The Percentage of Chemical Engineers with Professional Engineer (PE) Licenses: An Inside Look

Over the course of 43 years in the field, I've observed a trend in the professional development of chemical engineers (ChE). While a significant portion of my colleagues have obtained their Professional Engineer (PE) license, the ratio varies widely depending on the specific field. Here, I'll delve into the percentages, discuss the factors that influence this trend, and share insights based on personal experience.

Percentage of Chemical Engineers with PE Licenses

According to my observations over the years, fewer than 1 in 10 chemical engineers have obtained their Professional Engineer (PE) license. This rate can fluctuate based on the specific field and the type of work a chemical engineer performs. In the private sector, particularly among consulting engineers, the percentage is higher, perhaps as high as 1 in 3.

While these figures are based on my personal observations and anecdotal data, they highlight the variance in professional aspirational goals among chemical engineers. The reasons for this difference can be multifaceted, including employer policies, career goals, and the perceived value of the PE license in different industries.

Factors Influencing the Acquisition of PE Licenses

The decision to obtain a Professional Engineer (PE) license is often influenced by several factors, including the industry, job role, and personal professional development goals.

Industry

The demand for PE licenses varies significantly between different sectors of the chemical engineering industry. Consulting firms and firms in the public sector often place a greater emphasis on obtaining the PE license, which can lead to higher percentages of licensed engineers in these fields. Private industry, especially in manufacturing and process engineering, may have lower percentages due to less stringent requirements.

Job Role

The specific job role within the chemical engineering field is another critical factor. Engineers in research and development (RD), project management, and product development may be more motivated to obtain the PE license due to the regulatory and technical responsibilities involved. In contrast, those in roles focused on routine process design or paperwork may not see the same value or urgency in obtaining the license.

Career Goals

Personal career goals also play a significant role in whether a chemical engineer pursues a PE license. Some engineers are motivated by the idea of contributing to a broader range of projects, while others prefer to focus on specialized areas. The PE license can provide a broader scope of practice and greater authority, but it may also come with additional regulatory and administrative responsibilities.

Personal Reflection and Insights

During my 43-year career, I've considered obtaining my Professional Engineer (PE) license but made the decision not to pursue it due to the lack of differential compensation from my employers. Reflecting on this decision now, I believe it was a missed opportunity. Obtaining the PE license would have been beneficial, particularly when transitioning into the consulting field. The license would have provided enhanced credibility, greater flexibility, and additional opportunities for project leadership.

However, it's important to note that the decision to pursue a PE license is highly individual and should be made based on personal career aspirations and the specific needs of one's workplace. The value of the PE license can vary widely, and for some, the benefits may outweigh the efforts required to obtain it, while for others, the license may not be as valuable.

Conclusion

While the percentage of chemical engineers with Professional Engineer (PE) licenses varies widely, my observations over 43 years suggest that fewer than 1 in 10 ChEs hold this valuable credential. The consulting field sees a higher percentage, but this can be attributed to the specific nature of the work and the high demand for engineering expertise. Personal and professional factors significantly influence the decision to obtain the PE license, and the value of the license can vary based on the individual and their professional environment.

In conclusion, the percentage of chemical engineers with PE licenses is a complex metric influenced by various industry-specific and personal factors. Understanding these dynamics can help aspiring and current chemical engineers make more informed decisions about whether obtaining a PE license is the right path for them.