Explanation of terms (USA/Canada to UK translation reqd.) 1

[HamishMcTavish]

Hello all,

There are sometimes that I read posts from the States or Canada and cannot follow the various arguements (for or against). Part of the reason is that I still do not understand the various ways that engineers can work across the pond!

Sometimes the point of the posts are obvious from context but other times the arguements are very location specific. While I may not be able to contribute to these threads I stil like to try and develop an understanding of what issues concern the rest of the world!

Please could someone explain to me the difference between FE and PE? Also what does the term 'industry exempt' cover?

Many thanks, HM

No more things should be presumed to exist than are absolutely necessary - William of Occam

 

[PSE]

Hamish,

These terms deal with Engineering within the US

FE = Fundamentals of Engineering - this is an exam taken either nearing graduation or afterward as a pre-requisite to the Professional Engineering Examination (PE exam)

PE = Professional Engineer - An individual licensed by a state (or several) to practice engineering. These individuals can directly work within the public realm.

Industrially Exempt - An individual practicing engineering within a corporate entity. They are not required to have a Professional Engineering license. These individuals cannot legally work directly within the public realm as engineers.

Hope this helps.

 

[HamishMcTavish]

Thanks PSE,

Is the 'industrially exempt' category so that liability from an individual's work is captured by insurance from the parent company?

If so does that mean that every company that employs industrially exempt engineers must also employ a PE to sign off work?

No more things should be presumed to exist than are absolutely necessary - William of Occam

 

[PSE]

The company assumes the liability for the products that it produces. While it does not prevent an individual from being sued, there is also no requirement for a PE to sign off work on the product. This may vary by industry. My experience has been in instrumentation and semi-conductors.

 

[HamishMcTavish]

Thanks PSE,

I've also just ploughed through 730-29503 'REvamping the PE Licensing Process' which has given a good cross section of views....Phew! a very long post.

Regards, HM.

No more things should be presumed to exist than are absolutely necessary - William of Occam