Responsible action towards society has become a crucial component of engineering education and training which is evident by several aspects, including but not limited to examining the ethical principles of the Association of German Engineers (Verein Deutscher Ingenieure) or looking at the module handbooks of engineering study programs. Future engineers need to be encouraged to take responsibility not only for the technical functionality of relevant systems but also to recognize potential hazards and act accordingly in the spirit of technology impact assessment. If this responsibility is not taken seriously, there is a potential risk to the individuals using those technical systems. Through three examples of technology scandals, the relevance of the ongoing discussion about the responsibility of engineers becomes evident. Using those scandals, disasters and the developed principles presented, the topic of ‚responsibility‘ for engineers is highlighted within the context of public education and university studies. In the context of responsible action, the importance and potential of technical education are discussed.