Almost all engineering students know the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is a computer-based test (CBT), and the NCEES FE Reference Handbook (version 9.5) is the only resource material that will be displayed on your exam monitor as a searchable PDF file. In this month’s article we will talk about this important “ally” and even create a practical case study.

By now, our readers, students and practicing engineers who are preparing to take their FE exam for the first time know that the most important advice they is to review the FE Reference Handbook (v. 9.5) as often as possible before the exam day and becoming familiar with the formulas, tables, charts, and other information in the reference book.

As we have indicated in earlier newsletters, you will not be allowed to bring your personal hard copy of the Handbook into the exam room. You must rely on the electronic PDF version of the FE Reference Handbook, which will be very similar to the printed hard-copy version. Quite often students ask us about the best strategy to find a formula or specific information in the searchable PDF file as quickly as possible. For this, the keyboard shortcut “CTRL-F” comes to the rescue. Below, we will create an actual case study to decipher the whole search process.

When you use the keyboard shortcut “CTRL-F”, you will be prompted with a dialogue search box to enter the keywords you would like to search for. Once your keywords have been entered, the keywords will show up highlighted in the reference manual and you can skip from one result to the other until you find exactly what you are looking for.

Case Study: Searching for the numerical value of the Modulus of Elasticity of Steel in the FE Reference Handbook (v. 9.5):

Most of us who regularly use values for the Modulus of Elasticity know that the modulus of elasticity of steel is E = 29 x 106 psi (29.0 Mpsi) in the U.S. Customary Unit System or E = 200 GPa in the SI unit system. These values are found on page 89 of the FE Reference Handbook.

As a case study, let us try to find these values in the PDF version of the FE Reference Handbook. Here are the possible steps for the search:

1. First you open the PDF file and once you see the cover of the Reference Handbook on your monitor, enter the keyboard shortcut “CTRL-F”. You will be prompted with a dialog search box with PREVIOUS and NEXT keys.

2. Type “Modulus of Elasticity of Steel” and hit the ENTER key. Surprisingly you will get the following message: “Acrobat has finished searching the document. No matches were found.” Then what do you do?

3. One possible next step would be to remove the word “steel” and leave the “Modulus of Elasticity” part and hit the ENTER or NEXT key again. Immediately Page 67 of the Reference Handbook will open, and you’ll see the following highlighted definition: The elastic modulus (also called modulus of elasticity, Young’s modulus) describes the relationship between engineering stress and engineering strain during elastic loading. But this definition is not what we are searching for. We are searching for the numerical values of the modulus of elasticity of steel, not its definition. Then what do you do?

4. The easiest way would be clicking the ENTER key or NEXT key on the dialog box again, then you’ll see another reference on page 67.

5. Clicking the ENTER/NEXT key again, will open the page 88 of the reference handbook.

6. If you keep clicking the ENTER/ NEXT key several more times, you’ll see references on other pages as well and finally the unpleasant message “Acrobat has finished searching the document. No matches were found.”

Now let us try to use another term as the search word in the dialog box for the Modulus of Elasticity, that is: Young’s Modulus. Once you enter “Young’s Modulus” and hit the ENTER key repeatedly, you’ll see references on Pages 246 and 248 of the Mechanical Engineering section of the handbook. Still we are not getting the numerical values. If you keep clicking the ENTER/NEXT key repeatedly, you’ll see references on several pages of the handbook and finally, BINGO! You’ll see the page that you’re looking for, the “Typical Materials Properties Table” on Page 89.

And lastly, we remind our readers that the F.E. and P.E. are very fast-paced exams and you will have little time to look up information. Therefore, make sure you are familiar with the electronic and hard-copy versions of the FE Reference Handbook. This will help you to build your confidence and conquer  the exam on your first attempt!

Good Luck,

Ahmet Zeytinci (Dr.Z.)
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

As stated by the famous mathematician and astronomer Leonhard Euler: “Nothing happens in the universe not relying on the rules of maximum or minimum.” The use of the mathematical term of optimization can be identified to the era of great mathematicians, physicists and astronomers like Cauchy, Lagrange, Kepler and Newton while minimization was presented a lot prior by Euclid. Notwithstanding these early advancements, engineers discovered the value of optimization not before 1950 when research innovation on optimization algorithms was supported by computing power. Nevertheless, civil engineers remain skeptical in incorporating optimization in their professional practices.

Trial and error vs optimization

The first production-worthy light globe was the outcome of a long and repetitive trial-and-error procedure by Thomas Edison for identifying the optimal material. While Edison had limited knowledge on material properties as electrical resistance and conductance, modern engineers present remarkable technical experience and knowledge that empowers them to deliver high-quality designs based on their expertise. Designs’ weaknesses are detected via testing and are corrected through experience-based make-it-and-break-it procedures.

Advancements in available computing hardware technology and software enabled the development of numerical prototypes of designs, used for performance assessment prior to construction while time and cost efficiency of the trial and error phase was improved. It is worth pointing out that there exist two constraints that restrict further efficiency improvement. The first one is the significant workload demand for interpretation of design cycles of the trial and error approach. The second factor concerns the balance between project complexity and uniqueness versus human intuition. The physical limitations of the human brain in combinatoratorial calculations have been exceeded by the computational abilities of available hardware technology. The inventive solutions of engineers are limited by time and cost but could be assisted in achieving near-optimal design solutions in an algorithmic manner.

The added value created by improved productivity and production of near-optimal solutions establish the need for algorithmic aid in structural design. The added value is generated by reducing design cost and time while increasing responsible material usage, eco-friendliness and construction cost efficiency of projects. Numerical optimization is the means of transportation from a far-optimal design to a near-optimal one with respect to predefined parameters, restrictions and goals.

Optimization in the engineering profession

Since the 1960’s many research studies on applied structural design optimization have been published, where structural design optimization was effective in various problems. However, civil engineers (especially structural engineers) seem susceptible to applying optimization-based design procedures. Nevertheless, mechanical and aerospace engineers have already adopted optimization into their profession practice. For instance, in the automotive industry, BMW has adopted optimization procedures in the development of new diesel engines. While in the aeronautic industry, Airbus used a design optimization approach for developing the wings of the aircraft A380.

First steps of optimization in AECI, what is the benefit

Aiming to identify the benefits of adopting optimization-based structural engineering by the Architectural, Engineering & Construction Industry (AECI), it is important to underline that: (i) The Building Sector (BS) is the higher contributor to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (30% of GHG emissions) while it also consumes almost 40% of global energy, 25% of global water, 40% of global resources, (ii) BS estimated worth is around 10% of the global GDP (USD 7.5 trillion) with more than 120 million people employed, whereas (iii) AECI is expected to expand by 85% to USD 15.5 trillion worldwide in 2030, with U.S., China and India accounting for almost 60% of this growth. With respect to the above issues, the question for AECI is: “To optimize, or not to optimize?”. The answer to this question is straightforward, definitely Yes; if AECI adopts design optimization principles the environmental impact and economic development of AECI is expected to be severe. More specifically, a hypothetical scenario of 10% average material usage reduction is achieved on 5% of the project volume of AECI, the cost reduction translates to USD 15.0 billion for 2016; while the environmental benefit translates to 6.0 million metric tons of CO2 reduction, equal to the annual emission of cities like Pittsburgh, Paris, Milan or Athens.

Worth noticing are the pioneering steps in the field of structural engineering design optimization performed by OptiStructure, a startup recently established in London UK, that aims to institute value engineering revolution in AECI via structural design optimization. OptiStructure optimization services have recently been applied to a 535 meters high-rise reinforced concrete building, to be constructed in the Persian Gulf area. The environmental benefit achieved by the optimized design delivered corresponds to 12.7% and 11.2% reduction on GHG CO2 emissions and energy consumption, respectively; while cost reduction of 8% was achieved that corresponds to USD 6.8 million.

Construction technology leaders are preparing for a massive storm of innovation as the AECI moves to a digital era. As optimization represents a pillar of digitizing construction and BIM technology, we expect that structural engineering will undergo a lot of changes in the near future. OptiStructure since its inception has been present in Singapore, Indonesia, India, United Arab Emirates, Greece, UK, Mexico and the USA looking constantly to expand its reach and impact. If you are interested in partnering with OptiStructure, please do not hesitate to contact me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via our LinkedIn page at https://www.linkedin.com/company/optistructure/, and https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikos-lagaros-086323/ anytime. We are constantly looking for new partners.

About the Author

Prof. Nikos D. Lagaros is the Dean of the School of Civil Engineering at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Greece and advisor at OptiStructure.

The COVID-19 pandemic has touched every corner of our lives including the FE and PE exams. In this month’s article we would like to list some of the questions regarding taking the exams during COVID-19 and what you are expected to do during taking the Fundamentals of Engineering (F.E) exam.

The most frequently asked questions about taking tests during the Covid-19 pandemic

When will test centers reopen? Why can’t I find appointment availability? Can I travel to a different state/jurisdiction to take my test? Am I required to wear a face mask? I would like to take my exam sooner. Is that possible? Why has my exam been moved to another location? Why was my exam canceled? My exam was canceled, but my friend’s exam wasn’t. Why is that? Will I get a refund if my exam is canceled? When can I reschedule my exam? Where can I find test delivery information specific to my country? I am scheduled to take my exam at a third-party test center, and I’m worried it is going to be closed. What should I do? Why was my cancellation notice so delayed? My window to certify is expiring soon. What should I do? What health and safety measures are you taking at your test centers? How can I find the latest information on test delivery during this pandemic?

The answers to these questions and more are given at Pearson VUE website: https://home.pearsonvue.com/coronavirus-update.aspx#face-masks

When approaching the FE Exam for the first time, it’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed. The best way to build your confidence is to prepare for the test and familiarize yourself with the FE Reference Handbook 10, the only official reference material for the computer-based FE exams. Review the latest version of the handbook prior to exam day. Most importantly, familiarize yourself with the charts, formulas, tables, and other reference information provided. An electronic version will be available onscreen during the actual exam. Printed copies will not be allowed in the exam room.

Exam day experience

Once you register and know your exam date, NCEES recommends the following: First, you should plan to arrive at the testing center 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. Upon arrival, a representative will provide you with a copy of NCEES-CBT exam rules for your review.

After doing so, you will be asked to provide your digital signature to confirm that you have read the rules and agreed to abide by them. Also you will be asked to provide a current government issued form of ID such as a driver’s license. Once the representative confirmed your identification and the exam that you are taking, you will be asked to provide palm vein scan and have your photo taken. Your signature, palm vein scan and photo will be stored with your exam result.

Prior to be admitted into the testing room, a representative will ensure that you have in your possession only the items that NCEES allows them to the testing room. These items include, your ID, an NCEES approved calculator and eye glasses. Most test centers have secure storage lockers on site for you to store prohibited items such as cell phones, other electronic devices and personal belongings such as a watch, wallet and bag.

Once you complete the check in process, then you report to an exam proctor who will ask you to confirm your ID by providing again your palm vein scan. Then the proctor will give you a reusable booklet and marker for scratch work. Then the proctor will review the exam rules and will escort you to the exam room and assigned workstation and launches the exam. Before starting your exam, all examinees will be required to read and agree to the NCEES’ non-disclosure agreement and complete a brief tutorial to learn how to ADVANCE to the next item, RETURN to a previous item and FLAG items for review.

The FE exam includes 110-questions. The exam appointment time is 6 hours long. Nondisclosure agreement (2 minutes); Tutorial (8 minutes); Actual exam (5 hours and 20 minutes) and scheduled break (25 minutes).

After completing approximately 55 questions, examinees will be prompted on screen with the option to take a 25-minute break. Examinees who wish to take the scheduled break should raise their hands and wait for the prompter tor assistance. Unscheduled breaks may be requested at any time during the exam by following the same procedure. However, examinees should be aware that clock will not stop during an unscheduled break. Examinees are allowed to access their lockers during the scheduled and unscheduled breaks.

After completing the exam and a brief survey, you should raise your hands and proctor will verify that you had properly exited from exam and escort you from testing room and collect your booklet and marker. You will receive an email from NCEES within 7 to 10 days notifying you that your results are available for viewing in your MYNCEES account.

And lastly, stay relaxed and confident. Always keep a good attitude and remind yourself that you are going to do your best!

Until next time,
Ahmet Zeytinci (Dr. Z.)
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

This month we have a surprise from Norway! As the readers of Dr. Z’s Corner know, quite often, we invite world-famous scholars and engineers to share their knowledge and wisdom with our readers in this column. This month’s guest author is the Co-Editor of Dr. Z’s Corner and my good friend Prof. Dr. Vagelis Plevris. He will talk about a new technology called BLOCKCHAIN.

Bitcoin: The first implementation of Blockchain

In 2008, Satoshi Nakamoto introduced Bitcoin to the world. In his paper “Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System” he explained the idea of a system for electronic transactions that does not rely on trust, in other words a “trusted third party” is no longer needed. Nakamoto was the first to solve the double-spending problem for digital currency, proposing a novel idea based on a peer-to-peer network using proof-of-work to record a public history of transactions.

Although the name Satoshi Nakamoto is nearly synonymous with Bitcoin, the physical person that name represents has never been found. The real identity of Nakamoto still remains a matter of dispute.

Nakamoto proposed a decentralized approach to transactions, ultimately culminating in the creation of blockchains. In a blockchain, timestamps for a transaction are added to the end of previous timestamps based on proof-of-work, creating a historical record. Because the record of transactions is distributed across many nodes in the system, it is practically impossible for a bad actor to gain enough control of the system to rewrite the ledger to their own advantage. The blockchain records are kept secure because the amount of computational power required to reverse them is enormous. This technology allows bitcoin to transfer value across the globe without resorting to traditional intermediaries such as banks.

Bitcoin, with a market cap of more than $170 billion, is the largest implementation of Blockchain technology to date. The first Bitcoin transaction in the real world occurred in May 2010 when a Florida man paid for pizzas with the cryptocurrency. The man paid 10,000 Bitcoins for two pizzas, which today is worth over $100 million!

General purpose technologies

General purpose technologies (GPTs) are technologies that can affect an entire economy. They impact economic growth and transform both household life and the ways in which firms conduct business. They have the potential to drastically alter societies through their impact on pre-existing economic and social structures. Examples of GPTs include the steam engine, electricity, the computer and the internet. These technologies fundamentally impacted how we live, expanded our lives (physically and emotionally), helped build our cities and changed how we interact with the world.

Blockchain as GPT

Distributed Ledger Technology or simply Blockchain is a nascent technology that can simplify and secure transactions among parties. It is a shared, immutable ledger that facilitates the process of recording transactions and tracking assets in a network. By many, it is recognized as a new form of GPT. Naturally, it takes time for a GPT to diffuse through the economy. Although Blockchain is still at the infrastructure building stage, it is expected to unleash several applications across different verticals within the next 5 to 15 years. Like the internet in its early years, Blockchain is hard to understand and predict, but could become ubiquitous in the exchange of digital and physical goods, information, and online platforms. According to Harvard Business Review “Blockchain is the first native digital medium for value, just as the internet was the first native digital medium for information.”

How Blockchain can revolutionize the construction industry

Blockchain technology is new and there are several early challenges to tackle, but the potential of reshaping the construction industry for the better is too great to miss. Construction is one of the largest industries in the world and the infrastructure it creates is the backbone of economic growth and productivity. It is our inherent responsibility to facilitate its digital transformation to make it ready for the challenges of the future. Blockchain can be applied to several areas of the construction industry:

Contract Management: A Smart Contract is a computer program that works on an “if/then” principle. Smart contracts can identify accountabilities and trigger milestone-based payments. They could automate agreements thus revolutionizing construction contracts and payments.

Project management: Projects can benefit from a more decentralized and agile approach based on Blockchain, where transparency is high, and parties can be compensated for outcomes as well as for work performed.

Construction supply chain management: Blockchain can help trace physical items from origin to destination. It can improve payment settlements, compliance management and material planning, while smart contracts can be used to automatically purchase, track, and verify items in the supply chain, in real-time.

Building information modelling (BIM): Blockchain can be used to provide live and trustworthy information for BIM, by information sharing among present and future information owners. Furthermore, it can help enhance the benefits of BIM by allowing architects and engineers to design on the same BIM model with clear ownership, while design and construction decisions can be recorded on the blockchain for future analysis and liability.

Property ownership and land titles: All real estate ownership and transaction records can be stored securely as tamper-proof digital records on the Blockchain. Such records are fully accurate, safe, and immutable. Blockchain immutability proves ownership and facilitates transactions.

Asset management and maintenance: Data and information related to the built asset need to be tracked at every stage of its life cycle. Blockchain provides a living ledger of everything that has happened with the asset. Blockchain can allow tracking and access to all the necessary data throughout the asset life cycle. Any improvements and refurbishments to the building can be documented, and the whole repository can be transferred to new owners if the asset is put up for sale.

Blockchain in construction: An exciting future ahead

We are moving to a digital economy where financial and physical assets will increasingly have digital representations. Looking towards the future, Blockchain is going to be something that we will be hearing a lot more of. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2025, Blockchains will store around 10% of the world’s GDP. Countries are trying to make the necessary legislative and regulatory changes to adapt to the new environment and make this change a reality. New opportunities arise. Blockchain has great potential to become an extremely positive force of change in the construction industry.

About the Author

Dr. Vagelis Plevris is a Professor at the Department of Civil Engineering and Energy Technology of Oslo Metropolitan University in Oslo, Norway. He is the Head of the Research Group “Structural Engineering” at OsloMet. He serves as Chief Editor for “Computational Methods in Structural Engineering”, a section of the journal Frontiers in Built Environment, by Frontiers in Switzerland.