Using Professional Services

You may not be familiar with them firsthand, but chances are you are familiar with their work. If you have ever marvelled at new developments in telecommunications and computer technology, admired the span of a bridge, or wondered how companies recover oil and gas resources more efficiently, you have appreciated the expertise of Alberta's professional engineers, geologists and geophysicists. They are often referred to as the "invisible" professions. However, they are making a very visible contribution to Alberta's economic bottom line by generating billions of dollars in revenue and creating thousands of jobs each year.

Professional engineers and geoscientists are employed by industry, government and educational institutions. There are more than 31,000 practitioners licensed to work in Alberta as designers, administrators, project managers, and consultants in industries like oil and gas, telecommunications, construction, transportation, forestry, and the environment.

Like other professions, engineering and the geosciences are self-regulated in accordance with an Alberta government statute. The Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists of Alberta (APEGGA) is responsible for licensing, establishing and maintaining practice standards, and developing codes of professional conduct and ethics that governs its members in their professional practice. APEGGA has the power and an obligation to withdraw the right to practice from members found guilty of unskilled or unethical practice.

The mark of a professional

What does a professional engineer or geoscientist bring to a project? Exacting standards. Ethical practices. Integrity. These are the principles of professionalism. A solid technical background, practical experience and the ability to work in a multi-disciplinary environment round out the professional's skills.

Anyone practicing professional engineering, geology or geophysics in Alberta must be licensed by APEGGA. "P.Eng.", "P.Geol." or "P. Geoph." indicate the person with whom you are dealing is a professional engineer, geologist or geophysicist. It is an exclusive title and only those persons licensed by APEGGA are authorized to use the designation. Companies providing engineering, geological or geophysical services are also required by law to have a permit to practice from APEGGA.

Does my project require a professional?

Are you looking for a practical solution to a specific problem? Are you interested in pursuing new technologies to do a job more efficiently? Perhaps, you are wondering about the most effective means of completing a project already underway. Professional engineers and geoscientists have the educational background and work experience to provide sound and competent advice. They provide a broad range of services.

Companies who routinely contract engineering, geological or geophysical services should ensure the individual or firm they are dealing with is licensed. These professionals meet APEGGA practice standards and are obliged to practice in accordance with the Engineering, Geological and Geophysical Professions Act.

How APEGGA can help?

When hiring a new employee or retaining engineering, geological or geophysical services, take the time to ensure you will be served effectively. If you are unsure, check with us. We would be pleased to verify whether the individual or firm you are considering is licensed and accountable under provincial legislation.

If you suspect the individual or company you are dealing with is not licensed, our compliance staff would like to hear from you.