September/October 2017

On Ethics
Diversity and Equity Get a Place in Civil Engineering Code of Ethics

As the engineering profession seeks to open more opportunities for women, people of color, and individuals in underrepresented groups, the American Society of Civil Engineers has added a new canon to its code of ethics to address equity and inclusion in the profession.

In an August statement, ASCE Executive Director Tom Smith said that the organization has been working for decades to advance diversity within the profession, and codifying its longstanding policy in its code of ethics reflects the collective responsibility to promote a diverse and inclusive profession. This canon is the first revision to the organization’s code of ethics since 2006.

Canon 8 states the following:

Engineers shall, in all matters related to their profession, treat all persons fairly and encourage equitable participation without regard to gender or gender identity, race, national origin, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation, or family, marital, or economic status.

1. Engineers shall conduct themselves in a manner in which all persons are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.
2. Engineers shall not engage in discrimination or harassment in connection with their professional activities.
3. Engineers shall consider the diversity of the community, and shall endeavor in good faith to include diverse perspectives, in the planning and performance of their professional services.