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Why bother with licensure?
Think about it. Your career could last up to 40 years or more. You never know how a career path will change, especially in today's marketplace. Consider the situations you could encounter in your career:
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Your company experiences layoffs, reorganizes, or merges with another company.
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Your company decides to bring design and engineering services in-house.
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You change jobs within the state, or between states (remember, the license is essentially a portable credential).
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You decide to "switch gears" after working in a particular area of engineering after several years.
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You decide to run your own company.
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You decide you want to offer your skills as a consultant. |
Regardless of the career path you choose, consider that what is standard and accepted today in the engineering field may not be the same in the future. The scope of engineering practice is constantly changing, and engineering activities that may be exempt today may eventually shift into a practice area that one day requires a license.
Perhaps the biggest reason to pursue professional licensure is the enhanced career potential. For example, only licensed professionals are allowed to offer their services to the public and sign and seal plans for the public. While various practice niches have been granted exemption from licensure today, these exemptions vary among jurisdictions and there is no guarantee that these exemptions are permanent.
Many clients are looking for ways to differentiate between firms they want to hire. A firm with multiple licensed engineers may win a competitive bid over a firm without professional engineers.
The potential for salary increases and the opportunity for promotions are often enhanced when a candidate has obtained a professional license. And, licensure is a sign of commitment to your profession.
[source: National Society of Professional Engineers, 2002 Income and Salary Survey Report; 6,559 NSPE members participated. Note: income is defined in this survey as individual's annual base salary from his/her primary employer as of January 1, 2002, plus additional cash income from the individual's primary job (including fees, bonuses, commissions, but excluding overtime pay and secondary or part-time employment]
Make your decision today and follow the path of licensure. This path will lead you to higher wages, better opportunities, and a higher level of respect and credibility among your engineering peers.
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