During the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors' Regular Quarterly Board Meeting on February 16, 2024, a significant concern was raised regarding engineers practicing outside their areas of expertise. Steve Kanetsky, a licensed electrical engineer with over 40 years of experience, presented alarming examples that highlight the potential dangers and legal ramifications of this issue.

Kanetsky detailed a troubling incident involving a civil engineering firm that designed emergency generators for a water supply corporation. The project, which was nearly complete, faced a $3 million lawsuit due to the involvement of a mechanical engineer who lacked the necessary qualifications for electrical design. This situation not only jeopardized the project but also left the water utility with $2 million worth of non-operational generators, underscoring the critical need for engineers to work within their licensed disciplines.

He further illustrated his point with examples from ongoing projects, including a $40 million water treatment plant where the lead engineer was 91 years old and the project engineer was unlicensed. Kanetsky expressed concern that such practices could lead to catastrophic failures, putting public safety at risk.

The board members acknowledged Kanetsky's passionate plea for stricter regulations that would require engineers to be licensed specifically by their discipline. They emphasized the importance of filing complaints against those who violate these standards, as it is essential for maintaining ethical practices within the engineering community.

The discussions at this meeting reflect a growing awareness of the need for regulatory reform in Texas to ensure that engineering practices are safe, ethical, and effective. As the board considers these concerns, the implications for public safety and industry integrity remain paramount. The call for change is clear, and stakeholders are encouraged to engage in the process to enhance the standards governing engineering practices in Texas.