In the specific case cited, yes, but the article is talking about the general case of engineers and social ineptitude. That doesn't need to change any more than we need to stop letting everyone else get away with technical ineptitude.
No, I think the author's point stands. He isn't saying that engineers should all go to cocktail parties and mingle, he's saying specifically that you should be able to not be an asshole.
Personally I'm not great at socializing either, but I make every effort to be polite and courteous when speaking on behalf of the company.
