Blog Posts

Winning Strategies to Pass the FE Exam

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

In this article (and video above), I talk with Jeffrey Basiliere, EIT, a Project Engineer at the Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida. Jeffrey not only won our 3-month PPI on-demand course but also shares his winning strategies and study methods for acing the FE exam in this episode.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Jeffrey:

How did you realize the significance of taking the FE exam for your career?
What study methods did you use to prepare for the FE exam?
How do you maintain consistent study habits for the FE exam, given its challenging scope and potential setbacks?
Did your time in the Marine Corps help you prepare for challenging tasks like the FE exam?
Does passing the FE exam after initially failing it give you confidence that you could also pass the PE exam if you failed it once?
How has winning the PPI on Demand course helped you in your preparations for the PE exam?
What are your winning strategies for structuring your study schedule and habits for your upcoming PE exam?
How do you effectively manage your time with all the things you’re juggling?
How can experiences like overcoming exam challenges help build resilience in your career and life?
What final piece of advice would you offer engineers preparing for their FE or PE exams?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

The FE exam is crucial for an engineering career because it enhances professional credibility and opens doors to more advanced opportunities in the field.
Preparing for the FE exam involves studying consistently with winning strategies and a structured plan. Engineers achieve mastery by repeating their learning and practicing with exam simulations to understand the exam’s content and format effectively.
To maintain consistent study habits for the FE exam, individuals stick to a structured schedule, regularly review material, practice with sample exams, and seek support when needed.
The discipline and learning techniques from the Marine Corps, like focusing on repetition and pushing through challenges, are great preparation for tough tasks like the FE exam.
Passing the FE exam after an initial failure shows that persistence and determination can lead to success, providing confidence that the same approach can work for the PE exam.
The PPI on Demand course helps by offering a flexible study schedule and ensuring a solid understanding of each topic through built-in assessments. This structured approach enhances preparation and boosts confidence for the PE exam.
For your upcoming PE exam, structuring your study schedule with an on-demand course allows flexibility to balance life’s unexpected events. Setting a clear exam date and regularly assessing readiness will help maintain motivation and adjust study plans as needed for optimal preparation.
Effectively managing time involves setting a structured study schedule that accommodates personal and professional responsibilities. Having a supportive network, both at home and at work, plays a crucial role in maintaining focus and achieving balance amidst multiple commitments.
Overcoming exam challenges builds resilience by teaching valuable lessons in perseverance and problem-solving. These experiences prepare individuals to handle setbacks in their careers and personal lives, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and development.
For engineers preparing for their FE or PE exams, it’s crucial to simulate exam conditions by taking practice tests in a quiet environment with timed sessions. Learning to manage stress, stay hydrated, and allocate time effectively to each question will help optimize performance on exam day.

About: Jeffrey Basiliere, EIT

Jeffrey Basiliere, EIT, is a Project Engineer at the Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida, overseeing sugarcane production and processing. Previously, he worked at Concept Group, LLC, focusing on product design with Insulon® Technology. He holds a Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Florida Atlantic University and served in the United States Marine Corps with deployments to Afghanistan. Jeffrey is dedicated to achieving his engineering goals, including passing the FE exam and pursuing licensure as an EIT since 2021.

Sources:

Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida
FE Exam
PE License
Connect with Jeffrey Basiliere, EIT, 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

Pass the FE Exam with Flying Colors: Insider Tips from an EIT

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

In this article (and the video above), Mauricio Bernal, a returning intern at Burns & McDonnell, talks with Katie Lev, an Engineer-in-Training and Assistant Structural Engineer at Burns & McDonnell. They discuss everything from exam format insights to personal study strategies and exam day tips, providing valuable information for aspiring engineers looking to pass the FE Exam with flying colors.

Here Are Some of the Questions Asked:

When is the best time to schedule the FE exam, and how far in advance should it be done?
What is the format of the exam, and what types of questions are included?
Did you create a study schedule with the given timeline, and if yes, how did you organize your study sessions and set specific goals?
How did you balance studying for your exam with your other school commitments and responsibilities?
What strategies did you use during the exam to ensure you could answer all the questions within the allotted time?
What advice do you have for aspiring engineers preparing to take the FE exam for the first time?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

The best time to schedule the FE exam is after finishing relevant coursework in your senior year. It’s wise to book your exam several months ahead to ensure you get your preferred date and location at a nearby testing center.
The FE exam consists of 110 questions divided into two parts with a break in between. It primarily features multiple-choice questions, alongside alternative questions that may require selecting correct points on graphs, dragging and dropping items, or filling in numerical answers.
A structured study schedule is essential for preparing for the FE exam within a specific timeline. Study sessions are organized to focus on key exam topics, with goals set for mastering unfamiliar terms and practicing with sample exams using the provided reference booklet.
Balancing study for the FE exam with other school commitments involves adjusting study time based on workload fluctuations throughout the academic term. During less busy periods, focus more on exam preparation, and during busier times like midterms, manage overall school workload effectively.
During the exam, effective time management is crucial. Candidates can use timed practice sessions beforehand to become comfortable answering questions within the three-minute average per question, ensuring they maintain a steady pace and complete all sections within the allotted time.
For aspiring engineers preparing to take the FE exam for the first time, it’s important to take the exam even if you’re uncertain about your future career path. This credential is valuable across different engineering fields and offers flexibility for future educational and career opportunities.

About Mauricio Bernal

Mauricio Bernal is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, with an expected graduation in May 2026. On campus, he is a UMKC Trustee’s Scholar, serves as Vice President of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, and is actively involved in the Latinx Student Union, American Society of Civil Engineers, and the concrete canoe team. After his freshman year, Mauricio began his internship at Burns & McDonnell in the transmission and distribution global practice, working on underground and submarine cable projects. Returning for his second summer, he is now contributing to the power group, providing civil work for solar, wind, and power plant projects. On Saturdays, he serves as a Data Science Instructor for the K-12 Initiative Pipeline Programs, teaching soil science and developing STEM curricula for over 200 students. Through his studies and his time at Burns & McDonnell, Mauricio has gained experience with Autodesk Civil 3D, SolidWorks, HydroCAD, Power BI, and FLO-2D. Mauricio is preparing to take the FE exam in Spring of 2025.

About Katie Lev, EIT

Katie Lev is an accomplished assistant structural engineer in training at Burns & McDonnell, with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a Master of Science in Structural Engineering from Northwestern University. Day to day, she mainly focuses on supporting coal-burning power plants to add natural gas capacity, plant services and most recently solar power generating facilities. During her time at Northwestern, she served as a Civil/Structural Engineering Intern at Infrastructure Engineering, Inc. as well as a Structural Intern at Burns & McDonnell. Additionally, she worked as a tour guide at Northwestern’s Office of Admissions as well as a teaching assistant and student grader. In her spare time, she co-managed the Smart Tree project for Engineers for a Sustainable World and held a leadership role in Relay for Life. Katie recently passed her FE exam in the Spring of 2023.

About Matthew Douglas

Matthew currently serves as a content creator and host of The Engineering Project Management Podcast. 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 with private consulting firms and public agencies, and has even held a 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, he has taken the role of Public Works Operations Manager. 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.

Sources:

Burns & McDonnell
Northwestern University
FE Exam
Connect with Mauricio Berna on LinkedIn
Connect with Katie Lev, EIT, on LinkedIn

This Episode Is Brought to You by Burns & McDonnell

At Burns & McDonnell, our engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists, and scientists do more than plan, design, and construct. With a mission unchanged since 1898 — make our clients successful — our more than 13,500 professionals partner with you on the toughest challenges, constantly working to make the world an amazing place. Each professional brings an ownership mentality to projects at our 100% employee-owned firm, which has safety performance among the top 5% of AEC firms. That means we think like owners, working through each challenge until it’s resolved, meeting or exceeding our client’s goals. Find out more about Burns & McDonnell here: burnsmcd.com/careers

I’ll see you next week.

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

PE License Renewal: How Many PDH Hours Do You Need?

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

In this article (and video above), I talk about the essential topic of the PE license renewal process. Join us as we unravel the mystery behind PDH (Professional Development Hours) requirements and explain exactly how many PDH hours you need to renew your PE license.

The number of Professional Development Hours (PDH) required to maintain your PE license varies significantly depending on your state or licensing board. Most state licensing boards require you to get about 30 Professional Development Hours, also called PDH, every two years to maintain your Professional Engineer (PE) license. You will need to check with your individual state board’s website to be sure of this and other license renewal requirements.

Here’s How to Find How Many PDH Your State Requires You To Get to Renew Your PE License:

1. Search “[your state name] engineering board” on Google and your state board’s website should be the first result. Alternatively, you can go to this link, click on your state, and scroll to the bottom. Here’s an example of what the Google search looks like:

Finding your state board’s website through a Google search

And here’s how it looks on the NCEES website:

2. You will need to do some searching on your board’s website to find the PE license renewal information. Look for the word “renewal” which may be near the word “licensing.” I recommend using CTRL+F or CMD+F and searching for the word “renewal” to make it easier. Here’s what it looks like on the website for Utah’s board:

3. After clicking on the link you should find at least one of three things, which will usually contain the information on how many PDH hours you need:

Renewal information, which not all state board websites have (but most do).
FAQs about renewal and licensing in general. Usually you can get the information you need from this if you can’t find it elsewhere.
The actual page you go to when it’s time to renew your license.

Here are some examples of PDH requirements in different states:

Florida: 18 PDH every two years
Texas: 15 PDH annually
New York: 36 PDH every three years

Here are a few important things to remember:

Some states have specific requirements for the type of PDH that can be used for PE license renewal. For example, some states may require a certain number of hours of ethics training.
You may be able to carry over unused PDH from one renewal period to the next. However, the number of hours that can be carried over varies by state.
It is your responsibility to stay up-to-date on the continuing education requirements for your PE license. Failing to meet the requirements could result in your license being suspended or revoked.

Many states will send an email or letter reminding you to renew about 90 days before your license expires. Where I live this comes in the mail and it contains a code that I need to use as part of the PE license renewal process.

A lot of the time, when you’re going to renew, you’ll be reminded of how many PDH you need to have to renew. Some states will require you to record and even report your PDH, so make sure you’re keeping track Save all the applicable paperwork or files to verify your PDH credits.

When you first renew, some states will waive the PDH requirement because you have so recently passed the PE Exam and finished school.

And in many instances, you’ll be able to carry over extra PDH from one renewal period into another. My state, for instance, lets me carry over 15 PDH, which is nice because I had a lot of extra from when I was finishing up my master’s degree!

Just be sure to pay careful attention to the information on your state board’s website. When in doubt, contact them and ask! I’ve done this multiple times and they’re always happy to help.

Once you’ve had your license for a couple of years, you’ll be used to this process, but that doesn’t mean you won’t forget how many PDH you may need, especially if you’re licensed in multiple states like I am!

If you get digital copies of certificates of completion, save those in a folder just for PDF documents in Google Drive or other cloud storage.

And if you’re worried you’ll forget to renew, don’t sweat it. Most states will send that reminder as I mentioned before. Even then it can be easy to forget, though, so set up a recurring reminder for a month before your license expires! Most expirations are at the same time every couple of years anyway.

About Matthew Douglas

This Episode Is Brought to You by Burns & McDonnell

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

Changing Your FE Exam Discipline: A Step-by-Step Guide

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

In this article (and video above), I talk about a common dilemma faced by many aspiring engineers: changing your FE exam discipline. Whether you’re reassessing your career goals or discovering a new passion, join us as we demystify the process step-by-step.

Are you preparing for the FE exam but suddenly uncertain about your chosen discipline? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many FE candidates discover the need to change the FE exam discipline for various reasons.

Changing your FE exam discipline after NCEES registration doesn’t have to be a hassle. In fact, it’s a smart move if your career aspirations have evolved, or you’ve discovered a different engineering passion. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you make a seamless transition and stay on track for Engineer-in-Training (EIT) glory.

Why Choosing the Right Fe Exam Discipline Are So Important:

Choosing the right discipline for your FE exam is crucial. Your discipline determines the topics and questions you’ll encounter during the test. Selecting the discipline that aligns with your academic background and career goals is essential.

However, circumstances can change, and you might feel like changing the FE exam discipline for several reasons. This could be due to a change in career direction, academic focus, or simply realizing that another discipline suits you better.

Understanding the need for flexibility, NCEES® provides an option to change your FE exam discipline after registration. Remember that this process incurs a $50 administrative fee, but it ensures you’re adequately prepared for the exam in your new discipline.

Changing your FE exam discipline involves a straightforward process managed in your NCEES® account.

Here Is a Step-By-Step to Begin the Process:

Why Hiring Managers VALUE Engineers with an FE Certification

July 1, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Wendy Bailey, Structural Department Manager at Burns & McDonnell, about the importance of standing out in today’s competitive job market for engineers. With the demand for skilled engineers on the rise, earning an FE certification can be a key differentiator. Wendy Bailey shares her insights on how passing the FE exam can give candidates an edge in the hiring process and the various benefits it offers when applying for jobs.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Wendy:

How does passing the FE exam make candidates stand out in the hiring process compared to those who haven’t taken it?
Does passing the FE exam suggest any specific soft skills or attributes for potential engineers at your firm?
Are there specific roles or projects at Burns & McDonnell where FE certification is particularly advantageous or required?
How does Burns & McDonnell support employees who are preparing for or seeking to take the FE exam?
Have you noticed any patterns in the career paths of engineers who pass the FE exam early compared to those who haven’t taken it?
Do you have any last pieces of advice for our viewers about taking the FE exam?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Having FE certification or EIT on a resume signals to recruiters that the candidate is committed to getting licensed and advancing their career, aligning with Burns & McDonnell’s values. This demonstrates initiative and a focus on professional growth, which is highly valued by the company.
Passing the FE exam demonstrates a candidate’s ability to absorb and apply technical knowledge, highlighting their commitment to continuous learning. It also shows initiative and a willingness to pursue further education, aligning with the lifelong learning expected of engineers.
At Burns & McDonnell, all engineers are expected to obtain professional licensure, starting with the FE exam. This empowers them to own their projects and make decisions directly with clients, reflecting the company’s commitment to employee ownership and entrepreneurship.
Burns & McDonnell provides tuition assistance and resources for job-related courses and certifications. As a hiring manager, seeing an FE certification or EIT designation on a candidate’s resume is typically preferred, though individual circumstances are always considered.
How does passing the FE exam contribute to the overall success of projects and team dynamics at Burns & McDonnell?
Passing the FE exam shows you’re committed to engineering and solving problems for clients, reflecting initiative and a proactive approach to teamwork at Burns & McDonnell. This aligns with our culture of employee ownership and success, where everyone’s dedication contributes to team achievement and client satisfaction.
Taking the FE exam soon after finishing your undergraduate degree is crucial. It tests foundational knowledge that’s fresher in your mind, making it easier to pass. Delaying the exam can make it harder to recall that knowledge and could slow your career progression, especially for roles that require licensure.
Taking the FE exam in your final year of coursework is ideal, marking your entry into professional engineering. Passing this test signifies your readiness to contribute to impactful projects that shape society, making it a significant milestone in your engineering career.

About Wendy Bailey

Wendy Bailey has been with Burns & McDonnell since 2008, after graduating from Missouri University of Science & Technology. As a structural engineer, she specializes in steel, concrete, and masonry design, with expertise in high seismic and wind regions like Hawaii, Illinois, and California. Her projects include airplane hangars, operation headquarters, and training facilities for both commercial and government clients. She also designs structures supporting photovoltaic installations.

Outside of work, Wendy is passionate about promoting STEM careers. She participates in Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day and mentors high school students in engineering classes.

Sources:

Burns & McDonnell
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Army Corps of Engineers
PE Exam
FE Exam
EIT (Engineer in Training)
Connect with Wendy Bailey on LinkedIn

This Episode Is Brought to You by Burns & McDonnell

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.

I’ll see you next week.

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

Skyrocket Your Engineering Career with a Civil PE License!

June 25, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Don Kline, P.E., founder and president of Kline Engineering & Consulting. Don shares his insights on how a Civil PE license can boost your career. Plus, he delves into the comprehensive support system provided by companies like Kline Engineering & Consulting to help employees achieve this milestone.

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Obtaining a Civil PE license establishes professional credibility and enhances recognition within the engineering community, fostering career growth.
The PE license is a fundamental requirement for advancing to higher-level positions, leadership roles, and entrepreneurial ventures within the engineering industry.
A PE license empowers engineers to start their own businesses, offering greater autonomy and potential for financial success.
Companies like Kline Engineering and Consulting provide comprehensive support for employees pursuing PE licenses, including financial assistance, continuing education, training, and resources, benefiting both individuals and the company’s growth.
Pursuing and achieving a PE license requires dedication, hard work, and ongoing learning, leading to personal and professional development.
The Civil PE license serves as a lifelong professional credential, opening doors to new opportunities, leadership positions, and increased earning potential over time.
Holding a PE license demonstrates a commitment to excellence and professionalism in the field, earning respect and recognition from peers, employers, and clients.
Regardless of engineering discipline, a PE license offers flexibility for diverse career paths such as consulting, teaching, management, and more.
Engineers with PE licenses are well-positioned for leadership roles within organizations, showcasing expertise, competency, and credibility valued in the industry.

About: Don Kline, P.E.

Kline Engineering & Consulting, LLC. Mr. Kline graduated from UVA with a B.S. in aerospace engineering, and he earned his M.S. in civil/structural engineering from VA Tech in 1989. Early in his career, Mr. Kline worked in a mid-size structural engineering office for Haynes Whaley Associates (now IMEG). He spent 17 years working in a variety of roles at VSL (international leader in post-tensioning and related engineering). During his tenure at VSL, Mr. Kline worked in engineering and business development, and he eventually became VSL’s business lead for the eastern part of the USA.

In 2007, Mr. Kline founded Kline Engineering & Consulting, LLC, a structural engineering consulting firm. Mr. Kline has over 30 years of experience in the design, construction, repair, and preservation of concrete structures. Mr. Kline is a leader in the design, construction, evaluation, and repair of post-tensioned (PT) structures. Mr. Kline has designed numerous commercial and residential buildings, parking structures, as well as other types of structures such as tanks. Today, Mr. Kline remains the founding principal at Kline Engineering & Consulting, LLC.

In 2022, Mr. Kline became co-founder and owner of InfrastructureTek, LLC. InfrastructureTek provides sensor and monitoring technology for structural health monitoring of concrete structures. Mr. Kline is a member of PTI, ACI, ICRI, The National Capital Chapter for ACI, and the SEA-Metropolitan Washington Chapter. He serves on PTI’s Board of Directors, as well as technical committees for Building Design (DC-20), Repair, Rehabilitation, and Strengthening (DC-80), and the Code Change Task Group. He serves on ACI Committees 318 T (Structural Concrete Building Code – Post-Tensioning), ACI 320 (Post-Tensioning Code), ACI 423 (Prestressed Concrete), ACI 362 (Parking Structures), and ACI 301-I (PT Specifications). Mr. Kline has published papers in various periodicals including Concrete International, Structure Magazine, and the PTI Journal. He has presented papers at ACI, PTI, ASBI, and fib conferences.

Sources:

Kline Engineering & Consulting
PE Licensure
Connect with Don Kline, 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

How to Register for the FE Exam (Updated 2024)

June 19, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and the video above), I discuss “How to Register for the FE Exam,” now updated for 2024. I walk you through the process of creating an account, checking eligibility, paying fees, and scheduling your exam. Keep reading to make sure your registration for the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam goes smoothly and leads to success!

The FE exam is generally your first step in the process of becoming a licensed professional engineer (P.E.). The exam is administered via computer throughout the year at Pearson VUE test centers and lasts for 5 hours and 20 minutes. It consists of 110 multiple-choice questions covering various topics from your engineering degree. So, let’s break down everything you need to know to ace this exam!

1 – Overview of the FE Exam:

2 – Important Covid-Related Testing Information ( Updated: 31 March, 2024 )

As per the PPC’s: We continue to monitor COVID-19 and adjust Pearson VUE test center operations as needed. At present, company-owned Pearson Professional Centers (PPCs) do not require the wearing of face masks, proof of vaccination, or other unique entry requirements unless mandated by local regulations.

3 – Exam Dates and Scheduling:

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.
[Read more…] about Proven Scientific Study Techniques to Pass the PE Exam

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:

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.

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?