FE Exam

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

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 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

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:

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’ll see you next week.

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

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

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:

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

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?

Explanation:

5 Tips to Overcoming FE Exam Anxiety

March 27, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk about a common yet often unspoken challenge many face while preparing for the FE Exam – exam anxiety.

Anxiety before a big test like the FE is natural. Often, this stems from feeling underprepared. You might worry that you haven’t studied enough or that your preparation methods aren’t effective. This feeling can be compounded by a fear of failure, especially when you’ve invested so much time and effort into your studies.

Past negative experiences with tests can also play a significant role. If you’ve struggled with exams before, it’s easy to worry that history might repeat itself. And then there’s the fear of the consequences – the thought that your entire future career hinges on this one exam can be daunting.

Interestingly, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting around 18 percent of the population. These disorders can develop from a mix of factors like genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events. Recognizing that you’re not alone in this can be a source of comfort.

Now, let’s identify the symptoms. Anxiety isn’t just a mental or emotional state; it manifests physically and behaviorally too. You might experience a racing heartbeat, sweaty palms, or stomach issues. Emotionally, there’s fear, worry, and a sense of impending doom. Behaviorally, you might find it hard to concentrate or become fidgety. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step in managing them. How can we overcome this anxiety when related to the FE exam?

Here Are 5 Tips to Overcoming FE Exam Anxiety:

Determining Reactions at Supports for Beams and Frames

March 13, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), we determine reactions at supports for beams and frames. In this scenario, we analyze a beam supported by a pin at A and a roller at B, carrying various loads.

Question:

Consider the beam shown below. It is supported by a pin at A and a roller at B. It carries a distributed load as shown, spanning a distance of 3 meters from the beam’s left end. Additionally, it carries a concentrated load of 6 kN at its right end. Determine the reactions at A and B.

Explanation:

Draw the free-body diagram of the beam using equivalent forces:

Incorporate support reactions Ay and By. Omit extra x-direction force at A (pin support). Add 6kN concentrated load at the beam’s far-right end. Simplify distributed loads by converting them to equivalent point loads, preserving the original load’s impact on the beam.

Initiate the inspection by focusing on the far-left end of the beam. Examine the uniformly varying load, noting its gradual increase from zero at the left end to a maximum of 2kN/m along the beam.

Compute the equivalent load for the section by finding the area under the triangular curve. Using the formula for a triangle (half base times height) with a 1-meter base and 2 kN/m height, the result is a 1 kN point load. Consider the specific point where this force is applied for a comprehensive understanding.

To find the centroid of a right triangle, connect each vertex to the midpoint of the opposite side with medians. The centroid, acting as the balance point, is consistently located at two-thirds the length of the base from the angle opposite the right angle. This straightforward method simplifies geometric analysis.

The equivalent 1kN point force would act at a distance of 2/3 meters from the left side of the beam.

Proceed to the next step by addressing the rectangular distributed load. Calculate its equivalent point load using the same procedure as previously outlined.

Calculate the area under the rectangular curve to determine the 4kN equivalent load. Due to symmetry, place the equivalent point load at the rectangle’s center, located 2 meters from the left side of the beam.

Incorporate the final equivalent force into the free-body diagram and proceed to calculate reaction forces at supports A and B. A correct diagram ensures a straightforward calculation process.

Initiate the analysis with a force balance in the y-direction for the static beam, setting the sum of forces to zero. Formulate the equation: Force Ay + By – 1 – 4 – 6 = 0, simplified to Force Ay + By – 11 = 0. To resolve the two unknowns, introduce a moment balance about point A.

Designate anti-clockwise as the positive moment direction. Factor in the 1kN force at one-third of a meter from A (add 1/3), and the 4kN force at 1 meter causing a CLOCKWISE moment (subtract 4). Incorporate force By(2) positively and subtract 6(3). Confirm the resultant sum equals zero for equilibrium.

Equation 2 has been successfully solved, revealing that the value of reaction By is 10.833 kN.

Finally, the reaction By can be substituted into equation 1, revealing that Ay is equal to 0.167 kN.

Answer:

The correct answer is A.

Final Remarks:

Draw a clear and accurate free-body diagram
Identify the type of supports (pin, roller, fixed).
Apply the equations of equilibrium carefully.
Consider different loading conditions and beam configurations for practice.

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 FE Exam

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

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:

I’ll see you next week.

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