Videos

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:

Engineering Career Success: Is The PE License the Missing Piece?

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

In this article (and video above), I talk with Joanna Mason, PE, a project manager at Schnabel Foundation Company, about how the Professional Engineer (PE) license has played a pivotal role in shaping her career success in engineering construction.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Joanna:

How has your PE license helped you obtain career success in construction engineering?
Do you feel like having a PE license gives you more credibility with clients and other professionals?
Do you think it is critical for construction engineers to get a PE license, even if they don’t think they need it right now?

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:

PE Exam Practice Questions: Estimating Concrete for Canal Lining

June 20, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), we tackle a real-world scenario that could show up on the PE exam: Estimating concrete quantity for a canal lining. This question was created and solved by Engineer in training, Enrique Ivers, LEED Green Associate.

Question:

Construction documents call for a 500-foot-long canal, shown below, to be lined with 6” of concrete for erosion control. A 5% allowance is made for waste and over-excavation. How many cubic yards of concrete should be ordered?

Explanation:

This problem has several steps and potential snags. Let’s think about it and then go through each one:

1) We need to consider the cross-sectional area of the concrete at the base of the canal, the left leg, and the right leg.

2) We then must consider the distance the canal travels to find the volume.

3) Finally, we have to consider our waste factor.

The area of the left and right legs are equal. We’re given the height and told the slope of the legs is 1:1.

To find the hypotenuse, or the actual dimension of the leg, we must find the width:

Now we need to find the hypotenuse:

We can now find the cross-sectional area of the lining:

Next we calculate the volume of the lining:

The canal is 500 ft long, and we’ve calculated the cross sectional area above.

V=Area x Length

We must convert from cubic feet to cubic yards; there are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard:

It would be tempting to take this 372.96cy and select answer B. After all, it is very close to 373cy, and the PE will expect us to round answers in this way.

BUT, don’t forget to take into account the whole problem. We’re told there’s a 5% waste factor.

Answer:

The correct answer is C.

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… on Pass the PE Exam

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

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:

Achieving The Right Mindset for Your PE Exam

June 6, 2023 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Sean Spromberg, PE, a licensed professional engineer and team leader at MSA Professional Services, who shares a remarkable philosophy on achieving the right mindset to alleviate the immense stress associated with PE Exam preparation.

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

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

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

Professional Engineering License vs. Project Management Certification

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

In this article (and video above), I explain the key differences between a PE license and a PMP certification to help you decide which one is right for you.

PMP Certification

PMP certification refers to the process of obtaining a certification that verifies an individual’s competency and expertise in project management. Project management certification programs are designed to provide professionals with the skills and knowledge required to successfully plan, execute, and manage projects in a variety of industries. These certifications are offered by various organizations such as the Project Management Institute (PMI), the International Project Management Association (IPMA), and the Association for Project Management (APM). It usually involves meeting specific education and experience requirements, passing an exam, and adhering to a code of ethics.

If you’re interested in leading projects and managing teams, a PMP Certification can be a great way to demonstrate your skills in this area. Project managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They need to be able to coordinate resources, manage budgets, and communicate effectively with stakeholders and a PMP Certification can be particularly useful and help to enhance a project manager’s credibility, increase job opportunities, and improve their earning potential. One of the more noteworthy or popular PMP certifications is the Project Management Professional, also known as the PMP, from the Project Management Institute.

PE License

However, if you’re more interested in the technical aspects of engineering, the PE License might be a better fit for you. The PE license, or Professional Engineering license, is a certification granted to engineers who have met the educational, experience, and examination requirements set by their state’s licensing board. This license is a legal requirement for engineers who offer their services directly to the public or who work on projects that require the approval of a licensed engineer.

To become a licensed Professional Engineer, an individual must typically hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an accredited program, pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, work for a certain number of years under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer, and pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam, also known as the PE Exam. The PE exam is a comprehensive test that covers a wide range of engineering topics and is administered by each state’s licensing board.

Obtaining a PE license demonstrates that an engineer has the education, experience, and knowledge required to practice engineering in a safe, ethical, and competent manner. It is a mark of professional achievement that can open up new career opportunities and enhance an engineer’s earning potential.

In summary, the PE License and PMP Certification are both important credentials for professionals in the engineering and construction industry. If you’re interested in technical engineering work, the PE License might be the right fit for you. If you’re interested in leading projects and managing teams, the PMP Certification can be a great way to demonstrate your skills. There are also many engineers to pursue and achieve both.

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 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

Supercharge Your Electrical Engineering Career By Doing This…

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

In this article (and video above), I talk to Eric Cole, P.E, an electrical engineer who started his career with Stanley in 2017, and has since gone on to work in the Power Delivery market. Eric shares his journey of preparing for and passing the PE Exam, as well as offer advice and insights, for others thinking about taking this important step to supercharge their electrical engineering career.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Eric:

How did your background in electrical engineering from Iowa State prepare you for taking the PE Exam?
As someone who works in the Power Delivery market, what were some of the specific challenges you faced while studying for the PE Exam?
What were some of the most helpful resources or study materials that you used while preparing for the exam?
Can you walk us through your study schedule and routine leading up to the exam? How did you balance work, personal life, and studying?
As someone who is involved in community activities like Toastmasters and MATHCOUNTS, how did these experiences help you in your preparation for the PE Exam?
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting to prepare for the PE Exam?
Finally, now that you’ve passed the PE Exam, what are your future career aspirations and how do you see this certification helping you achieve those goals?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

College provides a foundational knowledge and teaches problem-solving skills that are crucial for success in the engineering world. It prepares individuals to think critically and approach challenges with confidence. Additionally, the experience of taking exams and learning how to study effectively in college can be helpful in preparing for professional exams such as the PE.
While working in the power delivery market and taking the power engineering exam helped in some ways, there were still some topics that were challenging because they were not encountered in day-to-day work. Refreshing on those topics was necessary for success on the exam.
The most helpful study materials for the PE exam were the practice exam provided by the NCEES website, spending time with the notes provided, and practicing exam problems from a book. The online format of the exam made it important to know the notes provided since no personal notes were allowed.
Planning ahead and setting a specific study schedule, including regular study nights and a final weekend review session, can be helpful in preparing for the PE exam. It’s also useful to simulate the exam experience by taking practice exams in one sitting to get a feel for the length and intensity of the actual exam.
It’s important to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses early on in the studying process. By taking a practice exam, this individual was able to identify areas that needed more focus, such as economics. As the exam date approached, they adjusted their study schedule to spend more time on the areas that needed improvement. This approach helped them to better prepare and perform well on the exam.
Being involved in the community and having other activities helps with time management and motivation to study for the exam. Having a full schedule can also help prioritize and make time for studying, rather than pushing it off to a later time.
If you have an engineering degree and have already passed the FE exam, you have already proven that you have the capability to pass the PE exam with the right amount of effort and dedication. However, committing to studying for the exam and finding motivation can be a challenge, but investing time and money in it can serve as a motivating factor. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide if they want to pursue the exam and make the necessary effort to succeed.
Obtaining a PE license allows licensed engineers to sign off on engineering work, which is valuable for consultants who sell engineering work. This responsibility can be intimidating, but it is also rewarding as it allows engineers to see their projects get built and to showcase their expertise through their professional portfolio.

Sources

NCEES Practice Exams
Toastmasters International
MATCHCOUNTS
Connect with Eric 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