Late last week the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) filed a notice to appeal to the Alberta Court of Appeal regarding Honourable Justice J.S. Little’s dismissal of APEGA’s request for an injunction against Getty Images and Jobber on their use of the title “engineer.”
According to the APEGA, the court’s interpretation of the Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act has the potential to lead to increased use of the title “engineer,” regardless of whether the title is being used as part of a recognized engineering discipline, and it will significantly undermine APEGA’s ability to effectively regulate the engineering profession.
Therefore, APEGA seeks clarity through this appeal on the permissible use of the title “engineer,” citing concerns for public safety and professional integrity.
“Public trust in engineering is built around the title ‘engineer,’ which is associated with a standard of excellence, a commitment to the public interest, and an adherence to a code of ethics. Ensuring titles are not used in a way that is misleading is pivotal in protecting Albertans, which is the driving force behind our decision to appeal,” says Jay Nagendran, P.Eng., APEGA registrar and CEO.
The APEGA feels that misuse of the title “engineer” could lead to public confusion and may cause individuals and businesses to unknowingly hire or rely on individuals who are not qualified to practise engineering.
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