This paper considers the state of the art in the field of mathematical education of engineers and is based on short investigatory visits to institutions in Belgium, Denmark and The Netherlands. Particular emphasis is directed towards the role of the microcomputer and mathematical modelling, as well as to the emerging role of discrete mathematics. Developments in all three areas appear fragmentary and a proposal for closer collaboration is made. Concern is expressed regarding the pressure experienced in some institutions to reduce the curriculum time devoted to mathematics in order to make way for the teaching of some new engineering techniques, which may well become obsolete within a short time. In order to ensure that future engineers possess the fundamental knowledge essential to meet the demands of tomorrow's technology, a request is made for an urgent reappraisal of the position of mathematics in engineering education.