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:
- Foreign engineers must first verify if their school is ABET accredited to ensure their education is accepted for U.S. licensure. If not, they will need to follow the steps to obtain an equivalency evaluation through NCEES.
- After your education is evaluated, NCEES will inform you if it’s equivalent to U.S. standards. If it’s not, they’ll provide a list of courses you need to complete at a U.S. college or university to meet the requirements for licensure.
- After creating an account with NCEES for credential evaluation, foreign engineers must also create an account with the state engineering board where they plan to get licensed. This allows the state board to access and review the credentials, which is essential for moving forward with the FE exam process.
- After creating an account with NCEES for credential evaluation, foreign engineers must also create an account with the state engineering board where they plan to get licensed. This allows the state board to access and review the credentials, which is essential for moving forward with the FE exam process.
- After passing the FE exam, foreign engineers must complete a specific number of years of work experience, which varies by state, before applying for the PE exam. Once they pass the PE exam, they can obtain their professional engineering license in the U.S.
About Oscar Gutierrez, Aff.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.
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:
Osborne Engineering
NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying)
ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology)
NCES (National Center for Education Statistics)
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
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