<p>I would tend to agree with the others who posted. Self-employment for engineers is probably more difficult than say for doctors, lawyers or Chartered Accountants (Canada)/CPA (US). </p>
<p>In Canada, it is very easy for a GP to set up shop. The government pays for the visits and the MD’s have essentially limitless patients. A great many lawyers have their own solo practise as do accountants. </p>
<p>For engineers, it usually involves some type of entrepeneurship. However, the US is an excellent place to start due to the access to Venture Capital for new business. And certainly, there are many models (MS, apple, Y!, google) that have become strong and succesful businesses. </p>
<p>Actually, this issue is why I switched from chemical engineering to law. Too many of my colleagues were laid off and did not find work in engineering again. I am planning on launching my own practise shortly.</p>