I have a BS degree in electrical engineering, and I am working on my MS degree in EE now. I am doing a large chunk of my coursework and research in the power area. I plan to head out into industry after completing my master's (maybe work for a power plant, research lab or power electronics manufacturer, not sure as of yet).
Would it be worth it to pursue a PE license in my case? I have heard that it sometimes isn't that helpful in advancing your career options depending on your situation.
Thanks for your input!
2006-10-17 11:54:01 · 6 answers · asked by Ubi 5 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
I would get the PE. I graduated 10 years ago and initially did not pursue a PE license as it wouldn't help my career...so, I thought. After graduation, I worked for a private manufacturing company - no PE required ever. What I noticed though, is that the few guys with PE's were often more highly regarded and management tended to listen to them more.
After a while I switched jobs. The new place I work requires a PE license for promotion. Until coming here I did nothing and found myself taking the FE 7 years after graduation and the PE 8 years after. Not fun. Glad to say, I passed both on the first try.
Since getting it, I have been promoted, people listen more and upon first impression walk away more impressed. A PE license has so many intangibles...you will kick yourself, as I did, if you don't do it now.
My excuse back then was...I was too busy and it wouldn't help me. Wrong, wrong, wrong.
2006-10-17 19:36:33 · answer #1 · answered by Cycleogical 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Some schools make you take the FE. It really isn't that difficult.
You are right that a PE license isn't necessarily helpful. Nevertheless, I'd recommend taking the FE while you're still in school and think about the PE later.
2006-10-17 15:45:13 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Always take the FE exam. You never know what you'll be doing in the future, plus its super easy.
If youre working in a power plant, or for an evergy co, you'll prolly need your PE. All the pollution stuff has to be signed off on for the EPA by a PE.
2006-10-17 12:43:30 · answer #3 · answered by Duluth06ChE 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would recommend taking the FE exam for two reasons. First, the material is fresh in your mind. Second, should you decide later on that you do want your PE, then the FE is under your belt.
I don't know about electricals, I am a civil PE though.
2006-10-17 12:13:44 · answer #4 · answered by daedgewood 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
definitely take it- it's pretty cheap and it will probably pay off in the years to come. I believe (not positive) it takes 5 years from getting your EIT before you can take the PE, so taking the FE early allows you to get the PE earlier.
If you decide later on that the PE is not sorth it to you, nothing wasted really
2006-10-17 13:03:58 · answer #5 · answered by zmonte 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Brilliant
2016-05-21 21:54:54 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋