Engineers are often called on to make decisions about complex issues that do not have simple, clear choices. We are expected to make decisions or recommendations using our education, knowledge, and experience, in a way that is in the best interest of the public, our employer, and our profession. Engineers frequently work on projects that involve large financial investments and returns – and sometimes that can lead to decisions being made that are NOT in the best interest of all stakeholders.

This presentation reviews the ethical responsibilities of an engineer by discussing professional ethics and examples from industry where unethical behavior occurred. One of the best formats for discussing ethics comes from the group that administers the professional licensure exams, as well as the requirements for ethical conduct spelled out by Minnesota state law. Although these rules and laws are directed at P.E.’s, they provide guidance for everyone. The ethical codes of various professional engineering societies, including the IEEE, will be addressed.

The session will end with any stories on ethical challenges that members of the audience are willing to share. It is arguably through such stories that the best ethics guidance occurs.

1 PDH will be provided. Dinner and a social will be at the Lyric Kitchen after the seminar.

Abstract and Bio for IEEE Arrowhead Presentation of 5-2019