I thought this thread was about computer science. Working on a programming project is related to computer science in the same way that welding together a shelf is related to mechanical engineering.
An elitist view disconnected from reality.
Even something like game theory was only developed and earned nobel prizes because of its applications to making money in finance.
Being "handy" around the house (or even more advanced tinkering) and a mechanical engineering degree--maybe especially from a good school--are absolutely not the same thing.