Professional development is often categorised as 'initial' or
'continuing'. In the formation of a professional engineer or
technician, IPD usually means development before becoming
registered. This is when aspiring professionals learn to apply
knowledge and understanding, develop skills and competence, and
begin to apply professional judgement. Through it they become
able to demonstrate the necessary competence and commitment to
become professionally qualified with the Engineering Council.
Many people carry out their IPD through structured programmes
such as an apprenticeship or a graduate training scheme. Many
of these are accredited or approved by one or more of the
professional engineering institutions (PEIs). This means that
the objectives of the programmes have been judged to be aligned
with the standards for professional qualification and that
individuals' development is recorded.
Enquiries about whether a particular programme is accredited or
approved should be directed to the relevant professional
engineering institution.
However, many people undertake their IPD outside formally
structured programmes. Anyone in this position should contact
their chosen PEI for advice and guidance about the sorts of
development records they should keep.