“In Canada, all Engineering comes under the umbrella of a “profession”, likewise medicine, nursing, architects, etc. Similarly, you can’t call yourself a “doctor” or a “nurse” in Canada if you don’t have the credentials. “
It is the same in the US. The problem, particularly in engineering, is that it is regulated by individual states. There is no smooth mechanism for reciprocity between states - and it is really just a fee-extracting exercise.
Engineering boards do not care about the profession in the US - and so they do not enforce standards consistently and do not keep up with technological developments.
Try hanging out your shingle as a doctor or a lawyer or CPA - you won’t last two weeks before you are fined and threatened with criminal prosecution if you do not stop.
Unfortunately, the engineering profession, while covered by statute and law like other professions, we are not respected because many people think they can “prove themselves” without experiencing the academic rigor required to become an engineer. They point to Bill Gates, or whomever - very successful people and businessmen, but they do not get to call themselves “Engineer” - because they are not Engineers.
This is the way it is done - for no other reason than to know who is responsible when something goes wrong. Some one has to say “I’m responsible”.
If we want to build bridges, buildings, machines, and power plants without consideration for how it is done, then we can dispense with the title. If we don’t, the various state regulatory entities should take the profession seriously, make it easier for truly qualified folks to cross state lines, and adapt the profession to fast-growing technology.
Right now we’re in a sort of professional limbo as engineers. If someone objects that it is unreasonable that they cannot legally be called an “engineer” - they may have a point, because those that regulate the profession, through their actions (or inaction), show they do not care to do anything but collect fees for licensing.
Right now the legal term “engineer” lacks the prestige of other professions (but still has some prestige or unqualified people would not seek out the title) and stands to identify who gets sued if something goes wrong.
I still recommend engineers pursue the professional credentials, but I increasingly ask “why”?
Another point...As a retired PEng, by law, I am held responsible for my designs 25years after the fact. I suppose I should be monitoring them in my retirement to protect myself, but I'm not. (he said....crossing his fingers). Fortunately, most electrical systems are replaced or modified long before that.
This is the way it is done - for no other reason than to know who is responsible when something goes wrong. Some one has to say “I’m responsible”.
What planet are you from? Everyone knows it will always be George Bush's fault.
Some might say that determining "responsibility" is a matter left up to the courts.
I still recommend engineers pursue the professional credentials, but I increasingly ask “why”?
From your earlier comments it looks like you already know why - you are for returning to the Medieval Ages where the Guilds controlled economic life. If you weren't a member of a particular Guild and pay tribute, no matter how brilliant or talented, Apprentice or maybe Journeyman would be your best title.
America now hates individual accomplishment and will do anything to stomp it out.