

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineer
An engineer is a professional practitioner of engineering, concerned with applying scientific knowledge, mathematics, and ingenuity to develop solutions for technical, societal and commercial problems. Engineers design materials, structures, and systems while considering the limitations imposed by practicality, regulation, safety, and cost. The word engineer is derived from the Latin words ingeniare ("to contrive, devise") and ingenium ("cleverness").
The work of engineers forms the link between scientific discoveries and their subsequent applications to human needs and quality of life.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_engineers
Ancestry.co.uk have records of British Civil and Mechanical Engineers between 1829 and 1929 - searchable by name, date and keyword. The records are from the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (formed in 1847) and the Institute of Civil Engineers which was formed in 1818.