There are many differences between a Professional Engineer (PE) and an Engineer. While both titles may refer to someone who designs and executes engineering projects, there are several key distinctions. A PE has completed a rigorous licensing process that ensures they have the necessary knowledge and experience to provide safe and effective engineering services. In contrast, anyone can call themselves an engineer without any formal training or certification. The “Professional Engineer” title is the highest engineering licensing level in the United States. It is awarded only to those who have completed a rigorous licensing process that ensures they have the necessary knowledge and experience to provide safe and effective engineering services. P.E. Licensure is regulated by the state in which they are licensed, and a P.E. license must be renewed annually in most states.
Engineer
A professional engineer or engineer in training is a qualified civil engineer who has been given the opportunity to take on more responsibilities and/or work under the supervision of an experienced civil engineer. A person may become a professional engineer by being granted a professional engineering degree, attending an accredited school of engineering and passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam.
(EIT) Engineer In Training
An Engineer in Training (EIT) is a person who has been accepted into an engineering program at a college or university, but who is not yet licensed as a professional engineer. The addition of the final “E” to the title is done to signify that a person in training is an engineer in training. This is different from formal certification, which refers to a professional license to work as an engineer. The following is a list of some of the branches of engineering and their sub-branches in which EITs are trained:
- Structural
- Environmental
- Waste Management
- Process/Mechanical
- Water Resources
- Water Treatment
- Electrical
- Earthwork/Geotechnical
Licensed Professional Engineer (PE)
There are 4 steps to become a licensed Professional Engineer:
- Graduate from an ABET-accredited engineering program.
- Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
- Work as an engineer for four years.
- Pass the Professional Engineering (PE) exam (you cannot take the PE exam without first passing the FE exam).
Why Is It Important to Have a Licensed PE Working on Your Project?
Licensed PEs are professionals who are trained to do everything from design and construction of a project, through inspection and testing, as well as repair or maintenance. Having this license help differential between the standard level of care you will receive on your project.