, I'm sure there are some here who are not engineers NOR modelers, but just hang around out of a general interest in what we are discussing. If we limit the name to just "modelers", we may miss someone who has no interest in building a model, but might still have much to offer. I'd like to draw those people in without having them immediately dismiss us.
Bruce suggested "Titanic Model Research Group". It seems to be a good compromise.
Since there doesn't seem to be any real purpose to this other than having a name to use in correspondence, I don't see that it is a life or death decision. Whatever everyone decides is fine by me.
: Mark:
: I'll have to disagree with you about the use of the title Engineer. I am not an engineer but it is a hard won degree. I know we have engineers on the board and they are probably too gracious to make an issue of it but I think the term Engineer is one that should be earned in an institution of higher learning. I don't think there is anything derogatory associated with being a "hobbyist".
: Many people devote more time and excellence to their hobby than they do their job. I just don't want to use a title I haven't earned.
: Regards,
: Bob Read