Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science
FAQ
Many people have no idea what engineers are or what they do. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about engineering. If you have a question which isn't answered here email it to us and we'll get back to you. If we get the same question often enough, we'll add it to the web site.
General FAQ
What is engineering?
Engineers do so many things, this question could have a very long answer. Basically, engineers use concepts in math and science to solve problems creatively. They apply science, which is why engineering is often referred to as applied science. When you make toast in the morning, phone your friend or fly in a plane, you experience the work of engineers first-hand. Moon landings, cellular phones and satellites orbiting through space are possible because of engineers. Engineers are involved with the design, construction and operation of everything from razor blades and microchips to skyscrapers and bridges. Although technology is advancing rapidly, the underlying scientific theories and principles it is based on are constant. Aboriginal people have been practicing the art of engineering for thousands of years. Building igloos, designing irrigation systems and even traveling across harsh terrain, all require the application of scientific knowledge and, therefore, engineering.
Are there any Aboriginal engineers?
Yes! There are Aboriginal engineers in Canada, but not very many. In fact, there aren't even close to enough Native engineers to meet the engineering needs of their own communities. Aboriginal engineers work at big companies like Syncrude, Shell, Pratt & Whitney and the federal government. They also work for your local band council, treaty organization or public works department.
Meet some Aboriginal Engineers.
What does it mean to be a P.Eng or ing.?
Professional engineers are restricted by law to those who are qualified in terms of education and experience. Membership in the appropriate provincial or territorial association of professional engineering provides engineers with legal registration for the practice of engineering. Professional Engineering in each province or territory is legislated under an act of the provincial or territorial government. Professional engineers follow a code of professional conduct and ethics and a series of legal requirements which differ in each province and territory. They are permitted to use the designation P.Eng, or, in Quebec, ing., after their names.
Professional Engineering Associations
Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland
Association of Professional Engineers of Nova Scotia
Association of Professional Engineers of Prince Edward Island
Association of Professional Engineers of New Brunswick
Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Manitoba
Professional Engineers Ontario
Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan
Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists of Alberta
Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia
Association of Professional Engineers of the Yukon
What is the CCPE?
The Canadian Council of Professional Engineers is the national organization of 12 provincial and territorial associations that govern the practice of engineering in Canada and license more than 234,000 qualified professional engineers. The CCPE facilitates discussion and development of common admission and practice standards in the form of guidelines that are generally followed across the country. It also educates the public about the vital role engineers play in society and acts as an advocate to protect and represent the best interests of the public.
Why do most engineers in Canada wear an iron ring on their pinkies?
The Iron Ring, is worn on the pinkie of the working hand and is the symbol of membership in the family of engineers. The Iron Ring ceremony is overseen by the Corporation of the Seven Wardens, which is independent of both the educational and licensing institutions. Engineers wear it in order to remind themselves that the work they do directly impacts the lives of people on a daily basis.