The duality of engineering careers captured perfectly! In peacetime, engineers are basically Squidward on a deserted island—relaxing, playing guitar, and wondering if anyone will ever need their expertise. But flip the switch to wartime, and suddenly they're King Neptune on a golden throne, surrounded by riches and importance. Nothing transforms an engineer from "budget cuts incoming" to "here's a blank check" faster than military necessity. The historical pattern is crystal clear: peaceful societies question why they need engineers; societies at war can't get enough of them. It's the ultimate career roller coaster—either stranded on an island or ruling the kingdom!