As well as requiring graduates in engineering, the country has need for technicians and there is a long tradition of education in this field in the technical colleges. The importance of well-qualified technicians has become increasingly apparent, and within the last few years the Government has set up an important system of certification, covered by the Technicians' Certification Act of 1958 which established the Technicians' Certification Authority. Amongst its committees this body includes the Executive Committee for Engineering and Draughting, which has taken over the responsibilities of the earlier (1954) Controlling Authority for the New Zealand Certificates in Engineering. It is clear that this development will greatly influence the future of engineering (and science) and should fill an important need.