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Anthony Fasano

PASS the PE Exam in 2025 with These 5 Daily Habits

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In this article (and video above), I dive into five simple yet powerful daily habits that can revolutionize your study routine and set you on the path to success. These daily habits aren’t just about studying harder—they’re about studying smarter, staying consistent, and building momentum toward acing the PE Exam in 2025.

The Challenges of Preparing for the PE Exam

Many aspiring engineers struggle with the PE exam due to a lack of effective study strategies and poor time management, leading to anxiety and low confidence. It’s a vicious cycle that’s hard to break, but I believe that with a clear plan and determination, anyone can overcome these obstacles. The problem is that most of us get caught up in the day-to-day grind, and before we know it, weeks or even months have passed without making significant progress. We feel like we’re stuck, and the exam date seems to be getting closer and closer. This sense of uncertainty can be overwhelming, and it’s no wonder that so many aspiring engineers give up on their dreams of becoming a licensed professional engineer.

Managing Time Effectively

In addition to the time management issues, many of us also struggle with the sheer volume of material that needs to be covered. The PE exam is not just about memorizing formulas and equations; it requires a deep understanding of complex concepts and the ability to apply them to real-world scenarios. This can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not familiar with the exam format or the type of questions that will be asked. As a result, many aspiring engineers feel like they’re facing an uphill battle, and the lack of confidence can be crippling.

Don’t worry—you’re not alone on this journey. Today, I’m excited to share the specific daily habits that were instrumental in keeping me on track and making measurable progress toward passing the PE exam in 2025. These habits are designed to be both straightforward and effective, with the flexibility to adapt to your individual learning style and schedule. By integrating them into your routine, you can tackle the challenges that may have hindered your progress and confidently move closer to your ultimate goal of becoming a licensed professional engineer.

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Mastering Conic Sections Made EASY for the FE Exam!

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In this article (and video above), we tackle a conic sections problem step by step, helping you determine the center of the curve and identify its type. By the end of this article, you’ll have the tools and confidence to handle similar questions with ease.

Question:

In this question, we are presented with the general equation of a conic section, and our job can be split up into two objectives: First, we need to determine the center of the conic section and secondly, we must identify the type of conic section it represents. Before diving into the solution, let’s take a moment to review some essential concepts that will help us approach this problem effectively.

Determine the center of the conic section described by the following general equation, and identify the type of conic section it represents:

9𝑥2 + 16𝑦2 − 54𝑥 + 64𝑦 = 311

Problem Context: Conic Sections

We start off by looking at what ‘conic sections’ refers to. This can be defined as any curve formed by the intersection of a plane with a right circular cone, as illustrated here. The type of curve—whether it’s an ellipse, parabola, circle, or hyperbola—depends on the angle at which the plane intersects the cone. Mathematically, we can distinguish between the different curves created by this intersecting plane using two key angles.

The first angle, denoted as θ (theta) in the FE Handbook, represents the angle between the intersecting plane and the vertical axis of the cone. The second angle, φ (phi), is the vertex angle, measured between the vertical axis of the cone, and its slanted outer surface. If these two angles are known, we can calculate what is referred to as the eccentricity of the conic sections using the formula:

Conic Sections

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Why the Combined Stress Formula is the BEST Way to Ace Your FE Exam!

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In this article (and video above), we guide you through the Combined Stress Formula for a cantilevered beam, a valuable skill that will enhance your FE Exam prep and strengthen your understanding of essential engineering concepts.

Question:

In this scenario, we have a 300 mm cantilevered beam with a 20 mm x 20 mm square cross-section. One end of the beam is securely fixed, while the other end carries two applied loads: an axial force Fx = 200 N and a perpendicular force Fy = 150 N. Our goal is to determine the maximum combined stress produced by these forces at the base of the beam, focusing specifically on point A.

Combined Stress Formula

Problem Context: Combined Stresses

Before we jump into the question, let’s set the stage by exploring the concept of combined stress. This combined stress state occurs when an object experiences different kinds of loads at the same time. For instance, a beam subject to both axial and bending forces will develop a combination of these induced stresses throughout its structure. In general, there are five key stress types you should be familiar with to be able to solve these kinds of problems, and they are listed here as:

  • Axial stress
  • Bending stress
  • Shear stress
  • Torsional stress
  • Thermal stress

Combined Stress Formula

We’ll start off with a quick explanation of each stress case, starting off with axial stress.

Axial Stress

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Boost Your Engineering Salary by 15%! Here’s How Continuing Education Helps

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In this article (and video above), I talk about the world of continuing education for engineers. In an industry that’s constantly evolving, staying ahead of the curve is more important than ever. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, continuing education can play a vital role in your professional journey, and when you achieve your PE license, continuing education will be required most likely, depending on your state of licensure.

Getting your PE license opens doors to greater career opportunities, but that’s just the beginning. Continuing education is not only a requirement to maintain your license in most states, but it’s also critical for your ongoing growth as an engineer. Whether you’re preparing for the PE exam or already licensed, here’s why investing in continuing education matters.

Let’s start by taking a look at the types of Continuing Education for Engineers

There are various avenues for continuing education, all of which can help keep you competitive and relevant in the industry:

Formal Courses:

These include bachelor’s, master’s degree programs, or specialized certificate programs offered by universities or online platforms. For PE candidates, taking courses related to your discipline can help reinforce critical concepts and provide exam preparation support.

Professional Development Programs:

Workshops, seminars, and conferences offered by engineering organizations not only help you stay current with industry trends but also provide networking opportunities with other professionals.

Independent Learning:

Reading technical journals, participating in webinars, or engaging in mentorship programs are other ways to enhance your skills and knowledge base—whether for passing the PE exam or staying updated post-licensure.

Benefits of Continuing Education

Now, let’s explore the six key benefits of continuing education for engineers, both before and after obtaining your PE license:

Maintaining Professional Status:

For licensed engineers, accumulating continuing education hours or professional development hours (also known as PDHs) is often required to renew your license. Even while preparing for the PE exam, learning about these requirements early ensures you’re ready for this professional responsibility.

Boosting Earning Potential:

More education typically translates to higher earning potential. Even as a PE candidate, furthering your education can improve your exam performance and job prospects post-licensure. According to PayScale data, engineers with advanced degrees or specialized certifications can significantly increase their salaries.

Advancing Professional Growth:

The engineering field is always evolving. Continuing education ensures you stay updated on the latest technologies and methodologies, helping you excel in your career, whether you’re studying for the PE exam or growing in your role as a licensed engineer.

Specialization Opportunities:

Through continuing education, you can deepen your expertise in specialized areas such as structural, transportation, or environmental engineering. For PE candidates, learning about these subfields can also help you choose your area of focus for the exam and in your career.

Networking and Mentorship:

Continuing education events, including conferences and seminars, provide valuable networking opportunities. Building connections with other engineers—especially licensed PEs—can offer you support during exam preparation and throughout your professional journey.

Enhanced Job Engagement:

Staying engaged at work is important for long-term career satisfaction. Continuing education gives you the chance to explore new concepts and skills, keeping you motivated and mentally stimulated whether you’re preparing for the PE exam or looking to take on new challenges as a licensed engineer.

By investing in continuing education throughout your engineering career—both before and after earning your PE license—you’re not only ensuring your compliance with professional requirements, but also positioning yourself for continued growth and success in the field.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

PPIPPI 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

Juggling Multiple Engineering Licenses? Here’s How to Stay Compliant

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In this article (and video above), I talk about how to stay compliant when juggling multiple engineering licenses, no matter where you are.

If you’re juggling licenses across different states, you know it can be a real challenge. Each state has its own requirements, renewal dates, and even continuing education credits. With so much to keep track of, it’s easy to see why many engineers find themselves overwhelmed. But don’t worry, I’m here to share some tips that will help you stay organized and compliant!

One of the biggest challenges engineers face is varying renewal dates. It can feel like a full-time job just remembering when to renew what! And let’s not even get started on the differences in state requirements; some states want more continuing education than others. Plus, if you happen to miss a deadline, you could face penalties or even lose your license. It’s a lot to handle! But if you take a step back and implement some strategies, it doesn’t have to be so daunting.

Alright, here’s where we get into the good stuff.

First, tracking deadlines is key. I recommend setting up a dedicated calendar—digital or physical—where you can map out all your renewal dates and deadlines. Mark them clearly and check them regularly.

Next, leverage technology! There are plenty of apps and software out there specifically designed for license management. These tools can send you reminders and alerts so you never miss a thing.

Make sure to stay informed! Follow your state’s engineering board on social media or sign up for their newsletters. This way, you’ll always be in the loop about any changes in regulations.

Now, here’s a key insight that can really simplify your life: Use a centralized tracking system for all your licenses. Whether it’s a spreadsheet or a dedicated software, having everything in one place can save you a ton of headaches. You can see at a glance where each license stands, what’s due, and what you need to focus on next. Trust me, once you get this system in place, managing your licenses becomes so much easier!

To wrap things up, let’s quickly recap those essential tips: First, track your deadlines in a dedicated calendar. Second, leverage technology to keep you organized. Third, stay informed about state regulations. And finally, use a centralized system to manage everything. Keeping all this in check is crucial for maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties, which is why these strategies are so important! By understanding and planning for each state’s continuing education requirements, you can maintain your licenses, continue your professional development, and focus on what you do best—engineering.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI

PPIPPI 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

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

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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:

  1. Identify Your Jurisdiction: Determine the state or country where you plan to practice engineering, as each has its own licensing requirements.
  2. Contact the Licensing Board: Reach out to the regulatory agency responsible for PE licensure in your chosen jurisdiction to gather information on eligibility criteria.
  3. Gather Information on Requirements: Obtain details on the specific requirements related to education, experience, and examinations from the licensing board.
  4. Review Specific Requirements: Check for any state- or country-specific requirements, such as the amount of supervised engineering experience needed.
  5. Seek Guidance: Use resources from the licensing board and professional organizations to guide you through the process.
  6. Prepare Your Application: Once you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare and submit your application with all necessary documentation.
  7. 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

PPIPPI 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

Mastering the Fundamentals of Engineering Ethics

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In this article (and video above), I guide you through the essential topics outlined in the Ethics section of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) reference handbook, equipping you with the knowledge and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of engineering ethics and ethical conduct in the engineering profession. Together, we’ll explore the principles that underpin ethical decision-making, ensuring that you’re well-prepared to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is a computer-based test (CBT) administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) that most engineers must pass in order to obtain their professional licenses. The FE exam covers a broad range of engineering topics, including engineering ethics.

What is Engineering Ethics?

Engineering ethics are the moral codes that guide the actions and decisions of our everyday lives with one another. In the world of engineering, ethical decisions are pivotal in ensuring the safety, well-being, and welfare of the public. These ethical decisions range from a variety of virtues such as integrity, honesty, and objectivity, which engineers must uphold in their professional lives. For instance, when an engineer works on a critical infrastructure project such as a bridge, they have a moral duty to prioritize public safety over any personal or financial gain.

Here are the essential topics in the Ethics section covered in the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) reference handbook:

1. Model Rules, Section 240.15 Rules of Professional Conduct

This section outlines the principles aimed at safeguarding the public’s health, safety, and welfare, along with upholding integrity and rigorous standards in engineering and surveying practices.

Licensed professionals are required to give paramount importance to public welfare, certify documents in compliance with established norms, and report to authorities if their professional discretion is disregarded in a manner that jeopardizes public safety (NCEES, 2022, 4). Additionally, they are expected to furnish comprehensive and unbiased information in professional documents and offer professional judgments grounded in factual expertise and proficient assessment.

2. The Model Law in Section 110.20

In this section, it provides definitions related to the practice of engineering and surveying. Clarifying the terms used in the Act, including various professional titles and statuses (NCEES, 2022, 12).

Engineer: A person possessing the qualifications to engage in engineering practice, established through education, training, and professional experience.

Professional Engineer: An individual duly licensed in a specific engineering discipline or branch.

Retired Professional Engineer: A licensed professional engineer who has elected not to renew their license.

Engineer Intern: A person certified by the board.

Practice of Engineering: Activities necessitating engineering expertise and experience, with potential impacts on public health, safety, and welfare. This includes tasks such as planning, designing, coordination, and technical submissions.

3. The Model Law in Section 130.10

Here, it outlines the requirements for licensure as a professional engineer or surveyor. Eligibility includes good character, meeting education and experience criteria, passing exams, and submitting references.

For engineers, there are stages: Engineer Intern certification and licensure as a Professional Engineer. Education, examination, and experience requirements must be met. Licensure by comity is possible for qualified applicants. The section also references surveying requirements. These criteria ensure that licensed professionals meet the necessary standards for practice (NCEES, 2022, 13).

4. The Model Law in Section 150.10

Detailing grounds for disciplinary action against licensees and interns, the board has the authority to suspend, revoke, fine, or refuse to issue or renew a license or certification for various reasons. These include fraud, negligence, misconduct, criminal convictions, failure to comply with the law or regulations, discipline by other jurisdictions, providing false information, aiding violations, practicing outside of competence, unethical conduct, substance abuse, and more (NCEES, 2022, 14-15).

The board may also impose fines based on factors such as deterrence, severity of the violation, risk to the public, economic benefits gained, and consistency with past fines. These provisions ensure accountability and protection of the public in the engineering and surveying professions.

5. The Model Law in Section 150.30

This section outlines grounds for disciplinary action against unlicensed individuals in the field of engineering and surveying. The board has the authority to fine and recover costs from unlicensed individuals who engage in the practice of engineering or surveying without proper licensure, use restricted professional terms, present false credentials, commit fraud, impersonate licensees, or use expired or nonexistent licenses. The fine for each offense cannot exceed a specified amount, and each day of continued violation may be considered a separate offense (NCEES, 2022, 15).

Factors such as deterrence, circumstances of the violation, risk to the public, economic benefits gained, public interest, and consistency with past fines may be taken into account when determining the fine amount. The aim of these provisions is to regulate and protect the public from unlicensed individuals practicing in the engineering and surveying domains.

6. The Model Law in Section 160.10

It establishes the general requirements for obtaining a certificate of authorization for firms practicing or offering engineering or surveying services. Firms engaging in these activities must obtain a certificate of authorization from the board, except in cases where the firm performs engineering or surveying exclusively for itself, its parent company, or its subsidiary (NCEES, 2022, 15-16).

The secretary of state is prohibited from accepting organizational papers or issuing certificates to firms that include the words “engineer,” “engineering,” “surveyor,” “surveying,” or related variations in their objectives or name unless the board has issued a certificate of authorization or an eligibility letter. Additionally, the secretary of state cannot authorize trade names, trademarks, or service marks that contain these restricted words, except for licensees and firms with valid certificates of authorization.

These provisions are in place to ensure that proper regulation and control are used among professional titles and marks in the engineering and surveying fields.

7. The Model Law in Section 160.70

It outlines the grounds for disciplinary action against firms holding a certificate of authorization. The board is empowered to suspend, revoke, fine, or refuse to issue, restore, or renew a certificate of authorization for various violations.

These violations include fraud, negligence, incompetence, misconduct, criminal convictions, failure to comply with the law or board regulations, discipline by other jurisdictions, false statements, aiding in violations, and unethical conduct. Firms may also be fined for each offense, with the amount determined by the board based on factors such as deterrence, severity, and public interest. Additionally, the board can impose sanctions on firms when their managing agents or officers are found guilty of violating the law or regulations, including probation, fines, reprimand, or revocation of the certificate of authorization (NCEES, 2022, 16).

Here’s an example:

Scenario: Mario is a licensed engineer working for a construction firm. She is responsible for overseeing the construction of a high-rise building. During the construction process, Sarah becomes aware of a significant structural defect that could potentially compromise the safety of the building. She knows that immediate action is required to rectify the issue.

Which of the following actions aligns with the licensee’s obligation to the public?

  1. A) Mario ignores the structural defect as it may cause delays and additional costs to the project.
  2. B) Mario informs her employer and takes appropriate measures to address the structural defect promptly.
  3. C) Mario conceals the defect to avoid damaging the reputation of her firm.
  4. D) Mario waits until the project is completed and then anonymously reports the defect to the local authorities.

Correct answer is letter: B) Mario informs her employer and takes appropriate measures to address the structural defect promptly.

According to the Model Rules of Professional Conduct, licensees have a primary responsibility to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of the public. In this scenario, Sarah’s discovery of a significant structural defect poses a potential risk to the safety of the building and its occupants. To fulfill her obligation to the public, Sarah should promptly inform her employer and take appropriate actions to address the defect. By doing so, she prioritizes public safety over personal concerns and ensures that necessary measures are taken to rectify the issue.

As I conclude, it’s imperative to recognize the vital role of regulatory frameworks in maintaining integrity and professionalism in engineering and surveying. Model rules set standards and guide disciplinary actions against violations like fraud and unethical conduct, prioritizing public interest protection. Disciplinary measures, including suspension and fines, stress the importance of engineering ethics compliance for both individuals and firms. Upholding these rules fortifies trust and reliability in engineering and surveying, ensuring societal well-being.

About Matthew Douglas

FE Exam PreparationMatthew 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 PPI

PPIPPI 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 FE Exam

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

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

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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:

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Leveraging AI for the FE Exam: A GAME CHANGER

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In this article (and video above), I explain how leveraging AI can help you to create personalized study plans, receive instant feedback on practice questions, and benefit from adaptive learning techniques tailored to your individual strengths and weaknesses.

First, let’s quickly recap what the FE exam is all about. The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is a comprehensive test that evaluates your knowledge in various engineering disciplines. It’s a crucial step towards becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the United States. The exam covers a wide range of topics, including mathematics, ethics, engineering economics, and more.

Before we proceed, it’s essential to note that while AI like ChatGPT or Gemini is incredibly helpful, it’s not a magic wand. It’s a tool that complements your hard work and dedication. For the purpose of this post, I will refer to ChatGPT, however there are several free AI programs that you can choose from. 

Here’s how you can leverage AI in your FE exam studying.

Breaking Down the FE Exam with AI

Let’s break it down into manageable chunks with AI assistance:

  • Study Timeline: Ask ChatGPT to estimate how long it might take you to study based on your background and the FE specifications for your discipline.
  • Decoding Topics: If a topic is unclear, ask ChatGPT to explain it in simple terms and provide examples relevant to the FE.
  • Mind Mapping: Have ChatGPT generate a mind map for a specific FE section. This visualizes the topics and creates a roadmap for your studying.

Crafting Your Perfect Study Schedule

Start by:

  • Customizing Your Schedule: Describe your commitments such as work, classes, and personal obligations to ChatGPT. This information will serve as the foundation for your personalized study plan.
  • Be Flexible: Tell ChatGPT where you have flexibility and where you don’t. It’ll make suggestions based on your constraints.
  • Printable Format: Ask ChatGPT to summarize your schedule in an easy-to-print, visually appealing format so you can post it for motivation.

Active Recall for the Win

Engaging in active recall is a vital strategy for effective learning. Here’s how you can utilize ChatGPT to create impactful flashcards:

  • Targeted Questions: Ask ChatGPT to generate flashcards on a specific topic, focusing on conceptual understanding. These targeted questions will enhance your retention and comprehension of key concepts.
  • Double Check: Always verify ChatGPT’s answers by cross-checking with reliable sources. You can also ask ChatGPT to provide detailed explanations of its reasoning, aiding in the verification process and ensuring accuracy in your study materials.

Solidifying Your Foundation

Building a strong foundation is crucial, and AI can assist in reinforcing your fundamentals. For example:

  • Personalized Practice: Ask ChatGPT to give you practice problems on topics where you feel less confident.
  • Step-by-Step Solutions: Have ChatGPT provide guided, step-by-step explanations of the problems to reinforce your understanding.

The Challenges of AI

While it offers valuable benefits, it’s essential to understand its limitations:

  • ChatGPT is a powerful tool but not a magical solution that replaces your efforts. Success still hinges on your dedication and hard work.
  • ChatGPT excels in providing clear explanations, sparking creative ideas, and customizing study plans to your needs. Use these strengths to enhance your learning experience.
  • Always verify ChatGPT’s answers, especially for highly technical content. It’s a smart practice to cross-reference information from reliable sources.
  • Think of ChatGPT as a supportive study partner. It complements your learning journey by offering insights and guidance, but it shouldn’t replace active learning and critical thinking.

Leveraging AI in your FE exam preparation strategy can lead to increased efficiency, effectiveness, and confidence when tackling the exam. It’s a game changer that can help you reach your full potential as an engineer. I encourage you to explore AI tools for your FE exam preparation.

This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI, A Kaplan Company:

PPIPPI 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 week’s FE Exam article helpful. In upcoming articles, I will answer more FE Exam questions and run through more practice problems. We publish videos bi-weekly on our Pass the FE Exam YouTube Channel.  Be sure to visit our page here and click the subscribe button as you’ll get expert tips and tricks – to ensure your best success – that you can’t get anywhere else. Believe me, you won’t want to miss a single video.

Lastly, I encourage you to ask questions in the comments of the videos or here 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

How to Register for the FE Exam (Updated 2024)

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In this article (and the video above), I discuss “How to Register for the FE Exam,” now updated for 2024. I walk you through the process of creating an account, checking eligibility, paying fees, and scheduling your exam. Keep reading to make sure your registration for the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam goes smoothly and leads to success!

The FE exam is generally your first step in the process of becoming a licensed professional engineer (P.E.). The exam is administered via computer throughout the year at Pearson VUE test centers and lasts for 5 hours and 20 minutes. It consists of 110 multiple-choice questions covering various topics from your engineering degree. So, let’s break down everything you need to know to ace this exam!

1 – Overview of the FE Exam:

The FE exam is generally your first step in the process of becoming a licensed professional engineer (P.E.). The exam is administered via computer throughout the year at Pearson VUE test centers and lasts for 5 hours and 20 minutes. It consists of 110 multiple-choice questions covering various topics from your engineering degree. So, let’s break down everything you need to know to ace this exam!

2 – Important Covid-Related Testing Information ( Updated: 31 March, 2024 )

As per the PPC’s: We continue to monitor COVID-19 and adjust Pearson VUE test center operations as needed. At present, company-owned Pearson Professional Centers (PPCs) do not require the wearing of face masks, proof of vaccination, or other unique entry requirements unless mandated by local regulations.

3 – Exam Dates and Scheduling:

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