This publication is a summary of 20 papers which examine the status and impact of computers and related technologies on engineering, design practices and production in the private sector, and on engineering curricula and teaching methodology; and their role in assuring social and economic vitality. Chapter 1 discusses how technology impacts the American societal context. Chapter 2 examines the computer as the key to productivity and quality improvements. Chapter 3 considers problems and solutions related to government, examining policy mechanisms and providing two examples of government/industry cooperative efforts (Integrated Programs for Aerospace Vehicle Design and Integrated Programs for Computer-Aided Manufacturing). Chapter 4 examines the role industry has played and continues to play in computer-aided engineering (CAE). Chapter 5 discusses the delivery of engineering through technology, providing a classification of technologies used in education and examining seven areas related to computers (expenditures, hardware trends, availability, computer-assisted-instruction, computer-assisted-testing, simulations, and computer conferencing). Chapter 6 provides examples of engineering education programs at 11 institutions of higher education which use CAE and computer-aided manufacturing. A summary of two surveys on the status of hardware and use of computer graphics in chemical engineering departments is included. Chapter 7 provides a prognosis for the future. (JN)