FE Exam

Crush the FE Exam: Expert Tips for Preparation and Retaining Knowledge

August 9, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article, (and video above), I dive into one of the most important steps on the journey to becoming a licensed engineer: PREPARING FOR THE FE EXAM. We explore effective strategies to utilize your strengths and weaknesses in each exam topic, and discuss techniques for retaining knowledge to maximize your domain knowledge.

Once you’ve decided to register for the FE exam, or if you’re in the planning phase, the next crucial step is to prepare for it. Finding studying techniques and strategies that work for you is key to making the process friendly with your workload and daily responsibilities.

Strategies help us organize information into patterns and encourage purposeful learning. Understanding the exam specifications is essential, so let’s take a look at the areas of knowledge covered in the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) CIVIL CBT Exam.

The Exam Consists of 14 Areas, Including:

Group Studying for the FE Exam: Weighing the Pros and Cons

July 26, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article, (and video above), I explore the topic of group studying for the FE Exam and whether it is beneficial or not. Studying for the FE Exam is a crucial step in an engineer’s journey, and finding the most effective study methods is essential for success

Group studying for the FE Exam can offer several advantages. It provides an opportunity for students to collaborate, share knowledge, and tackle challenging problems together. By working in a group, students can learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives, which can enhance their understanding of the exam topics, as well as their performance.

Another benefit of group studying is that it helps students stay motivated and accountable. When studying as a group, individuals are more likely to remain focused and committed to their study goals because they don’t want to let their fellow group members down. The shared sense of purpose can create a supportive environment that encourages active engagement and consistent progress.

Group Studying May Not Be Suitable for Everyone

Some individuals may find it distracting or prefer studying alone, allowing them to create a more personalized study environment that maximizes their skill sets and preferences.

Why a Professional Engineering License is Crucial for Engineers

July 12, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. 1 Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Patrick F. McGowan, PE, Senior Vice President and Mobility Operations Director, at WSP USA, who gives us the real reasons why you should stick to it, and take the FE Exam on your path to getting a professional engineering license.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Patrick:

How has the PE license impacted your career from your perspective at this point in your professional journey?
When you obtained your professional engineering license, did you initially have a clear determination to pursue it, or were there moments of uncertainty when you considered whether or not to commence the licensing process?
Is it common for professional engineering licenses to be a requirement for advancing to specific positions within many organizations?
Why is it important to obtain a professional engineering license, even if one is uncertain about the future direction of their career in fields like construction or chemical engineering?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Why I Decided to Reschedule My FE Exam

June 23, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I discuss why I decided to reschedule my FE Exam and why I believe success is not defined by how quickly you complete the journey but by who you become. July 2023 was when I was planning to take my FE Exam. However, I embarked on a profound journey of introspection and prioritization. Through deep soul-searching, I made the choice to reschedule the exam, and I want to share with you why it is the best decision for my personal growth.

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Becoming a Fire Protection Engineer: Requirements and Path to Licensure

June 14, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I explain what a fire protection engineer (or FPE) do, the steps to becoming one, and how the FE exam is part of your pathway.

A fire protection engineer (or FPE) is a specialized engineering professional who focuses on designing systems and measures to prevent, control, and mitigate fire-related risks in buildings, structures, and various environments. Fire protection engineers utilize their knowledge of fire science, engineering principles, and applicable codes and standards to develop effective fire protection strategies.

A Fire Engineers’ Responsibilities May Include:

FE Exam Review Struggles – My Story

May 31, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and the video above), I am thrilled to have Matthew Douglas, Operations Leader at the Engineering Management Institute, joining us again. As you may recall, we caught up with Matthew a month ago when he embarked on his journey of studying for the FE Exam. Today, we have the opportunity to delve deeper into his experiences and gain valuable insights into his FE exam preparation process.

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Q: Can you provide an update on your progress with the FE exam preparation since our previous conversation?
A: Matthew has improved his FE exam preparation by setting aside daily study time. The PPI course, including detailed explanations, practice exams, homework, and quizzes, has been invaluable. Despite the limited time, he prioritizes studying to stay on track.
Q: How has content from channels such as Pass the FE Exam influenced and contributed to your study routine?
A: Channels, like Pass the FE Exam, are valuable study resources, often used alongside other materials. They provide informative content, including discussions on waivers for the FE exam in different states. Students also find benefit in exploring PE exam materials through channels like these.
Q: Can you provide any tips or strategies that have helped you stay on track with your study plan?
A: To stay on track with your study plan, two key tips are essential. Firstly, set calendar reminders and integrate study sessions, family activities, and work commitments into your schedule to effectively manage your time. Secondly, cultivate the right mindset by acknowledging the significance of completing your studies and committing to the goal. Embrace the intrinsic motivation that drives you, enabling you to stay focused and resilient even during busy periods. By implementing these strategies, you can establish a productive study habit and make consistent progress towards your objectives.
Q: Are there any specific techniques or approaches that have helped you maximize the productivity of your study sessions?
A: A good approach is to study a previous class by utilizing past recorded sessions for better note-taking and retention. Completing related assignments and attempting diagnostic exams without prior studying can provide valuable insights and boost confidence. Breaking down the study process into manageable steps and celebrating small victories enhances motivation and progress.
Q: What strategies or plans do you have in place to maximize your productivity and make the most of the remaining time before the exam day?
A: To make the most of the remaining time before the exam, prioritize finding additional study resources, collecting relevant materials, and dedicating extra time for focused studying. Consider extending the study period if possible and aim to build confidence through comprehensive preparation to avoid retakes.
Q: How do you envision the FE exam influencing your career, professional growth, and the opportunities it will bring upon passing?
A: Passing the FE exam will significantly impact career growth by opening doors to higher positions, marketing opportunities for the company, and aligning with the credentials of colleagues and industry professionals. It will enable future consulting endeavors and ensure professional credibility. Career progression, providing for one’s family, and leveraging various opportunities are key motivations tied to passing the exam.
Q: What final tips or recommendations would you offer to individuals for their FE exam preparation who are going through the same process as you?
A: Change your mindset and develop a passion for the FE exam by being enthusiastic about the learning process and viewing it as a fulfilling journey rather than a dreaded task can help you stay motivated and committed to studying consistently.

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 a role of an educator. As such, he loves to lead, build, mentor, and help those in need.

Sources:

Juggling Family and Work While Preparing for the FE Exam: Tips from a Working Professional

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

PPI has helped engineers achieve their licensing goals since 1975. Passing the FE and PE exams can open doors to career advancement and new opportunities. Check out PPI’s wide range of prep options, including Live Online courses, OnDemand courses, and digital study tools to help prepare you to pass your licensing exam here.

I hope you found this article helpful. In upcoming articles, I will solve some more PE exam practice problems and answer other questions from our subscribers. Pass the PE Exam videos will publish weekly, so be sure to click the subscribe button so you don’t miss something that could make a substantial difference in your exam result.

Lastly, I encourage you to ask questions in the comments of this video or on this page, and I’ll read and respond to them in future videos. So, if there’s a specific topic you want me to cover or answer, we have you covered.

I’ll see you next week.

Anthony Fasano, P.E.

Engineering Management Institute

Author of Engineer Your Own Success

How to Obtain a FE Exam Waiver | Engineering License Made Easier

May 17, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

Do you want to get a Waiver for the FE Exam? Understanding the requirements and regulations for FE exam waivers is crucial when pursuing licensure as a Professional Engineer, and in this article, (and video above), I explore the various requirements and regulations for obtaining a Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam waiver in different states.

Direct PE Exam Application:

In certain states, individuals who possess at least 12 years of acceptable engineering work experience, including five years of being in “responsible charge,” can apply directly for the Professional Engineering (or PE) exam without taking the FE exam. Responsible charge refers to the direct control and personal supervision of engineering work. Additionally, individuals holding a post-baccalaureate engineering degree from an accredited program may claim creditable experience, up to a maximum of two years through one of the following:

1. Progressive Engineering Experience:

If you are currently working in an engineering position after graduation, your experience is considered “progressive engineering experience.” This experience can be fully referenced when applying for the PE exam.

2. Exceptions for Accredited Degrees and Educators:

Applicants holding a post-baccalaureate engineering degree from an accredited program may receive creditable experience toward the requirement, up to a maximum of two years. Additionally, engineering educators and individuals with advanced accredited degrees may have alternative criteria for waiving the FE and/or PE exams.

Here Are the Requirements for Obtaining an FE Waiver in Arizona, Texas, California and North Carolina:

Arizona FE Waiver Packet Requirements:

The Engineer Fundamentals Exam Waiver Packet in Arizona includes several essential documents. These include a completed application with all questions answered, a signed check or money order for the application fee, the Arizona Statement of Citizenship form, a copy of a government-issued ID, verification of licensure/registration from all registered states, official college transcripts if applicable, three Certificates of Experience Record and Reference forms (if applicable), and any relevant disciplinary or criminal documents.

Texas Board of Professional Engineers’ Waiver Criteria:

The Texas Board of Professional Engineers typically requires applicants to take and pass both the FE and PE exams. However, there are situations where the examination requirement can be waived. To be eligible for a waiver, applicants must fulfill specific criteria such as submitting a standard application, paying the application fee, providing a letter requesting the waiver(s), passing the ethics exam, and documenting a certain number of years of creditable experience based on their educational background.

FE Waiver Process for California:

California has its own set of conditions for obtaining an FE waiver as you can see below:

North Carolina State applicants with 20 or more years of experience of practice may seek to waive the FE exam, and to do so, must submit an application to the Board for approval of the waiver before being permitted to take the PE exam. Applicants are urged to file their application well in advance of the NCEES exam registration deadline in order to assure the Board receives all the necessary information to review prior to the deadline.

In conclusion, understanding the requirements and regulations for FE exam waivers is crucial when pursuing licensure as a Professional Engineer. Remember to check with your state board for specific guidelines and ensure you meet all the necessary criteria and good luck on your engineering journey!

Sources/References:

Engineer Fundamentals Exam Waiver Packet
Exam Waiver Requirements
Process for Requesting a Waiver of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam when Applying for Licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE)
Flowchart-Do I qualify for the Fundamentals of Engineering waiver?
North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors Professional Engineer Application Process

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

I’ll see you next week.

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

Juggling Family and Work While Preparing for the FE Exam: Tips from a Working Professional

May 4, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this episode, (and video above), I interview Matthew Douglas, civil engineer and the Operations Leader at the Engineering Management Institute, as he embarks on his journey to pass the FE Exam. Having been out of school for seven years, Matthew is taking on the challenge of preparing for the FE Exam while juggling family and work responsibilities. With the help of our sponsor, PPI, a Kaplan Company, Matthew will be using their course to prepare for the NCEES FE Exam. We explore his motivation for committing to this goal and his experience thus far as a working professional studying from home.

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Q: What advice would you give someone who is struggling to find a dedicated and consistent study schedule for an upcoming exam, especially when facing various obstacles like a recent move, a new job, and others wanting their own dedicated time with them?
A: Setting a dedicated time to study every day and putting it on the calendar can be really helpful in overcoming obstacles and getting into a study rhythm, especially when balancing a full-time job and family obligations. Treating studying as an important commitment and scheduling it in advance makes it more solidified and easier to prioritize.
Q: What strategies can be employed to manage anxiety and stay focused during the final stretch of of preparing for the FE Exam? Can you share some effective tips for staying motivated and maintaining progress towards study goals?
A: The best way to overcome anxiety for an exam is through preparation and consistency in studying. Building a good study schedule and utilizing resources such as review courses can also be beneficial. It’s normal to feel anxious about an 8-hour exam, but pushing through and taking the exam can provide valuable experience if future attempts are needed.
Q: What are some strategies that you recommend for effectively utilizing the PPI course materials, such as the slides, write-ups, and diagnostic exams, during the final stretch of preparing for the FE Exam? How can you prioritize what to study first and ensure that you make the most of your study time?
A: You must balance theory and practice when studying for an exam. It is important to understand the theory behind a topic first, but then it is essential to do as many problems associated with that topic as possible to prepare for the actual exam. Practicing under timed conditions is crucial to get used to the pressure and stress of the real exam.

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 a role of an educator. As such, he loves to lead, build, mentor, and help those in need.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

I’ll see you next week.

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

What Is Water Resources and Environmental Engineering?

April 19, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), which is the fifth and final video in a five-part series about the five different civil engineering disciplines, we dive into the world of Water Resources & Environmental Engineering. If you’ve ever wondered what this field is all about or what a Water Resource and Environmental Engineer actually does, you’re in the right place.

We’ll be exploring the different responsibilities of Water Resource and Environmental Engineers, the qualifications needed to apply for Water Resources Jobs, and the typical responsibilities that come with this role. So, whether you’re a student considering a career in Water Resources & Environmental Engineering or just interested in learning more about this field, stay tuned for an informative and engaging discussion.

What is Water Resources & Environmental Engineering?

Water resources and environmental engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the study and management of water resources and the natural environment. This field combines principles from a range of disciplines, including civil engineering, environmental science, hydrology, geology, and ecology. Each of these disciplines are separate but sometimes they get discussed together.

The FE Exam Format {2023} | Question Selection Algorithm Explained

April 5, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

Gearing up to take the FE exam in 2023? If so, you’ll want to know everything about the format and structure of the test. In this article (and video above), I’ll explain the question selection algorithm and give you a comprehensive overview of the exam’s format and structure. I will also cover the types of questions you can expect to see on the FE exam, how they’re organized, and how much time you’ll have to complete each section.

Understanding the format and structure of the FE exam is crucial to passing, so I’ll also give you tips on how to prepare for the exam, including the best study materials and techniques for maximizing your time.

The NCEES FE exam is an important step for those who want to become licensed engineers. This computer-based test is designed to assess your knowledge in various engineering subjects. The NCEES FE Reference Handbook is the only reference material that can be used during the exam. You will be provided with an electronic reference handbook during the exam that will look like below: