Roadmap to Becoming a Professional Engineer (PE)
There is a basic, four step roadmap to becoming a Professional Engineer (PE).
Step one is education. All PE license holders start with a bachelors degree. These degrees should be accredited and accepted by your state and local licensing board. Here in Missouri and Kansas, programs should be accredited by Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET (EAC/ ABET).
Step two is the FE exam. FE stands for Fundamentals of Engineering, and it is an exam to test your academic knowledge associated with engineering. This exam is typically taken your senior year of college or soon after graduation. Once you pass your FE exam, you get the title of Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern.
Step three is work experience. While an EIT, you will work with Professional Engineers to gain work experience and real-world knowledge. You are typically required to work for four years as an EIT.
Step four is the PE exam. Professional Engineer candidates take the exam on principles and practice of engineering that is more about practical knowledge of engineering. Your work experience over the previous four years should give you the practical knowledge needed to pass your PE exam.
That’s it! Once you pass your final exam, you are now eligible to be licensed as a professional engineer. This allows you to stamp and sign off on plans and documents as a professional engineer!
Kaw Valley Engineering supports our staff and their licensing goals. If you are looking for a company to give you the experience and support you need to obtain your PE license, be sure to contact our recruiter by clicking here.