The article contains an evaluation of the place of technical reality and the role of engineering creativity that acts as its integral component. The place of creativity is represented in different phases of engineering activity; the factors that influence modern manifestations of creative activity in engineering are reviewed. The author proves that engineering activity in the present-day world acquired a number of peculiar features and specific characteristics. Also is substantiated the thesis statement on the involvement of human beings in designed technical systems not only as a subject of activity but as a structural element of designed system as well, i.e. as an object for manipulation. The necessity of understanding engineering practices as socially determined and socially significant is reasoned.