工业工程师（IE）将科学，数学和工程方法应用于复杂的系统集成和操作。由于这些系统是如此之大和复杂，因此IE需要具有广泛学科的知识和技能，与人合作的能力以及广泛的系统角度。工业工程师利用其知识和技能，通过使用统计分析，人际交流，设计，计划，质量控制，运营管理，计算机模拟和问题解决方法来改善系统流程。工业工程是关于选择的。其他工程学科将技能应用于非常特定的领域。IE为从业人员提供了在各种企业中工作的机会。工业工程学提供了两全其美的方法：工程学和商业教育。
Industrial engineers (IEs) apply science, mathematics, and engineering methods to complex system integration and operations. Because these systems are so large and complex, IEs need to have knowledge and skills in a wide variety of disciplines, the ability to work well with people, and a broad, systems perspective. Industrial engineers use their knowledge and skills to improve systematic processes through the use of statistical analysis, interpersonal communication, design, planning, quality control, operations management, computer simulation, and problem-solving. Industrial engineering is about choices. Other engineering disciplines apply skills to very specific areas. IE gives practitioners the opportunity to work in a variety of businesses. Industrial Engineering offers the best of both worlds: an education in both engineering and business.