“An engineer can explain how a system should work (in theory) but an operator has to know what the engineer knows and then has to know how the systems tie together to get the mission accomplished. If the systems break down the operator must make rapid decisions on fixing or working around the problem to keep the mission moving.”
Gene Kranz — aerospace engineer, fighter pilot, NASA flight director — with timeless wisdom on the difference between engineers and operators, in his 2000 book Failure Is Not An Option. Original photo source NASA.
Wow. Grest insight into the role of operators. I have a new found respect for the guys in my companies’ department.