Also others are right about contractors. I see more and more permanent engineering jobs becoming contract positions. I have been doing contract work since 2006. And I see many others doing the same thing, as well as companies using them when needed. Why would TT or anyone else not take the same advantage as many other companies?
Not really. They employ contractors because of less liability and easy to terminate, not because you get a superior pool for engineers to choose from. Today workers are not considered a asset for those wanting to make a quick profit and they want no strings and little liability to be able to loose person and hence contract work is on rise. Not because it makes a better product but rather a cheaper one (cheaper to make not sell) What I have seen is usually C or B rated contractors are in pool and the really good ones, A's, want more than quick contract and smart businesses hang on to them when they get them.
Well if you spent a day in my shoes, you would know I am right. I live it every day. Do you? I field calls from recruiters almost every day. Almost never is it for permanent employment. So I can base what is happening by just being there and observing. I don't need to read some techie blog and regurgitate what some writer thinks.
But you are correct as to some of the reasons. And the use of them for a quick profit is quite true. Funny you don't apply the same thinking to TT and RKR. As far as I know they are a for profit company just like others. Why can't they use that same advantage?
As to your grading of contractors, that is more opinion then fact. You put the wrong contractor on a job, they are going to look bad. That said, there are lousy contractors out there. But I sure don't think you can lump them all together as to talent and ability. Otherwise companies would no longer use them. Using bad contractors would cost to much compared to the benefit they receive. And that effects profits.
Ah well, you have your opinion, I have my reality based on almost 10 years in the contract business, and even more where I was in a permanent position.