Technologists

/tekˈnɒlədʒɪsts/ noun

Definition

People who specialize in the application of technology or the study of technological processes. Professionals who design, develop, implement, or manage technological systems and solutions.

Etymology

From Greek techne (art, craft, skill) + logos (study, word) + suffix -ist (one who practices). The term emerged in the 20th century as technology became a distinct professional field requiring specialized knowledge.

Kelly Says

The word 'technologist' distinguishes professionals who focus on practical application from 'technicians' who maintain systems and 'engineers' who design them. This relatively new profession reflects our society's need for specialists who can bridge the gap between technical innovation and real-world implementation.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Technology fields historically excluded women through gatekeeping and bias. 'Technologist' itself is neutral, but the demographic remained ~80% male through 20th century due to educational and hiring barriers.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'technologists' generically; actively acknowledge women technologists by name and contribution when citing expertise.

Empowerment Note

Women technologists like Hedy Lamarr (frequency-hopping patents), Grace Hopper (COBOL), and Hidden Figures mathematicians shaped computing foundations but remain underrecognized. Credit them explicitly.

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