I have just returned from the AHR Expo in Atlanta, and one of the questions I was asked numerous times was, “As a mechanical engineer, why should I get my PE?” This is a question I’ve given a lot of thought, and I think is addressed well in a November 2020 ASME article, “The Path to Professional Licensure.” In a Q&A format, Thomas Constable, Executive Director and CEO of ASME, interviews David Soukup, Managing Director of Governance for the ASME, a PE himself. I actually met Mr. Soukup at the 2013 ASME Congress and Exposition in San Diego and we talked about this very topic.
Mr. Soukup talked about “How” of getting your PE – the three E’s of licensure: Education, Examination, and Experience. In most states, a four year degree from an ABET accredited university is required, though some states allow those without such a degree but with additional experience to be licensed. All states require at least four years of continuous engineering experience, and while some states grant waivers of the FE Exam, all require prospective candidates to pass the PE Exam. Mr. Soukup noted that the FE Exam had already gone to a computer-based format and that the mechanical PE would soon, however as we know the transition of the mechanical PE to CBT started April 1, 2020.
When asked about the benefits of being licensed, Mr. Soukup said that while it would open up career opportunities and be a plus on someone’s resume, and PE’s earn about 10% more over their career than those without a PE, the most important reason to become a PE was that it demonstrated a devotion to protecting the world’s health, safety, and welfare.
I agree that becoming a licenced professionnal engineer is the most important thing someone can do to demonstrate their commitment to the engineering profession. We at DTC are dedicated to helping mechanical engineers become licensed, and when you’re ready, we’ll be here for you. – Dr. Tom
