Blog

PE 095: The PE Advantage: A CEO’s Blueprint to Professional Growth

March 5, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Doug Shatto, PE, PTOE, the president and CEO of Lochmueller Group, about how the PE license can help someone in their career and how a consulting firm can promote and support professional growth in achieving the PE license.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Doug:

How has the professional engineering license benefited your professional growth throughout your career?
How do you at Lochmueller Group promote and support your professionals in pursuing the PE License?
How do incentives for getting a PE license motivate young professionals and impact their long-term career opportunities?
Do you think promoting technical career paths and tying licensure to them is crucial in challenging the misconception that success is tied to managerial roles in our industry?
Considering the long-term, how does having a license impact future opportunities, like consulting or career changes?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

5 Essential Tips for Passing the FE Exam

February 28, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I share 5 key tips for passing the FE exam. From setting a clear exam date to overcoming exam challenges, these tips will streamline your FE Exam preparation. Whether you’re starting or refining your strategy, these tips are your pathway to success.

1. Establish a Robust Schedule

Kickstart your preparation by setting a clear exam date. Utilize calendars, notepads, and reminders for organizational clarity. Given life’s complexities, developing a personalized system is pivotal for sustained focus.

2. Prioritize Rest and Breaks

Bid farewell to cramming. Embrace the significance of intervals and ample rest during your study sessions. Optimal retention stems from spaced-out learning. Avoid last-minute cramming sessions as they seldom yield positive outcomes.

3. Cultivate Accountability Partnerships

Tap into the strength of collective motivation by forming study partnerships. Creating study groups with disciplined peers sharing common goals enhances the quality of learning. The adage “two heads are better than one” holds true in this context.

4. Develop a Tailored Study System

Identify your preferred learning method. Whether dedicating a week to a single topic or utilizing various study materials like practice tests, flashcards, or videos, customize your study system to align with your learning style.

5. Extend Grace to Yourself

Acknowledge the formidable nature of the FE exam. Set pragmatic limits and grant yourself grace throughout the preparation process. Recognize that each journey is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach is impractical. Learn from others but craft a study plan that harmonizes with your capabilities.

About Matthew Douglas

Matthew currently serves as the operations leader for the Engineering Management Institute. As a leader, Matthew’s goal is to ensure the efficacy and efficiency of the Learning and Development group. As a civil engineer by trade, Matthew has developed a passion for construction and stormwater management by way of maintenance and rehabilitation services. Matthew has also had experience working for private consulting firms and public agencies and has even held the role of an educator. As such, he loves to lead, build, mentor, and help those in need.

Most recently, during his time working for the public sector, Matthew took on the role of a public works operations manager. There he led quite a few public infrastructure rehabilitation projects and implemented new asset management technologies at a very young age. It is here that the passion for “fixing what’s broken” developed. He now uses his talents to lead EMI’s Learning and Development – Operational procedures, train engineers, and co-host podcasts.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI, A Kaplan Company:

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.

In upcoming articles, I will answer more FE Exam questions and run through more practice problems. We publish videos bi-weekly on our Pass the FE Exam YouTube Channel. Be sure to visit our page here and click the subscribe button as you’ll get expert tips and tricks – to ensure the best success – that you can’t get anywhere else. Believe me, you won’t want to miss a single video.

Lastly, I encourage you to ask questions in the comments of the videos or here 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.

Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

Last-Minute Checklist for the PE Exam

February 20, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I discuss something significant for those who are gearing up to take the PE Exam soon by walking through a last-minute checklist for the PE Exam to ensure you’re completely prepared for exam day.

1 – Essential Documents

First up, let’s talk about the non-negotiables: your documents. You absolutely need to have your NCEES Examinee Letter. Make sure it’s printed out and that your examinee ID number is correct. Equally important is your photo ID. Remember, it has to be government-issued, like a driver’s license or a passport. Student IDs won’t make the cut here.

2 – Calculator and Writing Tools

Moving on to the tools of the trade – your calculator and writing instruments. It’s vital to have an NCEES-approved calculator. Whether it’s from Hewlett Packard, Casio, or Texas Instruments, make sure it’s a model that’s allowed. We have another video focusing on just that – the allowed calculators. And don’t forget to pack a spare battery. For writing, a couple of sharpened mechanical pencils should be in your arsenal. Choose ones with 0.7mm lead for the best writing clarity.

3 – Personal Comfort Items

Let’s talk about personal items. While there are strict rules about what you can bring, there are a few things you’re allowed for your comfort and convenience. This includes your eyeglasses – but leave the case at home. You can also bring a sweater or jacket, and yes, even earplugs are permitted. These small comforts can make a big difference in your exam experience.

4 – Some Optional But Helpful Items

Now, onto some optional but helpful items. A highlighter can be a lifesaver for marking important information quickly. A clear plastic ruler can come in handy for diagrams and figures. And if you have a formula booklet or specific reference books that are permitted, definitely bring them along.

5 – Day Before Preparation

As for the day before the exam, it’s all about planning and organization. Check your route to the exam center and plan your travel with extra time for any unexpected delays. Pack your bag with snacks, water, and all your exam essentials. And, of course, double-check the exam date and time to avoid any last-minute panic.

And that’s it! Your critical item checklist for the PE Exam. With these tips, you’ll walk into the exam room feeling prepared and confident.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

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.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

Cracking Truss Forces: Mastering Method of Joints

February 14, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), we calculate the internal forces of trusses using the method of joints. This is a classic example that you might encounter in the static section of the FE Exam. This problem was created and solved by Mechatronical engineer, Chanté van der Spuy.

Question:

Consider the truss shown below. It is subjected to a horizontal load of 5 kN at joint D and a vertical load of 5 kN at joint C. The horizontal and vertical reaction forces at joint A are given as 2 kN and 4 kN, respectively. Determine the force in member BD.

Achieving Career Heights with a PE License

February 6, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Kerryn Fulton, P.E., the esteemed President and CEO of C.S. Davidson, Inc. about the critical importance of obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license and the myriad benefits that licensure can unlock for you.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Kerryn:

How has obtaining your Professional Engineer (PE) license contributed to your professional growth as an engineer and your development as a leader?
When you invest time in getting and keeping your Professional Engineer (P.E.) license, how does it pay off, especially when evaluating team members and young leaders?
Why do you believe obtaining a professional engineering license is a significant career differentiator, considering the rigorous process involved, potential legal limitations, and the importance of future flexibility in one’s career?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Obtaining a Professional Engineer (P.E.) license is a major career achievement, bringing authority, respect, and legitimacy to your role. It signifies expertise and completion of essential steps in becoming a licensed professional, establishing a strong foundation for professional growth and recognition.
Getting your PE isn’t just about credibility; it boosts your pay, opens doors for better compensation, and enhances your marketability for diverse career paths in the field.
For younger individuals, it makes sense to keep all avenues open for the future, as you never know where life may lead. Setting oneself up for long-term success is crucial, and maintaining flexibility in career choices is a wise approach.

About: Kerryn Fulton, P.E.

Kerryn started her career path after graduating from Juniata High School and earning her engineering degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1996. Married to Wade, a talented teacher and writer, they have two sons, Thomas and Theo.

In 2001, Kerryn joined C.S. Davidson, an employee-owned engineering firm established in 1923. The company has offices in York, Gettysburg, and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Over the years, she climbed the ladder, becoming Chief Operating Officer in 2013 and ultimately reaching the top spot as CEO in 2016.

Sources:

C.S. Davidson, Inc.
Connect with Kerryn Fulton, P.E., on LinkedIn

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

I’ll see you next week… on Pass the PE Exam

Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

Mastering the FE Exam: A Guide to the Computer-Based Testing Environment

January 31, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I discuss a crucial question that a listener recently posed about the FE exam: “Is there a way to see a video of the actual computer-based testing environment, especially focusing on how it looks on the screen, and how to navigate between the test and the reference manual?”

Great question! If you’re gearing up for the Fundamentals of Engineering (or FE) exam and wondering about the computer-based testing environment, you’re in luck. The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) has you covered with a detailed video tutorial. The tutorial is a fantastic resource for anyone wanting to get a real feel of the test interface.

This article will cover:

An overview of the FE Exam Testing Centers and Registration
Exam Format and Question Types
How to use the Keyboard hotkeys and the on-screen calculator during your exam
How to flag items for review
How to use the onscreen line tool
How to save and submit your work

FE Exam Overview

The FE exam is a critical milestone for aspiring engineers. It’s designed for recent graduates or students near the completion of their undergraduate engineering degree. The exam includes 110 questions, with a total duration of 6 hours, including various segments like a nondisclosure agreement, a tutorial phase, the main exam, and a scheduled break.

Testing Centers and Registration

The exam is administered at Pearson Professional Centers, known for their high-security standards and professional setting. Registration for the exam is online, with several testing windows available throughout the year.

Exam Format and Question Types

CBT or computer-based testing include traditional multiple-choice questions as well as alternative item types (or AITs). AITs provide opportunities to assess the technical knowledge of examinees using methods not available through pencil-and-paper testing.

All questions, including AITs, are scored as either correct or incorrect. There is no partial credit. AITs include but are not limited to the following:

Multiple correct – allow examinees to select multiple answers
Point and click – require examinees to click on part of a graphic to answer
Drag and drop – require examinees to click on and drag items to match, sort, rank, or label
Fill in the blank – provide a space for examinees to enter a response to the question

Examinees taking a computer-based, NCEES exam may see up to five types of questions on their exam. The question types include traditional multiple choice questions that feature four answer options from which to choose one correct answer. Multiple choice questions with multiple correct options feature more than four answer options from which to choose and allow for multiple answer options to be selected. Point and click questions require you to select one or more predetermined clickable areas that become visible when you move your over the graphic. Drag and drop questions require you to click and drag answer options to sort, rank, match or label a provided graphic. Fill in the blank questions require you to enter your response instead of choosing it from a list of answer options.

How to Use the Keyboard Hotkeys During Your Exam

Keyboard hotkeys give you shortcuts to common exam functions. For example, Alt N will go to the next question. Alt P will go to the previous question. Alt F will flag the question for review. The underlying letter and the on-screen function can identify exam hotkeys.

An on-screen calculator is also provided for your use. Digital version calculator of the ti-30xs is located in the top left corner of your exam if you need it.

If you wish to review questions later, simply click the flag in the top right corner or use the Alt F hotkey. At the end of each section you have the review screen section that shows all flags and incomplete questions. Each question in the review screen has a link back to the original question in the exam. You must complete the review before time expires

How to Flag Items for Review

Reference materials for the NCEES exam include a line tool to aid in reading charts and graphs. To use it, select the line tool icon at the top left of the reference window. Click and hold the mouse button to drag a line across the screen when you release the mouse button, the line will become solid and remain at that location and the reference material until you delete it. You can create multiple lines on the same chart. To remove lines you don’t need, press ctrl Z on your keyboard. You can remove up to ten previous created lines.

How to Use the Onscreen Line Tool

There is a split screen that features the exam questions on one side and reference handbook on the other. The handbook is a searchable PDF that allows examinees to quickly find terms and sections. Make sure you use the apostrophes and hyphens. The word also has to be spelled correctly to see the result. The handbook also has convenient links to jump to each section easily.

Saving your work:

Auto-save: Some CBT systems autosave your progress as you answer questions. This ensures that your work is not lost if you have to interrupt your test.
Manual save: If autosave is not enabled, you may have a “Save Progress” button or option. Click on this button to save your work periodically.
Resume testing option: If you need to stop the test and come back later, use the “Resume Test” or “Continue Test” button to access your saved progress.

Submitting your exam:

Once you have completed all the questions in the exam, carefully review your answers to make any necessary changes.
Locate the “Submit Exam” or “Finish Exam” button. This button will typically appear at the end of the exam or when you have completed all the required questions.
Click on the “Submit Exam” or “Finish Exam” button. Once you submit your exam, your answers will be recorded and your performance will be evaluated.
You may receive immediate feedback on your performance or be notified when the results are available.

For more information on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) computer-based Exam, you can watch the video tutorials at the link shown on the screen.

NCEES FE EXAM VIDEO TUTORIALS.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI, A Kaplan Company:

I’ll see you next week.

Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

A 3-Month Study Plan to Ace the PE Exam

January 23, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk about a detailed 3-month study schedule that we’ve crafted for those preparing for the PE Exam. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refine your approach, this guide is your roadmap to success.

This is not just a study plan; it’s a blueprint for success, designed to boost your confidence and readiness for the PE Exam.

Aim to invest between 80 to 100 hours over 12 weeks. The plan predominantly focuses on weekend studies, which allows you to maintain a steady pace without burning out. Throughout the week, engage in smaller, manageable tasks to keep your momentum going and your mind actively engaged with the material. Let’s break down this journey week by week.

Weeks 1-4: Breadth Exam Focus

The first month is all about getting a broad overview. Kick things off with an initial NCEES practice exam. This step is crucial as it helps you pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses right out of the gate, and create a baseline. Allocate 4 hours on a Saturday for taking the exam, and then dedicate another 4 hours on Sunday to meticulously assess your performance and plan ahead. Categorize the breadth subjects into tiers based on your proficiency, allowing you to tailor your study focus more effectively. Then over the next 4 weeks prepare for the breadth section based on your needs.

Weeks 5-10: Depth Exam Focus

Now, we shift gears to concentrate on the depth portion of the exam. This phase mirrors the first month’s approach: start with a depth practice exam to assess your understanding of more specialized topics. The weekends during this period should be dedicated to intensive study sessions, targeting specific depth subjects. Again, categorize these topics into tiers to methodically improve upon each area.

Weeks 11-12: Practice Exam Focus and Ramp Down

As you approach the final stretch, it’s time to put your knowledge and skills to the test. Take full-length practice exams under conditions that mimic the actual test environment. This not only builds up your test-taking stamina but also solidifies your accumulated knowledge. In the final weekend leading up to the exam, prioritize rest and relaxation, and ensure all your test day materials are prepared. This phase is as much about mental preparation as it is about academic readiness.

General Strategy and Tips

A consistent theme in this journey is the philosophy that practice makes perfect. Focus on solving as many timed problems as possible. Equally important is the balance between reinforcing areas where you’re strong and improving upon the weaker ones. Don’t hesitate to use all available resources at your disposal, including tutorial videos and practice problem sets. These tools are designed to enhance your learning experience and prepare you thoroughly for the exam.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive 3-month study plan to ace the PE Exam. Remember, the key to success is not just in following the plan but also in adapting it to fit your personal learning style and life schedule. Stay disciplined, stay motivated, and let’s conquer this exam together.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

I’ll see you next week… on Pass the PE Exam

Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

How to Minimize Distractions While Studying for the FE Exam

January 17, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I discuss 10 actions you can take to decrease distractions while studying for the FE Exam.

Let’s start with a scenario many of us know too well. You sit down to study, but within minutes, digital distractions pull you away. Your phone starts beeping or buzzing, and before you know it, precious study time is lost. So, how do we avoid this? Let’s delve into some effective strategies.

1. Eliminate Digital Distractions

It’s essential to switch your phone into airplane mode and turn off ALL notifications. Using website blockers or productivity apps can also block distractions on your computer. Remember, a disconnected smartphone means a connected mind.

2. Set Realistic Study Goals and Break Down Tasks

This is another vital step. Use a timer to limit your study sessions and focus intensely for shorter periods. This method helps in reducing the urge to procrastinate and keeps distractions at bay.

3. Employing Effective Study Techniques

Techniques like practice problems, flashcards, and teaching concepts to others not only aid in better retention but also keep your study sessions engaging and dynamic. Also, if you are doing practice problems or a practice exam, do them in a timed atmosphere similar to the one you will experience on exam day. You must recreate exam-like conditions as often as possible.

4. Seek Support From Peers or Study Groups

This action can be incredibly beneficial. Discussing concepts, sharing resources, and holding each other accountable makes the study process more collaborative and less isolating.

5. Incorporate Short Breaks and Physical Activity Into Your Study Time

Short breaks rejuvenate your mind and enhance memory retention. Incorporate activities like walking, stretching, or even a quick social media check during these breaks.

6. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle During Your Exam Preparation Months

Of course, this one is important to do throughout life, but eating brain-boosting foods and staying hydrated can significantly improve your focus and cognitive abilities during studying.

7. Find an Ideal Study Spot That Suits Your Learning Style

Whether it’s a quiet corner or a lively café, the right environment can make a significant difference.

8. Wear Noise-Canceling Headphones

For those who find external noises distracting, this can be a game-changer.

9. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Taking this step can greatly enhance your concentration and overall well-being. Techniques like mindful breathing, body scan meditation, or yoga can help center your focus and reduce stress. I like the Waking Up App by Sam Harriss for guided meditations but there are also many free apps out there.

10. Reward Yourself for Achievements

Celebrating small milestones keeps you motivated and acknowledges the hard work you’ve put in.

To wrap up, these strategies are not just about reducing distractions; they’re about optimizing your study sessions to achieve the best possible results in your FE Exam. Implement these tips, and you’ll find yourself studying more efficiently and effectively.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI, A Kaplan Company:

I’ll see you next week.

Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

Top 5 Mistakes To Avoid in PE Exam Preparations

January 9, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk how you can identify and avoid the top five mistakes that can hinder your ability to Pass the PE exam. Whether you’re gearing up for your first attempt or looking to improve upon a previous effort, these insights are tailored to boost your exam strategy.

1. Time Management Miscues

The PE exam is quite a challenge against time. You’re given 8 hours to tackle 80 questions. This breaks down to roughly 6 minutes per question. The strategy here is crucial: don’t get bogged down on a single question. If you find yourself stuck, it’s wise to move on and revisit it later. You can flag problems that you skip so you can easily come back to them later. One practical tip I recommend is bringing a stopwatch or wristwatch to the exam. This simple tool can be a lifesaver in helping you monitor your time.

2. Underestimating the Power of Sleep

It’s tempting to cram all the information you can the night before the exam, but this approach can be counterproductive. A good night’s sleep is invaluable. Lack of sleep can impair your judgment and diminish your focus, and critical faculties that you absolutely need during the exam. Aim for about 7-8 hours of sleep the night before the exam. A light review before bedtime can be helpful for memory retention, but remember, it’s just as important not to overdo it.

3. Overconfidence

Remember, no matter how well you performed academically in the past, the PE exam presents a unique set of challenges. It’s a mistake to assume you can pass without thorough preparation. Taking a comprehensive review course that covers all exam topics is an excellent strategy. They refresh your memory on what you already know and strengthen your grasp on areas you’re less familiar with.

4. Not Studying in a Timed Atmosphere

Many exam takers do tons of practice problems prior to the PE Exam (and you should), but they don’t do them in a timed, pressure-filled atmosphere which mimics the actual exam. You must do this! There is nothing like the pressure of going up against time, so you must prepare for it.

5. Calculator Familiarity

This might seem minor, but it’s incredibly important. Make sure the calculator you bring is approved by the NCEES. Familiarize yourself with it well before exam day. If you’re using a new model, spend time practicing with it. There are many free tutorials available that can help you get up to speed.

Bonus Tip: Reading and Following Instructions

This might sound obvious, but under exam pressure, it’s easy to skim over instructions. Misinterpreting a question can cost valuable points. Take the time to read each question carefully, understand it thoroughly, and then proceed with your answer. By steering clear of these common pitfalls, you’ll be well on your way to passing the PE exam. Remember, it’s not just about hard work, but smart work. Stay calm, stay focused, and trust in your preparation.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

I’ll see you next week… on Pass the PE Exam

Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

Understanding the FE Exam Scoring Process

January 3, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I explain the mysteries behind the FE exam scoring process and share some invaluable tips to help you pass the FE exam.

1. A Scaled Scoring System

Let me begin by shedding some light on the distinctive FE exam scoring process. What sets this exam apart is its a scaled scoring system, which only considers correct answers. This scaling accounts for varying difficulty levels across different exam versions, ensuring a fair assessment for all candidates. This also means that you should NEVER LEAVE A QUESTION BLANK. Only correct answers help you, but wrong answers don’t hurt you, so at a minimum, just guess the ones you didn’t answer before the end of the exam.

2. The Essence of Psychometric Methods

The FE exam encompasses various question types, each aimed at assessing different skills. These include aptitude, quantitative reasoning, mechanical and logical reasoning, and inductive reasoning questions. Understanding these different types of questions can significantly aid in your preparation.

3. Understanding the Fluctuating Pass Rates

Exam pass rates are a crucial aspect to understand. In 2023, for example, rates varied from 51% to 69% across different engineering disciplines. It’s important to recognize that these rates are dynamic and do not necessarily indicate the difficulty level of each discipline.

4. Your FE Exam Results

Post-exam, candidates receive a straightforward pass or fail outcome. For those who don’t pass, a diagnostic report is provided, which is a valuable tool for identifying areas of improvement for future attempts.

5. The Diagnostic Report

The diagnostic report is an essential resource for re-takers. It details your performance in each subject, allowing you to pinpoint where you need to focus your study efforts.

6. The Passing Score

Aiming for the passing score, typically around 70%, requires an understanding that this figure is subject to change. The focus should be on comprehensive preparation rather than on the fluctuating passing score. In other words, focus on preparing and doing lots of practice problems NOT trying to get a 70.

In closing, don’t be intimidated by the statistical aspects of the FE exam. Whether it’s your first attempt or a subsequent one, the key lies in diligent practice and thorough understanding of the NCEES® reference guidebook.

Remember, while the exam is challenging, it’s far from impossible. Use the resources provided by NCEES® effectively, and focus on your weak areas for a better chance at success.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI, A Kaplan Company:

I’ll see you next week.

Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success