In this article (and video above), I talk with Jaime Cunningham, PE, associate bridge engineer at Pennoni, about how becoming a licensed engineer transformed her career. She shares powerful strategies for acing the exam, navigating the process, and elevating her role in the civil engineering world.
Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Jaime:
- What motivated you to pursue the PE exam, and when did you know it was the right time in your career to take it?
- Once you decided to take the PE exam, how did you prepare, and what strategies or resources were most helpful?
- How did you structure your study routine, and why was a review course effective in keeping you on track?
- What challenges did you face during your exam preparation, and how did you manage your time and priorities to overcome them?
- What steps did you take after passing the exam to officially apply for and receive your PE license?
- How did Pennoni support you financially and help you connect with colleagues who had already passed the PE exam?
- Looking back, what do you think was the key factor in your success with passing the PE exam?
- How do you think having a PE license will impact your future career opportunities and growth in engineering?
- What final piece of advice you would give to engineers preparing for or considering the PE exam?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:
- Jaime was motivated to pursue the PE exam after recognizing the importance of understanding the differences between bridges and buildings in structural engineering. She knew it was the right time to take the exam when she realized how critical the license was for advancing her career.
- Taking a review course helps engineers stay organized and focused. It provides structure, and choosing the right discipline for study is crucial, along with dedicating consistent study time each week to stay on track.
- Signing up for the PE exam early gives engineers a clear target to aim for. A daily study routine, combined with regular review sessions and structured materials from a review course, keeps them focused and organized.
- Time management is often the biggest challenge. By planning a study schedule early, incorporating daily sessions, and breaking tasks into manageable parts, engineers can build strong habits and stay on track.
- After passing the PE exam, engineers need to follow a formal application process, which includes submitting work experience, references, and completing any required paperwork with the licensing board.
- Financial support from companies like Pennoni can make a big difference, covering the cost of the exam and review course, allowing engineers to focus on studying. Connecting with colleagues who have already passed the exam is also invaluable for sharing tips and strategies.
- A strong network of colleagues who have taken the exam, along with a diligent study routine, are key factors for success. Sharing knowledge and strategies with coworkers can significantly boost preparation.
- Earning a PE license opens doors to more advanced roles and responsibilities. It allows engineers to work on larger projects, sign off on important designs, and participate in higher-level discussions within the engineering field.
- Engineers preparing for the PE exam should start early and stick to a consistent study schedule. Connecting with others who have passed the exam provides valuable insights and helps maintain motivation.
About Jaime Cunningham, PE
Jaime Cunningham is an associate engineer in Pennoni’s transportation division. Since graduating from the Pennsylvania State University with a bachelor’s in civil engineering, Jaime has gained great experience in the field and earned her PE this past June. Her responsibilities include structure plan design, bridge repair design, quantity estimates and cost estimates assembly, and more. For more information about Pennoni, visit www.pennoni.com.
Sources:
Pennoni
Penn State University
I-95 cap project
NCEES
Connect with Jaime Cunningham, PE, on LinkedIn
This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI
PPI has helped engineers achieve their licensing goals since 1975. Passing the FE and PE exams can open doors to career advancement and new opportunities. Check out PPI’s wide range of prep options, including Live Online courses, OnDemand courses, and digital study tools to help prepare you to pass your licensing exam here.
I hope you found this article helpful. In upcoming articles, I will solve some more PE exam practice problems and answer other questions from our subscribers. Pass the PE Exam videos will publish weekly, so be sure to click the subscribe button so you don’t miss something that could make a substantial difference in your exam result.
Lastly, I encourage you to ask questions in the comments of this video, or on this page and I’ll read and respond to them in future videos. So, if there’s a specific topic you want me to cover or answer, we have you covered.
I’ll see you next week… on Pass the PE Exam
Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success
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