Registration vs Experience
Registration vs Experience
(OP)
Hi all:
Can somebody tell me what is more important, Registration or experience? I have 18 years experience, but am currently out of work. It seems to be harder to get on without EIT or PE.
Since I need a lot of study to pass the exams, (I can not Granny in here) Do I already have enough practical experience to use anyway to just study for the next 6-12 mos or whatever while working part-time somewhere else?
Thanks and happy engineering.
Can somebody tell me what is more important, Registration or experience? I have 18 years experience, but am currently out of work. It seems to be harder to get on without EIT or PE.
Since I need a lot of study to pass the exams, (I can not Granny in here) Do I already have enough practical experience to use anyway to just study for the next 6-12 mos or whatever while working part-time somewhere else?
Thanks and happy engineering.





RE: Registration vs Experience
RE: Registration vs Experience
Experience counts more for most industries. But, if you are in an industry that requires routine stamping, I can't hire you without you being a PE or at least on your way to earning a PE. That little piece of paper makes a huge difference.
With 18 years of experience, assuming it is "qualifying experience," you should be able to waive the requirement for the FE exam and just sit for the PE exam. Good luck.
FYI: You will need a PE if you decide to provide engineering services on your own.
--Scott
http://wertel.eng.pro
RE: Registration vs Experience
Chris
SolidWorks/PDMWorks 08 3.1
AutoCAD 06/08
ctopher's home (updated 10-07-07)
RE: Registration vs Experience
Structural on the other hand, so-called experienced engineers without licenses typically are not "experienced"... they are just old. Of course, there are exceptions.
When engineers pass the SE exam, many act like they've reached the finish line. It's just a beginning.
RE: Registration vs Experience
If not - you may have trouble taking the PE!! There are a couple of states that will accept experience over a college degree - but not many. Check NCEES.com Look at Wyoming - I don't think they require a 4 year degree.
The PE is definitely worth it - in many applications - esp if you go into the public sector.
If you are designing the left landing gear on a Boeing 777 - probably not. Yes - I have had resumes that state they spent the last five years doing something just like that!! And they don't need a PE
Good Luck
RE: Registration vs Experience
In exempt industry the experience will generally be worth more than just PE, although obviously the combination will be best.
In non exempt industry, which I understand a lot (most?) civil and related work falls into the PE may be more highly prized as it will allow you to stamp drawings etc. and not having it may limit what you can do with regard to offering services to the public.
KENAT, probably the least qualified checker you'll ever meet...
RE: Registration vs Experience
RE: Registration vs Experience
Asking which is more important is fine, but you can't do anything about your experience level. You can do something about PE registration.
I would not assume that experience got you out of any exams in this case. Check with your state board for requirements.
RE: Registration vs Experience
How important is the PE? Sounds like it just got real important for you.
RE: Registration vs Experience
Yes sure you know what you are doing and do a good job but if you dont have a PE then someone else (with a PE) must take legal responsibility for your work.
In engineering you tend to get paid for responsibility level rather than experience.
RE: Registration vs Experience
If you have the education and experience, then you're 2/3 the way there. Go on now, finish it off!!
good luck,
h.
RE: Registration vs Experience
If it was in an exempt industry, then you will need to find another job in another exempt industry company where your experience will be valuable and the PE is not so important.
If you plan to jump into another industry which requires registration (such as civil or structural engineering), then you need to take the exam as soon as possible.
You will also need to realize that your experience may or may not transfer across industries that much. For example, if you have been doing structural detailing for an aircraft company for 18 years, now you want to start designing bridges - neither your experience or the PE will do much good.
RE: Registration vs Experience
Thanks Again for the great info!
Build it to Last.