Being professionally registered, I won't vote, but thinking back about my own experience, I put it off for years because it was very daunting, even though I had been working in responsible positions with complex systems in some of the country's leading infrastructure projects leading to that point. The IEE was a very different place to the IET, but I guess it still looks like a big hill to climb.

The best advice I can give to anyone thinking of starting the process is speak to a Professional Registration Advisor, who will help take the veil of the mystical process, tell you what to expect based on your experience, and hopefully give you some advice on how to prepare for the interview.

Could you share whether attaining the status of Chartered Engineer has provided tangible benefits in your career , or was it primarily pursued as a personal achievement akin to my own aspirations.

I inquire for the benefit of those contemplating the extensive journey toward professional registration. As for myself, I have decided not to pursue reapplication. Should my current qualifications not suffice for recognition as an engineer, I am content to continue my career as an ECS Installation Technician. Upon considered reflection, I question the necessity of maintaining membership with the IET, particularly in light of the annual dues, given my current registration with ECS and IHEEM, which align closely with my specialisation in health and hospital installations. I wonder,  does the IET membership confer any additional professional advantages that would justify the expense? My career trajectory has many parallels with that of Michael Peace. Despite these similarities, he has attained the status of Chartered Engineer ? Although I continue to  practice in the field of electrical installation 

There is a prevailing sentiment within the profession that it systematically marginalizes the blue-collar practitioner. The encouragement to pursue an EngTech designation, rather than being recognized as an engineer, perpetuates the notion that the title of ‘engineer’ is exclusively reserved for those with an academic background

Forgive me but engineer is like leader. An unprotected title.

I know many people who really do push boundaries and I consider to be engineers in full no matter their background qualifications, yet all too often the vending machine breaks and an 'engineer' is called to fix it - and that's in an engineering company.

At the end of the day, it's your call my friend. I am chartered purely because it adds another string to my skills and qualifications bow and if that's what makes me stand out when interviewing for my next role - so be it.

In my extensive search, the term ‘leader’ appears to be conspicuously absent.

In my extensive search, the term ‘leader’ appears to be conspicuously absent.