Meaning: This quote is attributed to Rube Goldberg, the famous cartoonist known for his humorous and elaborate illustrations depicting overly complicated machines designed to perform simple tasks. While Goldberg is best known for his cartoons, he also had a keen wit and insight into various aspects of life, including education and the pursuit of knowledge.

In this quote, Goldberg humorously reflects on his experience in the military, where he states, "I didn't write because in the corps I took mining engineering of all things and, you know, they, they graduate a mining engineer as a sort of an illiterate." This statement sheds light on the perception of mining engineering in the context of academic and intellectual pursuits.

Goldberg's choice of mining engineering as his field of study in the military is somewhat unexpected, given his later career as a cartoonist. However, his remark about the education he received as a mining engineer provides a glimpse into the challenges and stereotypes associated with certain academic disciplines, particularly in the military setting.

The quote suggests that the education and training received as a mining engineer in the military may not have been as intellectually enriching or conducive to writing or creative expression as one might expect from a traditional academic program. Goldberg's use of the term "illiterate" to describe the graduation outcome for mining engineers is undoubtedly hyperbolic, but it effectively conveys the notion that the focus of the program may have been more technical and practical, rather than fostering literacy or creative expression.

It's important to note that Goldberg's comment should be taken in the context of his characteristic humor and wit. While he may be making a lighthearted jab at the nature of his military education, it's unlikely that he intended to disparage the field of mining engineering or its practitioners. Instead, his words offer a playful critique of the limitations or shortcomings he perceived in the educational experience he underwent during his time in the military.

Mining engineering is a specialized field that encompasses the study of extracting and processing minerals from the earth. It involves a blend of technical, scientific, and practical knowledge related to geology, mining methods, mineral processing, and environmental considerations. The curriculum for mining engineering programs typically includes coursework in subjects such as geology, mine design, rock mechanics, mineral processing, and mine safety.

While the technical skills and knowledge acquired in a mining engineering program are undoubtedly valuable for careers in the mining industry, Goldberg's quote highlights the potential disconnect between the practical focus of such programs and the broader development of literacy, communication, and creative expression. It's worth considering the possibility that the military's emphasis on practical skills and operational readiness may have influenced the nature of the education provided to mining engineering students, as suggested by Goldberg's humorous observation.

Goldberg's own trajectory as a cartoonist and humorist demonstrates that individuals can find success and fulfillment in unexpected places, regardless of the educational background or stereotypes associated with certain fields of study. His comment about his experience as a mining engineering student in the military serves as a reminder to challenge assumptions about the relationship between education, creativity, and professional pursuits. It encourages reflection on the diverse paths that individuals may take in their academic and professional journeys, as well as the potential for unconventional educational experiences to shape unique perspectives and talents.

In conclusion, Rube Goldberg's quote about his experience as a mining engineering student in the military offers a playful yet thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of education, creativity, and practical skills. While his remark may be lighthearted, it prompts consideration of the diverse ways in which individuals navigate their educational and professional development, as well as the potential for unexpected influences to shape their perspectives and pursuits. Goldberg's wit and insight continue to resonate, reminding us to embrace the richness of varied educational experiences and the creative potential that can emerge from unconventional paths.