Looking for PE License Advice

I graduated college in May 21, 2016. I have worked at my job as a mechanical engineer for two years as of May 31, 2018. I passed the FE exam on August 28, 2017. My job says there is no need to have an EIT and it holds no value at the company. I have been told that the company will only pay for me to get a master’s degree in engineering management; however, I am just paying for it myself because of how uncertain I am the company can help me with obtaining my PE license. I work in the federal government in the integrated logistics department and do not feel I do enough engineering. I have tried to find a professional engineer within the company but there are none. With my EIT in New Jersey and my job in Pennsylvania, should I look to head back to New Jersey if I want any chance to become a professional engineer? Should I just stay at my company and look for engineering work where I can gain enough experience to take the PE exam? Does not working under a professional engineer stagnate my chances of taking the PE exam? I am trying to get a little help before I make my next moves.

Kingsley Obasi, E.I.T.
Camden, New Jersey

It really depends on what you want to accomplish with your career. I worked in the construction industry immediately upon graduation, which turned out in my case to be a good choice. Not the same for everyone. I spent approximately 10 years working in the construction industry, but fortunately for me, I was able to use my engineering skills in construction, surveying, earthwork comps, designing formwork for concrete, supervising the erection of structural steel, etc. So, when I finally made the jump to consulting, I did have to refresh my skills some due to the different end game but was able to make the transition.

The sad part was that I did not work under the direction of a professional engineer during those times, but I do think that in the end, the designs I developed, were very “constructible.” I now have, and have had for some 30 years, my professional engineers license. But, I am grateful for the experience I gained while working on the construction side of things. However, if your goal is to be a professional engineer, then I recommend that you consider a change. Not to say you can’t have a fulfilling life doing what you are currently doing. I am fortunate to have been happy in both legs of my journey. Not everyone is so fortunate.

My best wishes for you in your decision. The thing that always helped me be content was helping make a difference.

Terry Carpenter, P.E.
Springdale, AR

I expanded the breadth of my knowledge, which made me more valuable overall. Knowing a little bit about everything helps you meet your project and personal goals, and expands your sphere of influence. In the meantime, do not neglect your depth of knowledge on day-to-day subjects. Finding a balance is the difficult part.

Brian Knutson, P.E., F.NSPE
Minnesota City, MN