You are probably on to something with this. But Fe is more than that. Consider that Fe would be a interface between you and the world. Empathy = the Fe-input. But there's also the output, to add to that. The Fe-output is what Fi-valuers often can see as manipulative.
That type of practicality has to do with Si and Se rather than Te.and I worked as a construction worker as a side job while I was a student (don't ask me why - it was well payed....) Still, I guess it's true that Te PoLR makes me relatively clumsy... I have experience, but not natural skill at practical work. I think empathy = Fe, in the same manner practicality = Te. I'd love to hear other arguments.