In this article (and video above), I talk with Devon Baummer, a licensed professional engineer specializing in aviation at Mead & Hunt, about aviation certifications like the AAE and explore strategic ways to select the right PE exam segment tailored to your career in aviation.
Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Devon :
- Since many civil engineers are interested in aviation and licensing, could you explain how one should approach the exam, specifically which segments to choose when aiming to enter aviation?
- Is it correct that in the state where one is licensed, a specific aviation designation is not required to practice, provided they ethically understand the field?
- Is it accurate that civil engineers interested in aviation can choose any exam segment based on state requirements, but must practice within their knowledge to avoid ethical violations and public safety risks?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:
- For civil engineers aiming to specialize in aviation, focusing on the transportation and construction segments of the licensing exam is advisable. These segments align closely with tasks in aviation infrastructure, such as runway design, which incorporates principles of transportation engineering with unique requirements specific to aviation.
- In states where a civil engineer is licensed, a specific aviation designation is not required for practice, provided there is an ethical understanding of the field. Civil engineers can demonstrate specialized knowledge in aviation through credentials like the Certified Member designation from the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), which, though less stringent than the Professional Engineer (PE) license, offers valuable recognition for those focused on airport projects.
- Civil engineers interested in aviation are free to choose any exam segment based on state regulations, but must ensure they practice within their area of expertise to avoid ethical violations and public safety risks. Opting for segments that correlate with their professional focus, such as transportation for aviation, is crucial for maintaining the requisite knowledge and skills.
About Devon Baummer, PE, ENV SP
Devon is an aviation civil engineer and project manager at Mead and Hunt’s San Diego Office. He is experienced in airport civil design, grant funding, and construction administration. His projects have included commercial and general aviation airports in Colorado, Utah, and California. Devon is a licensed civil engineer in Colorado and Utah.
Sources:
Mead & Hunt
AAAE (American Association of Airport Executives)
Connect with Devon Baummer, PE, ENV SP, on LinkedIn
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
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