Having a PE license is by no means the definition of being an engineer. And if it was it would be a very narrow one. I work at an aerospace company, most of my peers with advanced degrees in mechanical, aerospace and electrical don't hold a PE and don't need it. Are those not engineers? I have a degree in aerospace by currently write software exclusively, am I not an engineer either?

Specific to the US

No, we're not "professional engineers," which means we cannot testify in court as an expert in our field, and have limitations for what we can consult on based on the licensing requirements of your state.

However, the title of "engineer" can be conferred upon an individual by an employer, during the term of their employment.

Sorry, but the NSPE has no say on the definition of what an "engineer" is or isn't.

I mean, they say so as much:

> "What makes a PE different from an engineer?"

They're talking about a specific type of certification, not what an engineer is or isn't.

I think there is a flaw in your logic here. You are saying "you can achieve high proficiency rather quickly", but at the same time you are saying that "it's market and it's what it is". Since it's a market - it means there is a high demand in those "JavaScript engineers", and if it's so easy to become proficient then what prevents those "engineers who optimize compilers" to become proficient in JavaScript and compete in that market? Maybe it's not that easy to become somebody who can manage to bring enough value by "just" being a "JavaScript engeneer" for whom employees can pay 100k+ wages?