ASCE Introduces a Book on the Future of the Engineering Profession

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has published a new book, "Raise the Bar," edited by Jeffrey S. Russell and Thomas A. Lenox. This book provides engineering educators and practitioners with a synopsis of the initiative to redefine the preparation of the engineer of the 21st century.

The ASCE has articulated the position that, in the future, education beyond the baccalaureate degree would be necessary for entry into the professional practice of civil engineering. Through a variety of efforts, including the development and implementation of a civil engineering Body of Knowledge, changes in accreditation criteria, and modification of state laws for licensure, ASCE has been a leading advocate in changing the way we prepare today's engineering students to be tomorrow's civil engineers.

"Raise the Bar" contains 10 papers recording the history and evaluating the effectiveness of ASCE's "Raise the Bar" initiative. These papers include current and accurate information about the broad areas of professionalism, the Body of Knowledge, curricula and experiential development, accreditation, and licensing. They provide a foundation for future efforts to change the education and practice of civil engineering.