Oscar Gutierrez

In this article (and video above), I talk with Oscar Gutierrez A.M ASCE, a dedicated Civil Engineer specializing in Structural Engineering, about the process of obtaining NCEES approval for foreign engineers seeking entry into the US and explore how these ties into the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam.

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Oscar:

• Can you tell us a bit more about yourself, and what field of engineering you are in?
• Can you walk us through the steps that foreign engineers need to take in order to obtain NCEES approval?
• How does NCEES approval tie into the FE Exam? Is the FE Exam the only requirement?
• Are there any specific requirements or considerations for foreign engineers taking the FE Exam compared to US graduates?
• In your opinion, how can passing the FE Exam benefit a foreign engineer seeking NCEES approval?
• Are you aware of any resources available to help foreign engineers with obtaining NCEES accreditation?
• Are there any recent updates or changes to the NCEES approval process that foreign engineers should be aware of?
• In your opinion, what are the potential benefits for foreign engineers who successfully obtain NCEES approval and pass the FE Exam in terms of career opportunities in the US engineering industry?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:

• Oscar, a seasoned civil engineer with five years of experience, has contributed to various structural projects in New York, New Jersey, and Florida, currently working with Osborne Engineering. His expertise spans retail, residential, healthcare, and other construction markets, enhancing his diverse skill set.
• To evaluate a foreign degree with NCEES, gather necessary documents like your diploma, grades, and course descriptions, then submit them through your NCEES account. After review, you’ll receive feedback within a few weeks.
• NCEES offers a PDF evaluation indicating if your degree meets U.S. standards. If there are gaps, you might need further courses and a test before reevaluation to confirm equivalency.
• FE exam prerequisites change based on location. Florida allows the exam without prior credential evaluations, whereas New York necessitates them beforehand. NCEES evaluations are broadly accepted and easily submitted through their website.
• FE exam requirements vary state by state. In Florida, you can take the exam with a valid ID but need credential evaluations for EIT certification. While Texas offers a waiver with 10 years of experience, it’s uncommon, and those with 30 years since graduation should begin with other disciplines exams and complete credential evaluations.
• In 2020, Oscar created a YouTube channel called “uningenierioenusa” to share information about credential evaluations for Spanish speakers. He’s also working on translating his handbook into English to help others navigate the process, as it can be confusing with the resources available on the NCEES website.
• Credential evaluations vary individually, even for graduates from the same university, as they’re assessed against ABET standards. Common deficiencies like chemistry or biology might be required for completeness. You can start logging your four years of experience under a licensed engineer from your first day of work, without waiting for Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
• The path to licensure varies by state, with New York requiring six years of experience for foreign degree holders and not granting EIT certificates to them. However, some states like Florida and New Jersey allow taking the FE and PE exams without prior experience, while credential evaluations can enhance job prospects by demonstrating readiness for licensure.

About: Oscar Gutierrez A.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. At Osborn, he has contributed to significant projects, including the first phase of the New York Yankees stadium and Fenway Park.

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:

Osborn Engineering
NCEES
FE Exam: What It Is, Who Can Write It, How To Pass
How to Register for the FE Exam: Step-by-Step Guide
uningenierioenusa – YouTube Channel
Connect with Oscar Gutierrez A.M ASCE, on LinkedIn

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

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 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