Pennsylvania Engineering Foundation and Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers Awarded Grant to Promote Licensure and Address Engineer Shortage

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania – June 21, 2024 – The Pennsylvania Engineering Foundation (PEF), the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers (PSPE) and Wanner Associates, Inc., in a collaborative effort, have been awarded a significant Industry Partnership Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I). This grant will fund a comprehensive initiative to promote awareness of the importance of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam among engineering students and encourage them to take the exam before graduation.

“We are thrilled to receive this grant from the PA Department of Labor & Industry,” said Jennifer Summers, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Engineering Foundation. “This funding will allow us to make a real difference in addressing the critical shortage of licensed engineers in the Commonwealth. By encouraging engineering students to take the FE Exam before graduation, we can help ensure a smooth transition into the workforce and accelerate their path to becoming licensed Professional Engineers.”

The FE Exam is the first step towards becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). Passing the exam demonstrates a fundamental understanding of engineering principles and prepares graduates for the demands of the profession. The grant will enable PEF and PSPE to develop and implement a multi-faceted campaign that includes:

  • Awareness outreach programs for engineering students and faculty at Pennsylvania universities.
  • Video sessions, college engineering seniors will get first-hand advice on the FE exam and career paths through one-on-one interviews and a roundtable discussion with experienced licensed professional engineers.
  • A subsidy program to help defray the cost of study materials and taking the FE Exam.
  • Development of online resources specifically tailored to Pennsylvania engineering students.

“This initiative aligns perfectly with PSPE’s mission to support and promote the engineering profession in Pennsylvania,” said Jennifer Summers, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Engineering Foundation. “By working together with PSPE and the PA Department of Labor & Industry, we can ensure a strong and qualified engineering workforce for the future of the Commonwealth.”

The grant program is a critical component of the PA Department of Labor & Industry’s ongoing efforts to address workforce shortages in key industries. Pennsylvania, like many states nationwide, faces a growing demand for licensed engineers across various sectors. This initiative aims to bridge the gap by encouraging a new generation of engineers to pursue licensure and contribute their skills to the state’s economy.

 

About the Pennsylvania Engineering Foundation (PEF)

The Pennsylvania Engineering Foundation (PEF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the engineering profession in Pennsylvania. PEF works to inspire future engineers, enhance the professional development of practicing engineers, and advocate for public policies that support a strong and vibrant engineering community.

About the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers (PSPE)

The Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers (PSPE) is the largest engineering society in Pennsylvania, representing over 17,000 licensed engineers and engineering students. PSPE provides its members with professional development opportunities, advocacy on legislative issues impacting the profession, and a network of colleagues across the state.

About the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I)

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) is committed to ensuring a safe and healthy work environment for all Pennsylvanians. L&I also works to connect employers with a skilled workforce and promote economic development throughout the Commonwealth.

Contact:

Jennifer Summers, Executive Director, jennifer@wannerassoc.com, 717-441-6051