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At first I thought you said that the engineers had theoretical knowledge, but lacked hands-on know-how.
But then later, you say they should have more theoretical knowledge (in both senses).
I don't understand how that follows from the problem you described at first.

Would have expected more of a "let your techs play with wires during downtime" conclusion. Let them do it, hands-on, and they'll have something to pin their theoretic knowledge on; that'll make them much more dexterous with their work.