PE Exam Alert: Project Management Takes Center Stage in 2025!

Big changes are on the horizon for the PE exam in 2025 — and you need to be ready. Project management is moving into the spotlight, and mastering it will be critical to your success.

In this article (and video above), I break down exactly what this new emphasis means for you as a PE candidate, and share expert insights and actionable tips to help you tackle it with confidence.

Whether you’re an experienced engineer or just beginning your journey, this is a must-watch if you’re serious about passing the PE exam in 2025.

The engineering landscape is evolving, and the Professional Engineer (PE) exam is changing too. As of 2025, project management is taking center stage, becoming a crucial component that aspiring engineers must master. This shift reflects the growing importance of project management skills in the engineering field, where professionals are expected to lead projects efficiently and effectively.

Engineers often find themselves well-versed in technical skills but might struggle with the project management aspects. The challenges are real – from understanding the project lifecycle to managing resources and timelines effectively. Many might be thinking, “I’m strong in my technical field, but project management? That’s a whole different ball game.” And they’re right; it does require a different set of skills. The potential gaps in knowledge can be significant, especially for those who haven’t had extensive experience in managing projects.

Programs like EMI’s AEC Project Management Certification are specifically designed to equip engineering professionals with the essential project management skills they often don’t receive through traditional technical education.

Adapting to this new exam format will require a strategic approach to learning and preparation. It’s not just about knowing the concepts; it’s about applying them in real-world scenarios. The exam will test your ability to plan, execute, monitor, and close projects effectively. This means being familiar with project management frameworks and having the skills to lead a team through a project’s lifecycle.

Understanding the project management lifecycle is crucial. It starts with planning, where you define the project scope, goals, and deliverables. Then comes execution, where plans are put into action. Monitoring and controlling are critical as well; this is where you track the project’s progress and make adjustments as needed. Finally, closing a project involves completing all deliverables and documenting the project’s success.

To excel in the project management part of the PE exam, it’s essential to grasp these key principles. Industry experts emphasize the importance of hands-on experience and practical knowledge. They suggest focusing on case studies and real-world examples to understand how project management principles are applied in engineering projects. Success stories from those who have taken the exam show that thorough preparation and a deep understanding of project management concepts are key to acing this part of the exam.

Mastering project management is not just about passing the PE exam; it’s a skill that can significantly enhance your career opportunities. As an engineer, being able to manage projects effectively makes you a more valuable asset to your team and organization. It opens up leadership roles and the chance to lead projects that make a real impact.

Quick Takeaway

So, to summarize…

✅ The 2025 PE exam will place major emphasis on project management — it’s no longer just about technical knowledge.

✅ Engineers must master the project lifecycle: planning, execution, monitoring, and closing.

✅ Programs like the AEC Project Management Certification can help you build the real-world skills needed to pass the exam and accelerate your career.

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