Professionalism in Engineering

A way of life with strict moral requirements that was historically associated with monks.

A group of individuals with specialized knowledge and skills, who provide services to the public and adhere to ethical standards.

Defines a profession by its characteristics—expertise, service, and ethical conduct.

Describes a profession as an agreement between professionals and the public; professionals provide services, the public grants trust and privileges.

Views a profession as a group of individuals committed to a moral ideal, exceeding legal, market, and societal expectations.

Following external rules and guidelines, focusing on compliance and meeting expectations.

Conforming to the expectations and standards of other professionals, especially those considered exemplary.

Integrating personal values with professional ethics, becoming a self-directed, responsible professional.

The fundamental principle that the well-being of society takes precedence over the interests of individuals, companies, or organizations.

The idea that engineers and architects should use their knowledge and skills to benefit humanity and protect the environment.

Engineers and architects should strive to maintain a diverse and inclusive society by upholding principles such as human rights, peace, and democracy.

Engineers and architects should promote positive social development by prioritizing environmental sustainability.

A professional code of ethics that emphasizes the engineers' responsibility to protect the public's safety, health, property, and welfare.

The engineers' responsibility to inform their employer or client if their professional judgment is overruled and the public's safety is at risk.

Engineers and architects should avoid discriminatory practices based on factors such as religion, language, race, belief, gender, or geographic location.

Engineers and architects should prioritize actions that contribute to the overall well-being and development of society.

The practice of engineering in the US is not strictly controlled as engineers do not always need to be registered professionals (PEs) to practice. Only about one-third of engineers are registered with state licensing boards.

Although engineers in business and public organizations might not have the same autonomy as lawyers or doctors with their own practice, they still have more autonomy than most non-professionals.

Engineering professional codes are designed to guide ethical conduct for the public good. These codes set standards for engineers to follow in their work.

One unique aspect of engineering is the primary obligation to the public good, even above the interests of employers, clients or patients.

The American Bar Association's Model Rules of Professional Conduct emphasize a lawyer's role as a representative of clients, an officer of the legal system, and a public citizen with a responsibility for justice.

The Code of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants places responsibility on accountants towards the public, with clients being the primary beneficiary of their services.

The Code of Medical Ethics of the American Medical Association emphasizes the physician's responsibility to the patient as the primary focus, followed by society and other health professionals.

Engineers and architects are obligated to consider the long-term health and well-being of the environment and ensure its survival for future generations.

They must prioritize the public good over their own personal interests, even if it means going against their employer or client.

They are obligated to use their knowledge and skills to benefit society, protect historical achievements, and promote human welfare.

Engineers and architects are expected to provide clear and accurate technical information to the public, free from commercial bias.

They play a crucial role in educating the public about technology, its proper use, and its potential impact.

They must protect workers' health and safety by implementing appropriate measures and providing information on workplace hazards.

They are expected to treat all individuals, including employers, clients, and colleagues, with fairness, honesty, and integrity.

They must understand their professional responsibilities and maintain high ethical standards.

The ability to identify and analyze ethical problems within engineering, recognizing their moral implications.

The willingness and ability to engage in fair and reasonable moral decision-making.

The capacity to understand, interpret, and evaluate different perspectives on ethical issues, fostering a balanced and informed approach.

Maintaining consistency in moral values, ensuring that all actions align with a unified set of ethical principles.

The ability to envision alternative solutions to ethical dilemmas, exploring creative ways to address complex situations.

Communicating ethical choices and arguments clearly and effectively, ensuring that moral considerations are understood and valued.

Treating every individual, regardless of their differences (ethnic, cultural, or religious), with respect and fairness.

The belief that rational discussions can solve ethical conflicts and build common ground.

Engineers and architects must prioritize the well-being of society over the interests of individuals, organizations, or companies.

Engineers should not accept gifts, money, or favors that could compromise their impartial professional judgment.

Engineers and architects should use their knowledge and skills to benefit humanity and protect the environment.

Engineers should not disclose confidential information related to their employer or client without permission.

The tendency to overlook potential problems and accept assumptions without critical thinking.

The potential problem of engineers or architects relying on others to catch errors and not taking responsibility for their own mistakes.

Engineers should strive to maintain a diverse and inclusive society by upholding ethical standards such as human rights, peace, and democracy.