Becoming an engineer in industrialising Great Britain circa 1760-1820

This article explores the history of the engineer in Great Britain at a time when the transformation in the infrastructure of the country being brought about by the Industrial Revolution turned the practice of engineering from a trade into a profession. In pursuing the theme of technology transfer, it also sheds light on the trans-national context in which the early engineers acquired their experience and conducted their business. This article draws on research into the Archives of Soho (the Boulton & Watt steam engine partnership) and the technological travel literature of the 'industrial enlightenment'.