Winter 2022

NSPE Today: Policy Perspectives
Join the Public Policy Conversation

BY MARGARET EDWARDS

Why are professional engineers uniquely suited to be a part of conversations that shape public policy? To answer this question, we should start by asking, What is an engineer and what makes engineers unique? Simply put, engineers are problem solvers who bring their creativity to finding engineering solutions.

Returning to the original question, professional engineers are problem solvers with an obligation to protect the public, which creates a unique perspective that needs to be a part of policy discussions. Can we confidently say that policymakers are looking out for public safety when the professional engineer’s voice is missing? PEs also thrive on creativity and imagination, traits that are sorely needed at the public policy table.

Right now, we can point to many examples where engineers can have an impact on public policy or where their input is necessary for shaping public policy. One example, on both the federal and state levels, is natural disaster preparedness and mitigation in the face of worsening catastrophes. Policymakers consider what resources should be devoted to addressing disasters once they occur, but work can also be done on the front end by creating codes and policies on how structures should be built to hopefully withstand future natural disasters. Engineers are a perfect voice to take part in this conversation; their ethical obligations to the public as well as their creativity and imagination in solving problems like this are greatly needed.

Professional engineers should also have a seat at the table when federal policymakers, on both the legislative and regulatory sides, are thinking through sustainability and climate issues. For example, in December 2021 President Biden signed an executive order creating a federal sustainability plan, which creates zero-emission goals for the federal government. Some of the plan’s elements relate to overall net-zero emissions and climate-resilient infrastructure and operations. Engineers of all disciplines are going to play a role in accomplishing the federal government’s goals, so they should have a say in the policies that are being created. There is the possibility that federal regulations will result from the executive order, which would create the opportunity for engineers to provide comment and contribute to the conversation.

Asking why do PEs need to have a say in shaping public policy? leads us to an obvious answer. Professional engineers bring a unique, creative problem-solving approach and also make decisions that protect the public.

The next question to answer: How can PEs be involved in shaping public policy? A great resource to start is visiting the NSPE Advocacy Center. There, members can find their elected officials, from the federal level down to the local level; participate in advocacy campaigns around NSPE’s core policy issues; and share with engineer colleagues the importance of participating in advocacy. Also, members can respond to opportunities for public comment on proposed regulations. On the federal level, executive agencies publish requests for comment to solicit feedback from experts. Engineers should take advantage of these opportunities. Employment at a federal agency isn’t required. Additionally, there are many ways PEs can serve the public in appointed positions, including serving on a state’s licensing board.

You can count on NSPE to provide opportunities for members to have a seat at the policy table. In 2022, NSPE will continue to create advocacy campaigns to engage members, invite our top advocates to regular roundtable discussions, and keep members informed of state and federal policy conversations. We just need you, NSPE members, to participate and make sure your voice as a professional engineer is heard. Your participation will help lead NSPE to success as we work toward ensuring PEs play a role in policy discussions.

Margaret Edwards is NSPE’s policy and advocacy associate.