PE Exam

Can You Take the PE Exam with Just a Master’s Degree?

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

In this article (and video above), I discuss an interesting fact: about 30% of PE exam candidates qualify with just a Master’s degree. Surprising, isn’t it? But the real question is, can a Master’s degree alone secure the license you need? Let’s explore the answer together!

First things first—what exactly is the PE exam? The Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam is a significant milestone in the engineering world. Earning your PE license can open doors to advanced career opportunities, proving you have the knowledge and skills to handle responsible engineering tasks. If you’ve got a Master’s degree, you might feel like you’re ahead of the game. But are you really?

There’s a common misconception among aspiring engineers: having a Master’s degree automatically qualifies you for the PE exam. Spoiler alert: it’s not that simple! There are specific eligibility requirements that go beyond just having an advanced degree. Understanding these requirements is crucial because overlooking them could set you back. Let’s clear up these misconceptions and make sure you’re on the right path.

So, what are the actual requirements for taking the PE exam? While a Master’s degree can give you an edge, it’s not the only factor. You’ll also need relevant work experience—usually four years of engineering work under the supervision of a licensed PE. However, if your Master’s degree is from an accredited program, some states might allow you to substitute part of that experience, potentially reducing the requirement to just two years. But be sure to check your state’s specific rules, as they can vary widely.

Now, here’s the answer you’ve been waiting for: is a Master’s degree alone enough to take the PE exam? The short answer: it depends. If you meet the work experience requirements and everything else lines up, then yes, you could qualify. But if you’re lacking the necessary experience, your Master’s degree alone won’t be enough. It’s important to remember that while your degree is valuable, the hands-on experience you gain in your career is just as crucial. Keep this in mind as you plan your path forward!

Here are some Steps you can take to Assess Your Eligibility:

Identify Your Jurisdiction: Determine the state or country where you plan to practice engineering, as each has its own licensing requirements.
Contact the Licensing Board: Reach out to the regulatory agency responsible for PE licensure in your chosen jurisdiction to gather information on eligibility criteria.
Gather Information on Requirements: Obtain details on the specific requirements related to education, experience, and examinations from the licensing board.
Review Specific Requirements: Check for any state- or country-specific requirements, such as the amount of supervised engineering experience needed.
Seek Guidance: Use resources from the licensing board and professional organizations to guide you through the process.
Prepare Your Application: Once you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare and submit your application with all necessary documentation.
Stay Informed: After submission, follow up with the licensing board and stay updated on any changes or new regulations related to PE licensure.

Today, we’ve covered a lot about the eligibility requirements for the PE exam, especially when you have a Master’s degree. While having the degree is a great starting point, don’t overlook the importance of the required work experience. Take the time to fully understand these requirements to ensure you’re on the right track for your engineering career.

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., AEC PM, F. ASCE
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success

NCEES Approval for Foreign Engineers

August 20, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I talk with Oscar Gutierrez, Aff.M. ASCE, structural engineer at Osborn Engineering, about the steps foreign engineers can take to get their education approved by NCEES and begin their journey toward becoming licensed in the U.S.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Oscar:

How can foreign engineers determine if their education meets NCEES requirements for U.S. licensure, especially if their school lacks ABET accreditation?
After submitting all necessary documents to NCEES, what are the next steps in the credential evaluation process?
What is the process for linking your NCEES account with your state’s engineering board to apply for the FE exam?
How do you link your NCEES account to a specific state’s engineering board to initiate the FE exam application?
How does the work experience requirement for a PE license differ for foreign engineers compared to U.S. engineers, and why is it crucial to confirm this with the state board?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

Maintain Your PE License During A Prolonged Break (Without Losing It)

August 6, 2024 by Anthony Fasano, P.E. Leave a Comment

In this article (and video above), I dive into a topic that affects many engineers out there – how to maintain your PE license during a prolonged break.

Did you know that a shocking number of engineers end up losing their licenses because they didn’t take the necessary steps to keep them active? From understanding regulatory requirements to strategies for staying engaged with the engineering field, we cover it all.

The status of your PE license during an extended period would depend on the regulations and requirements of the licensing board in your jurisdiction. In many cases, licensing boards understand that professionals may need to take extended leaves for various reasons such as maternity leave, illness, or caregiving responsibilities. Some licensing boards may have provisions for maintaining your license during such leaves, while others may require you to fulfill certain obligations to keep it active.

It’s important to check with your licensing board directly to understand their policies regarding extended leaves and how they may affect your PE license. They can provide you with specific information on any requirements for maintaining your license during your absence and any steps you may need to take to ensure its continued validity. Additionally, professional organizations related to your field may also offer guidance and support in navigating such situations.

Here Are a Few Options to Consider to Maintain Your PE License:

Why You NEED a PE License for Engineering Career Success!

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

In this article (and video above), I talk with April Woods, PE, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Vice President at WSP USA, about the crucial role that a Professional Engineering (PE) license plays in an engineering career.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask April:

Could you describe your work experience in mechanical engineering and how it relates to your degree in architectural engineering?
Working on Florida’s first all-electric hospital sounds exciting; what makes this project unique?
Would you discuss the challenges you faced in getting your PE license and how you overcame them?
Can you give real examples of how your PE license has helped you in your projects or daily work?
Can you share a specific project where having your PE license made a significant impact?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Yung:

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

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

I’ll see you next week… on Pass the PE Exam

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

How a PE License Changes Everything for Engineers

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

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

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Steven:

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

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

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

About: Steven Hollabaugh, P.E., CFM

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

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

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

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

Sources:

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

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

I’ll see you next week… on Pass the PE Exam

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