Consulting Engineers of Alberta - Strategic Priorities

Working the Plan: 2011 - 2012

future of consulting engineers of alberta

Alberta has always been a great place to work and live, with the exception of a few economic downturns generally not of our making. It is of our belief that if you can compete in the Alberta marketplace you can be successful anywhere in the world.

The passing of the Consulting Engineers of Alberta Act that was proclaimed on April 28, 1993, clearly states “the purpose of the Act is to provide the vehicle for the consulting engineering industry on Alberta to add value to the Alberta economy by enhancing the development, management and marketing of technology for the benefit of Society.” The Bill for the CEA Act demonstrates the Alberta government’s recognition of the importance of the consulting engineering industry and the role it plays in society, how we ensure public safety and as an advocate for their interests. This is a role not to be treated lightly.

What has changed over the recent time and what is disturbing is the slow and gradual “dumbing down” of the profession. We do not believe it is intentional. Everyone uses the word “Professional” to describe their activities, but few take on the responsibility and liability for their actions to ensure public safety. The consulting engineering industry, through its regulatory provision, is responsible and liable for its actions and cannot transfer this responsibility to other third parties. Thus we cannot continue to “dumb down” the industry and expect it to be responsive, grow and attract young people to expand to meet the challenge ahead for Alberta.

Under the leadership of Jeff DiBattista, President 2010-2011, CEA endeavored to address a multi-year strategic vision and plan that ensured CEA resources were being utilized tactically and efficiently and that its goals/priorities were met. For the past 16 months the Board of Directors and CEA staff has worked assiduously to generate the five strategic priorities and the new vision-mission-values we see today. Now that the priorities are in place we now must implement them – we must work the plan! We hope that this document will be a living document where it serves as a guiding light to CEA in affecting the business world around us.

Your support of CEA’s strategic plan and the implementation of the five strategic priorities through your concrete actions will help ensure that we as an industry are valued for the professional services we provide!

Sincerely, Sincerely,

Gord Johnston, P.Eng. Ken Pilip, P.Eng.
President, 2011-2012 CEO + Registrar