The professionalization of technical communication

The author examines the professionalization process, the progress of technical communication, and the prospects, and provides some recommendations for further progress. Professionalization is defined the process by which an occupational group seeks to establish itself as a profession. Technical communication is an occupation engaged in this process. Four aspects of the professionalization process are discussed: establishment of a professional association, change of name, development and promulgation of a code of ethics, and prolonged political agitation.<>