Villanova Kicks Off Engineers Week with Order of the Engineer Ceremony

On February 17th, 2020, during Engineers Week, the Villanova University chapter of the National Society of Professional Engineers sponsored an “Order of the Engineer” ring ceremony. The Order of the Engineer organization has promoted ethics and fostered a sense of pride within the engineering profession since 1970.  During the ceremony initiates voluntarily pledge an oath to uphold ethical standards and to serve humanity by making the best use of Earth’s precious wealth. Initiates receive a stainless-steel ring to be worn on the pinky finger of their dominant hand. Each time the ring strikes a solid surface, the engineer is reminded of their pledge. The Order is not a membership organization; there are never any meetings to attend or dues to pay. Instead, the Order fosters a unity of purpose and the honoring of one’s lifelong pledge.

Since 2015, Villanova has initiated over 200 students, faculty and local engineers into the Order. This year’s ring ceremony included 33 graduating seniors and practicing engineers. The ceremony was conducted by Dr. Andrea Welker, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs; along with Dr. Peter Staffeld, associate teaching professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering; and Frank Falcone, director of Professional Development & Experiential Education.

In addition to the Order of the Engineer event, the College hosted a Career Compass Networking session to bring together undergraduates and alumni for conversation.

Next year’s ring ceremony will again be held during Engineers Week. Graduating engineering students and practicing engineers are encouraged to join. Contact Dr. Peter Staffeld for more information.

Obligation of an Engineer

I am an Engineer.  In my profession I take deep pride.  To it I owe solemn obligations.  

As an Engineer, I pledge to practice integrity and fair dealing, tolerance and respect; and to uphold devotion to the standards and the dignity of my profession, conscious always that my skill carries with it the obligation to serve humanity by making the best use of Earth’s precious wealth.

As an Engineer, I shall participate in none but honest enterprises.  When needed, my skill and knowledge shall be given without reservation for the public good.  In the performance of duty and in fidelity to my profession, I shall give my utmost.