Supporting Women Engineers on the Licensure Path
Women represent a growing percentage of engineering graduates and working engineers, yet they remain underrepresented in many engineering fields and in professional licensure statistics. This guide highlights resources, support networks, and strategies specifically relevant to women engineers pursuing the FE exam and professional licensure.
The Current Landscape
Women earn approximately 20 to 25% of engineering bachelor's degrees in the United States, with some disciplines (biomedical, environmental, chemical) having higher representation and others (mechanical, electrical, computer) having lower representation. The percentage of licensed female PEs is even lower, partly because women are more concentrated in engineering fields where PE licensure is less common (such as biomedical and software engineering) and partly because of systemic barriers and career interruptions.
Increasing the number of women who pass the FE exam and pursue PE licensure strengthens the profession and ensures diverse perspectives in engineering decision-making. If you are a woman engineer considering the FE exam, know that you belong in this profession and that resources exist to support your success.
Professional Organizations
Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
SWE is the largest organization dedicated to advancing women in engineering. It offers networking, mentorship, career resources, and scholarship opportunities. Local and collegiate sections provide community and support. SWE conferences include technical sessions that may qualify for continuing education credit.
Women in Science and Engineering (WISE)
WISE programs at many universities provide mentoring, professional development, and community for women in STEM fields. If you are a recent graduate, staying connected with your university's WISE network can provide ongoing support during FE exam preparation.
Discipline-Specific Groups
Many engineering professional societies have women's committees or affinity groups. Examples include the Women in ASCE network, ASME's Women in Engineering group, and IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE). These groups often provide mentoring and networking opportunities specific to your engineering discipline.
Finding Mentors and Study Partners
Having a mentor who has navigated the FE exam and PE licensure process can provide valuable guidance and encouragement. Look for mentors through:
- Your employer's mentoring program
- Professional society mentoring initiatives (SWE, ASCE, ASME, IEEE, etc.)
- Alumni networks from your engineering program
- Online communities and forums dedicated to women in engineering
- Local engineering society chapters
Study partners and study groups provide accountability and mutual support during preparation. Consider forming or joining a study group with other women engineers preparing for the FE exam. The shared experience can be motivating and the peer support is invaluable.
Addressing Common Challenges
Imposter Syndrome
Many women engineers experience imposter syndrome: the feeling that they do not belong or are not qualified despite evidence of their competence. If you feel this way about the FE exam, remember that your engineering degree qualifies you to take the exam, that your coursework prepared you for the content, and that thousands of women engineers have passed the FE exam. You are not an imposter; you are an engineer preparing for a professional milestone.
Work-Life Balance During Study
Women engineers who are also caregivers face additional time constraints during FE exam preparation. Strategies that help include studying during children's nap times or after bedtime, sharing childcare responsibilities with a partner during study sessions, using audio lectures during commutes, and being upfront with family about the temporary increase in study time.
Workplace Support
If your employer supports professional development, take advantage of it. Many companies offer study time, course reimbursement, and exam fee coverage. Having your employer's support makes the preparation process significantly easier. If your employer does not have a formal policy, consider making the case that your FE/PE certification benefits the company.
Scholarship and Financial Support
Several organizations offer scholarships and financial assistance for women pursuing engineering licensure. SWE and other professional societies offer scholarships that can offset the costs of review courses, exam fees, and study materials. Check with your professional society chapters for local scholarship opportunities.
Building a Support Network
Success on the FE exam and throughout your engineering career is strengthened by a supportive professional network. Invest in building relationships with other engineers, both women and men, who share your professional goals. Attend local engineering events, participate in professional society activities, and stay connected with your engineering school alumni network.
Your Success Matters
Every woman who passes the FE exam and pursues PE licensure contributes to a more inclusive and representative engineering profession. Your technical skills, unique perspectives, and professional achievements make the engineering community stronger. The FE exam is a step on your professional journey, and you have every reason to approach it with confidence.