PS101 - Appointment of engineers to policy positions in government

Approved by the Engineering Practice Policy Committee on January 22, 2024
Approved by the Public Policy and Practice Committee on May 29, 2024
Adopted by the Board of Direction on July 18, 2024

Policy

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) encourages and supports the appointment of licensed civil engineers to policy level positions in government. ASCE will recommend and endorse candidates for appointed office as appropriate. 

Issue

Engineering projects that address infrastructure needs are complex requiring consideration of life-cycle costs, new technologies, and resilient and sustainable practices. Licensed civil engineers’ knowledge, experience, and judgement are essential when decisions on infrastructure projects of significant magnitude, program development, and complexity have a lasting and widespread impact on public health, safety, and welfare. 

Rationale

Social, economic, environmental, and political considerations must be balanced with engineering judgment in the public policy making process. Civil engineering professionals have the knowledge, expertise, and judgment that is vital in establishing sound public policy on infrastructure related projects. Policy-level participation of civil engineers with appropriate expertise helps to maximize the benefits of infrastructure and the protection of public health, safety, and welfare.

This policy has worldwide application
ASCE Policy Statement 101
First Approved in 1953