The P.Eng. Applicant

Licensing Questions: ERC Interview for International Engineer

Hi everyone! We’re back with a second instalment of licensing questions answered by Gavin Simone, the man behind PracticePPEExams.ca.

Gavin is an expert in the licensing process for all Canadian licensing bodies, having helped thousands of aspiring engineers overcome licensing hurdles. The reviews of his help from satisfied customers speak for themselves.

Gavin has kindly agreed to periodically answer some of your questions himself. While these answers come from a true expert, the licensing process is constantly evolving; therefore the site-wide disclaimer applies here as well.

So enjoy Gavin’s insights and please keep the questions coming in the comments section and we just might feature them!

ERC Interview?

Reader: I am an internationally trained civil engineer. I submitted my application for P. Eng.. After they have reviewed my academic background the Academic Requirements Committee (ARC) assigned me to a confirmatory program in CE. I will then be given an option to attend an interview with the Experience Requirement Committee (ERC) so that they can assess if my engineering experience can be taken into consideration towards waiving the examination program. Does anyone has any suggestions or examples of their preparation for the ERC interview?

Gavin: There are a few things to consider for when developing work samples for your PEO ERC Interview.

Your two work samples should be the best representation of your ability to apply engineering principles and knowledge. You can bring things like drawings, reports, calculations, etc. The samples must be your own work. Try to showcase your most technical work and something that would be the closest to professional level work. You should know the samples in and out and be expected to answer questions about them–not only about your specific project but about variations. For example, what would you do if you had to do your design with a different material? Or in a different climate? Or using a different construction/fabrication method?

To download a free interview cheat sheet and book a mock interview with an engineering in your field (civil, mechanical and electrical only), please visit PracticePPEExams

(more Q &A to come!)