Why We Trust Engineers

Happy Friday,

In surveys and studies, engineers typically rank high in trustworthiness compared to other professions. It's trust rooted both in expertise and a commitment and adherence to the highest principles of ethical conduct.

Given the loss of trust in so many institutions, I thought I'd share a summary of the Professional Engineer's Rules of Practice, the framework that governs engineering and upholds trust in the profession. Everyone in an engineering organization should give it a one-minute read. One can't help but feel both the weight of responsibility and the pride of being a part of this important profession.

As you read through the ten rules, you can easily envision real-world situations that would challenge them. That's why it's so important that leaders know and respect the rules of practice and reinforce them with staff. The business of engineering isn't always black and white, so when a situation is gray, everyone needs to know the answer - just do what's right. When they do, a good leader and a good organization will always have their back.

Summary of Engineer's Rules of Practice:

1.     Public Safety: Engineers must prioritize public safety, health, and welfare, and notify relevant authorities if their judgment is overruled in a way that endangers life or property.

2.     Document Approval: Engineers should only approve engineering documents that meet applicable standards and must not sign documents outside their expertise or control.

3.     Confidentiality: Engineers must keep client or employer information confidential unless required by law or this code.

4.     Integrity and Honesty: Engineers must avoid associating with fraudulent activities, must act objectively, and must be truthful in reports, statements, and public statements.

5.     Conflict of Interest: Engineers must disclose potential conflicts of interest and should not accept compensation from multiple parties for the same project without full disclosure.

6.     Professional Conduct: Engineers should avoid deceptive acts, misrepresentation, and must not solicit or accept bribes or commissions. They should act with honesty, fairness, and respect.

7.     Competence and Professional Development: Engineers should only undertake assignments within their competence and engage in continuous professional development.

8.     Public Interest: Engineers are encouraged to contribute to community well-being, adhere to sustainable practices, and extend public knowledge of engineering.

9.     Employment and Professional Relations: Engineers must inform employers of outside work, avoid attracting employees through misleading means, and should not use employer resources for private practice without consent.

10.  Ownership and Credit: Engineers must recognize and credit the work and proprietary interests of others, and agreements regarding ownership of work should be established before undertaking new projects.

No one, including most of those we take direction from, has a greater personal responsibility, personal liability, or duty to the public. Engineers must always be the adult in the room. Such is the public's expectation and the basis of its trust in Engineers.

Have a great weekend,

Dave

Your feedback and blowback are welcome: dave@goodnewsfriday.com

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