Meaning of "colleague"

[Tan Elaine]

While a colleague can technically be any coworker in any occupation, this word is normally reserved for doctors, academics, researchers and scientists.

The above is from an English work usage book.

I have been taught that my colleague is someone who works in the same place of work as me.

Do native speakers share the view of the writer?

Thanks.

 

[GoesStation]

I don't restrict "colleague" to the listed categories.

 

[Tarheel]

I would say GS is a colleague (Ems too!), but we certainly don't work at the same place.