This special edition of the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering (NACME) Research Letter focuses on the state of engineering and affirmative action. The argument is made that the underrepresentation of minority groups in engineering fields in the United States jeopardizes the nation's future competitiveness. The consequences of exclusion, declining enrollment in engineering, the growing demand for engineers, the assault on affirmative action, retention in engineering, precollege preparation, and the need for action are discussed in detail. (DDR)