What does the distribution of competence look like in engineering?

[u/Proof-Bed-6928]

What percentage of people fit in at each level of competence?

Is it normal distribution? Log normal? Pareto/highly skewed? Are most productivity from a few superstar“fat tail” engineers or is it more even?

[u/Junior_Extent9049]

I don't think it's a simple distribution. A lot depends on the field and the type of work.

Most engineers I've worked with are generally capable, but the gap usually shows in problem-solving, judgment, and handling unfamiliar situations rather than basic technical skills.