Blog Posts

Proven Scientific Study Techniques to Pass the PE Exam

June 11, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), we’re diving deep into methods that aren’t just effective, but scientifically proven to enhance your learning. Whether you’re a first-time taker or looking to improve from a previous attempt, these scientific study techniques will be your key to success.

Let’s start with the 4 different scientific study techniques for retaining information as you study and then at the end I will show you how to use all four together to Pass the PE Exam.

Spaced Repetition

Spaced repetition is a technique that is fundamental to effective learning. The core idea is to break your study content into smaller, manageable segments and review them at increasing intervals. This technique leverages the psychological spacing effect, ensuring longer-term retention of information. Imagine planting seeds of knowledge and watering them regularly to see them grow over time. This gradual process allows your brain to absorb and consolidate information more effectively than cramming.
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FE Exam Process Simplified for Foreign Engineers

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

In this article (and video above), I talk with Oscar Gutierrez A.M ASCE, a dedicated Civil Engineer specializing in Structural Engineering, about the process of obtaining NCEES approval for foreign engineers seeking entry into the US and explore how these ties into the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Oscar:

Can you tell us a bit more about yourself, and what field of engineering you are in?
Can you walk us through the steps that foreign engineers need to take in order to obtain NCEES approval?
How does NCEES approval tie into the FE Exam? Is the FE Exam the only requirement?
Are there any specific requirements or considerations for foreign engineers taking the FE Exam compared to US graduates?
In your opinion, how can passing the FE Exam benefit a foreign engineer seeking NCEES approval?
Are you aware of any resources available to help foreign engineers with obtaining NCEES accreditation?
Are there any recent updates or changes to the NCEES approval process that foreign engineers should be aware of?
In your opinion, what are the potential benefits for foreign engineers who successfully obtain NCEES approval and pass the FE Exam in terms of career opportunities in the US engineering industry?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Oscar, a seasoned civil engineer with five years of experience, has contributed to various structural projects in New York, New Jersey, and Florida, currently working with Osborne Engineering. His expertise spans retail, residential, healthcare, and other construction markets, enhancing his diverse skill set.
To evaluate a foreign degree with NCEES, gather necessary documents like your diploma, grades, and course descriptions, then submit them through your NCEES account. After review, you’ll receive feedback within a few weeks.
NCEES offers a PDF evaluation indicating if your degree meets U.S. standards. If there are gaps, you might need further courses and a test before reevaluation to confirm equivalency.
FE exam prerequisites change based on location. Florida allows the exam without prior credential evaluations, whereas New York necessitates them beforehand. NCEES evaluations are broadly accepted and easily submitted through their website.
FE exam requirements vary state by state. In Florida, you can take the exam with a valid ID but need credential evaluations for EIT certification. While Texas offers a waiver with 10 years of experience, it’s uncommon, and those with 30 years since graduation should begin with other disciplines exams and complete credential evaluations.
In 2020, Oscar created a YouTube channel called “uningenierioenusa” to share information about credential evaluations for Spanish speakers. He’s also working on translating his handbook into English to help others navigate the process, as it can be confusing with the resources available on the NCEES website.
Credential evaluations vary individually, even for graduates from the same university, as they’re assessed against ABET standards. Common deficiencies like chemistry or biology might be required for completeness. You can start logging your four years of experience under a licensed engineer from your first day of work, without waiting for Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
The path to licensure varies by state, with New York requiring six years of experience for foreign degree holders and not granting EIT certificates to them. However, some states like Florida and New Jersey allow taking the FE and PE exams without prior experience, while credential evaluations can enhance job prospects by demonstrating readiness for licensure.

About: Oscar Gutierrez A.M ASCE

Oscar Gutierrez is a dedicated structural engineer with a strong academic foundation and extensive experience in the field. He earned his degree in Civil Engineering from Santiago Marino Polytechnic University in Venezuela in 2017, followed by advanced coursework at the Albert Nerken School of Engineering at Cooper Union University in Manhattan, New York City. At Cooper Union, Oscar honed his skills in key areas such as AISC Steel Design, ACI Reinforced Concrete, and industry-standard software like Revit and AutoCAD.

With five years of professional experience in the U.S., Oscar has worked with several engineering firms across Florida, New York, and New Jersey, gaining valuable insight into various aspects of the industry. He currently serves as a structural engineer at Osborn Engineering, a firm with a storied history dating back to 1892. At Osborn, he has contributed to significant projects, including the first phase of the New York Yankees stadium and Fenway Park.

Beyond his professional achievements, Oscar is passionate about mentoring and supporting other engineers through his YouTube channel, “uningenieroenusa.” His channel offers guidance on navigating the job search process as an immigrant engineer and assists with the evaluation of foreign engineering credentials with NCEES. Through personalized consultations, Oscar aims to empower fellow engineers to succeed in their careers.

Sources:

Osborn Engineering
NCEES
FE Exam: What It Is, Who Can Write It, How To Pass
How to Register for the FE Exam: Step-by-Step Guide
uningenierioenusa – YouTube Channel
Connect with Oscar Gutierrez A.M ASCE, on LinkedIn

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.

I hope you found this week’s FE Exam article helpful. 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 your 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

Why You NEED a PE License! Unlock a World of Opportunities

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

In this article (and video above), I talk with Yung Koprowski, the founder and president of Y2K Engineering, about why engineers need a PE license, and why it is so crucial for your professional growth.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Yung:

How has obtaining your professional engineering license benefited both your career and your business endeavors?
What was the impact of your engineering license on your position as a council member in Gilbert, Arizona?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Celebrating 100 Episodes: FE Exam Wisdom & Top Tips

May 22, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

Welcome to a special edition of Pass the FE Exam —it’s our 100th episode celebration! Today we reflect on our journey so far. Throughout these videos, we’ve explored key topics, shared successful strategies, and offered valuable guidance to support engineering students and professionals preparing for the FE exam. We’ve had the honor of featuring esteemed guests from around the globe, each bringing unique insights and expertise to our aspiring engineers, and in this special episode, we showcase some of the top tips from our guests to help you pass the FE exam on your first attempt.

Starting with our first highlight from Episode 46, featuring Alejandro Patino, EIT, Senior Engineer at Colliers Engineering & Design. Alejandro shared some great tips on the importance of replicating the actual exam environment. These strategies are crucial for effective FE exam preparation.

Moving on toEpisode 6, we featured Justin Edenbaum a practicing licensed professional engineer and founder of Never Gray. In this episode, Justin shared valuable advice about the advantages of taking the exam during your senior year, or immediately after graduation.

In Episode 5, featuring Victor Romo EIT, a project designer from Daedalus Structural Engineering. Victor sheds light on the significance of creating a structured self-study schedule for FE exam preparation. Let’s take a look at what his schedule looked like.

Next, Episode 44 featured Christopher [SIV-CHECK], P.E., an assistant project manager from Colliers Engineering & Design. This episode highlights the crucial role of getting support from your company when studying for the FE Exam and how it can help you to actually pass the FE exam.

Concluding our highlights is Episode 46 featuring Nabeal (Newton) Khatib, M.S., a structural engineer and assistant structural project manager from Tetra Tech. Nabeal highly recommends that students and aspiring test takers should give themselves at least two to three months of exam preparation to avoid unnecessary stress. He also shares his successful TTTT framework —Terms, Templates, Time, and Trust—used during his FE exam preparation.

As we wrap up this celebratory episode and look forward to the next hundred, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to you, our listeners, and our incredible guests. Your support and engagement have made this channel what it is today – a platform for learning, sharing, and growing together.

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

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.

I’ll see you next week.

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

Celebrating 100 Episodes: Empowering Engineers on their Path to the PE License

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

Welcome to a special edition of the Pass the PE Exam. We are celebrating our 100th episode together. Throughout our journey, we’ve explored essential topics, shared strategies, and offered valuable advice to empower engineering students and professionals on their PE license path. We’ve been fortunate to host esteemed guests from around the world, each bringing unique insights and wisdom to our aspiring engineers and professionals.

In this article (and video above), I reflect on some of the best tips they’ve shared, including balancing a full-time job with studying, managing time effectively, developing strong study habits and smart scheduling routines, creating comprehensive study plans, and the advantages of earning a PE license for those looking to establish their engineering businesses.

Our first highlight comes from Episode 66, featuring Joanna Johnson, P.E., a transportation engineer from Parametrix. She shared her experiences balancing a full-time job with studying for the PE exam. Her journey provides valuable insights for engineers facing similar paths.

Next, Episode 71 featured Anton Saunders, P.E.,a structural engineer from Greenman Pedersen, Inc., Anton offered insightful advice on PE exam preparation, emphasizing strategies like time management, effective study habits, and smart scheduling.

In Episode 73, Jared Carlson, P.E., LEED AP BD+C, Engineering Director and Principal at Henderson Engineers, shared his inspiring journey towards obtaining his PE license and how it positively impacted his work.

In Episode 29, we spoke with professional engineer [JUH-QWAY] C. Jones, PE, a National Agricultural Engineer from USDA-NRCS and author of the book “Pass The PE Exam In 3 Months: Strategies & Mindset for the Non-Test Taker.” [JUH-QWAY] emphasized the importance of creating a comprehensive study plan for PE exam success.

And last, but certainly not the least, Episode 5, Justin Edenbaum, P.E., founder of Never Gray, discussed the advantages of obtaining a PE license for individuals aiming to establish their own engineering business or offer engineering services.

As we wrap up this celebratory episode and look forward to the next 100 episodes, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to you, our listeners, our sponsor PPI, A Kaplan Company, and our incredible guests. Your support and engagement have made this show be what it is today – a platform for learning, sharing, and growing together. Thank you for being part of our journey!

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

Ultimate TI-36X Pro Guide: Crush the FE Exam with These Hacks

May 8, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk about a tool that can make a significant difference in your exam performance – the TI-36X Pro calculator. Often overlooked, this calculator is a powerhouse of functionality and can be your best ally during the FE Exam.

From solving complex equations to effortlessly managing matrices and vectors, this calculator is more than a tool – it’s your ally in the rigorous test of knowledge and time management that is the FE Exam. Let’s look at some of its features that will help you during the FE Exam:

Equation Solver:

How a PE License Changes Everything for Engineers

April 30, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Steven Hollabaugh, P.E., CFM, the CEO/President at Native Strategies, LLC, about the importance of a PE License and how it empowers individuals to pursue their career goals independently.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Steven:

How did you decide to pursue your PE license in the context of founding a firm to help tribal nations with infrastructure needs?
Do you think having a professional license enables individuals to pursue their career goals independently, rather than relying on others who are licensed to assist them?
As your company continues to expand, are you now able to pursue licensing in other states to further grow your firm’s reach and operations?
What special items do you have on your desk?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Steven pursued his Professional Engineering license to ensure high-quality engineering services for tribal infrastructure projects through his firm. This decision was motivated by a commitment to use technical expertise responsibly for the benefit of tribal communities.
Having a PE license empowers individuals to pursue their career goals independently, eliminating the need to rely on others who are licensed to assist them. This credential opens doors for personal growth and autonomy in one’s professional pursuits.
As Native Strategies, LLC expands, they have obtained licenses in over a dozen states and have employees licensed in over 30 states, allowing them to grow their operations into new regions and pursue diverse projects effectively.
On Steven’s desk, he keeps his professional engineering seal and a Navajo tomahawk gifted by the Navajo Nation, blending his professional expertise with personal passions to inspire pursuing diverse career opportunities aligned with individual aspirations.

About: Steven Hollabaugh, P.E., CFM

Steven is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and has 16+ years of experience in designing and managing a wide variety of civil infrastructure projects. Spending 12 years in the industry, Steven recognized a critical need for engineering and design professionals to complete and deliver in tribal communities for both the federal and private sectors.

Steven started Native Strategies in April 2020. In just under four years, Steven has procured contracts nationwide and grown Native Strategies from himself and a laptop to over 27 industry professionals. Native Strategies is a fully virtual firm with team members all across the United States. As a fully virtual firm, Native Strategies can recruit, mobilize, and perform on projects and contracts all across the country.

Headquartered in Broken Arrow, Native Strategies is already working with 12+ tribal nations local to Oklahoma and 300+ tribal nations from the east to west coast across the United States providing infrastructure & environmental improvements, master planning, construction management, and tribal liaison services.

Steven started Native Strategies to increase the standard of living nationally and internationally, by managing, designing, and constructing with humility, skill, and perseverance.

Sources:

Native Strategies, LLC
Navajo Nation
Connect with Steven Hollabaugh, P.E., CFM, 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

Quitting Your Job to Study for the FE Exam: Is It the Right Move?

April 24, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk about a significant topic: whether or not to quit your job to study for the FE exam. This is a dilemma many of our listeners face, and today, we’re diving deep into the advantages, disadvantages, and alternative options to help you make an informed decision.

Benefits of Leaving Your Job

Increased Focus: Without the daily grind of work, you can dedicate more time and energy to studying for the FE exam. This focused approach could lead to faster and more effective preparation.
Reduced Stress: Balancing work and study can be overwhelming. Quitting your job might significantly lessen this stress, potentially improving your focus and learning ability.
Flexible Study Schedule: Free from a rigid work schedule, you can tailor your study plan to fit your personal learning style, offering the freedom to study at your most productive times.
Potential for Faster Progress: More study time often translates to quicker learning and progress towards your target score.
Boosted Confidence: Fully committing to the exam preparation can increase your confidence, fostering a positive and focused mindset towards your studies.

Disadvantages of Quitting

Now, let’s consider the potential drawbacks:

Financial Strain: Giving up a regular income can lead to financial challenges, affecting you and your dependents.
Resume Gap Concerns: A significant break in employment might raise red flags for future employers.
Loss of Professional Experience: Stepping away from the workforce means missing out on valuable job experience and growth opportunities.
Missed Career Opportunities: You might lose out on promotions or other advancements at your current job.
Reduced Social Interaction: Leaving your job could lead to less social engagement, potentially impacting your emotional well-being.
Renewed Exam Pressure: The pressure to succeed in the exam after quitting your job can be immense, potentially leading to heightened anxiety and stress.

Factors to Consider

So before making a decision, reflect on these critical considerations:

Financial Situation: Assess if you can manage without an income and if you have savings or other financial means to support this period.
Exam Difficulty: Consider your confidence level in your engineering knowledge and the amount of study time you might need.
Career Goals: Evaluate the importance of the FE exam and a Professional Engineering (PE) license for your career path.
Study Habits: Understand your learning preferences – do you thrive studying independently, or do you need the structure of a work environment?
Alternative Options: Have you thought about other methods like part-time study, a leave of absence, or finding a study partner?

Alternatives to Quitting

Lastly, if quitting seems too drastic, here are some alternatives:

Study Part-Time: This allows you to keep working while preparing for the exam, though it requires excellent time management.
Take a Leave of Absence: Some employers may allow a temporary break for exam preparation.
Find a Study Partner: Partnering with someone can boost your motivation and deepen your understanding of the material.
Negotiate Reduced Work Hours: Talk to your employer about cutting back your hours to free up more study time.

Deciding whether to quit your job to study for the FE exam is complex and deeply personal. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Weigh the pros and cons, consider your financial situation, career goals, and study habits. Remember, the FE exam is an important step, but it’s not the sole determinant of your professional success. Choose a path that aligns with your needs and goals, and stay focused on the bigger picture of your career.

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 10 Reasons for Failing the PE Exam (and Proven Strategies for Bouncing Back)

April 16, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I outline 10 common reasons why people are failing the PE Exam because by understanding these reasons, they can turn a short-term setback into a stepping stone for long-term success.

Let’s explore some of the common pitfalls that can lead to failing the PE exam. This isn’t about pointing fingers or feeling down – it’s about identifying these obstacles so you can overcome them in your next attempt.

1 – Being Unprepared:

The PE exam tests a wide range of engineering concepts and requires a comprehensive understanding of each topic. Many candidates make the mistake of focusing only on areas where they feel confident, neglecting weaker subjects. A thorough preparation means covering all topics listed in the NCEES® specification, understanding the underlying principles, and practicing a variety of problems. Diversifying your study material and methods can also help strengthen weak areas.

2 – Poor Time Management:

The PE exam’s time constraint means that efficient time management is crucial. Candidates often spend too long on complex questions, leaving insufficient time for others. A strategic approach would be to first address questions you are confident in, then return to the tougher ones. Practicing under timed conditions can help develop a sense of how long to spend on each question and improve your ability to work under time pressure.

3 – Lack of Rest:

Adequate rest is critical for optimal cognitive functioning. Intense study sessions without sufficient rest can lead to burnout, affecting concentration and memory during the exam. It’s important to maintain a balanced study schedule, ensuring regular breaks and a good night’s sleep, especially in the days leading up to the exam. A well-rested mind is more efficient and focused, which is essential for a lengthy and demanding exam like the PE.

4 – Underestimating the Exam:

Some candidates may not fully appreciate the complexity of the PE exam, leading to inadequate preparation. It’s essential to understand that this exam requires more than just a basic understanding of engineering principles; it tests your ability to apply these principles in complex scenarios. Respect the difficulty level of the exam and prepare accordingly, starting well in advance.

5 – Wrong Study Materials:

Using outdated or irrelevant study materials can be a major setback. The PE exam content evolves, and so should your study resources. It’s crucial to use current and comprehensive materials that align with the latest exam specifications and formats. This includes textbooks, practice exams, and online resources that are up-to-date and relevant to the current exam format.

6 – Distractions While Studying:

Distractions can severely hinder your ability to study effectively. Social media, smartphones, and other forms of entertainment can eat into your valuable study time. Creating a dedicated study space, setting specific study hours, and using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique can help minimize distractions and enhance focus.

7 – Exam Stress and Anxiety:

High levels of stress and anxiety can impair your ability to perform well in the exam. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and positive affirmations can be effective in managing stress. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep also play a significant role in reducing anxiety levels.

8 – Not Knowing Exam Specifications:

A deep understanding of the NCEES exam specifications is crucial for targeted and effective study. These specifications outline the topics and subtopics that will be covered in the exam, allowing you to allocate your study time appropriately. Familiarizing yourself with these specifications ensures that no key area is overlooked during your preparation.

9 – Unfamiliarity with the NCEES® Reference Handbook:

The NCEES Reference Handbook is an indispensable resource during the PE exam. It contains formulas, tables, and other reference material that are essential for solving exam problems. Prior familiarity with the layout and content of this handbook can save valuable time during the exam. It’s beneficial to practice looking up information in the handbook as part of your study routine.

10 – Not Being Mentally Prepared on Exam Day:

Mental preparation is as important as academic preparation. This includes being in the right state of mind on the day of the exam. Strategies such as visualization, positive self-talk, and relaxation techniques can help maintain a calm and focused mindset. A healthy breakfast and arriving early at the exam venue can also contribute to a positive start to the exam day.

Failing the PE exam doesn’t define you as an engineer. It’s a learning experience. By understanding where things went wrong and taking proactive steps, you can turn this setback into an opportunity for growth. Success in the PE exam, like in engineering itself, comes from hard work, perseverance, and continuous learning.

Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Keep pushing forward, stay dedicated, and your efforts will pay off.

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

Equilibrium of Rigid Bodies: Statics

April 10, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), we break down the equilibrium of rigid bodies, zooming in on how to figure out support reactions at a roller. We take you through each step to make it easy to understand and apply in solving support forces in complicated structures.

Question:

Consider the loaded system shown below with supports at A, B, C and D. What is the reaction force at D due to the applied 6kN load?

Blog Posts

Spaced Repetition

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Oscar:

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

About: Oscar Gutierrez A.M ASCE

Sources:

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

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Yung:

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

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

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

Equation Solver:

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Steven:

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

About: Steven Hollabaugh, P.E., CFM

Sources:

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

Benefits of Leaving Your Job

Disadvantages of Quitting

Factors to Consider

Alternatives to Quitting

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

1 – Being Unprepared:

2 – Poor Time Management:

3 – Lack of Rest:

4 – Underestimating the Exam:

5 – Wrong Study Materials:

6 – Distractions While Studying:

7 – Exam Stress and Anxiety:

8 – Not Knowing Exam Specifications:

9 – Unfamiliarity with the NCEES® Reference Handbook:

10 – Not Being Mentally Prepared on Exam Day:

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

Question:

Explanation: