to atropois,

First Engineer is about getting recognition about the work you have done and take pride on your design or the technology that you have invented. But remember is not a good pay job, when you consider the hours that you have devoted to solve the problem is more like slavery. In fact, you might ended up working more than a blue collar worker. Also remember most of the time engineer is not paid for over time. Is more on your passion for the job. If you love money more than your job that say good bye to engineering for now.