Approved by the Committee on Advancing the Profession on February 4, 2021
Approved by the Public Policy and Practice Committee on May 6, 2021
Adopted by the Board of Direction on July 16, 2021
Policy
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) encourages the selection and appointment of licensed professional engineers to government positions requiring professional engineering knowledge for operational or management decisions. Such positions include those involving the formulation and implementation of public policy, including the oversight of design and construction of public works projects, e.g., directors of public works/utilities, leaders and managers of civil engineering related government entities, and other positions affecting the public health, safety, and welfare.
Issue
There are many positions in government that require an individual to oversee design, construction and/or maintenance of engineering structures or projects. Often these positions involve supervision of engineering professionals. The public interest is best served when these positions are filled by licensed professional engineers who understand the impact of engineering decisions on the public health, safety, and welfare.
Rationale
ASCE recognizes the importance of having qualified engineers lead agencies that have a direct impact on the public health, safety, and welfare. Agency leaders establish public policy and develop procedures for the design and implementation of construction projects. It is imperative that these policies and procedures be managed by licensed professional engineers to fulfill the agency’s obligations to protect the public health, safety, and welfare.
This policy has worldwide application
ASCE Policy Statement 416
First Approved in 1993