Initial Professional Development (IPD) refers to the workplace development that takes place before becoming professionally registered.
This is when aspiring professionals learn to apply their knowledge and understanding, develop their skills and competence, and begin to apply professional judgement. IPD enables engineers and technicians to demonstrate the necessary competence and commitment to become registered with the Engineering Council.
Many carry out their IPD through structured programmes such as an apprenticeship or a graduate training scheme. These employer schemes may be accredited or approved by one or more of the Licensed Professional Engineering Institutions (PEIs). This means that the programme or scheme’s objectives align with our following standards for professional registration.
It also means that any professional development that takes place during the programme will be recorded, which is crucial for demonstrating competence at professional review. Our IPD Policy Statement explains accreditation and approval, and the process Licensed PEIs undertake in considering schemes for accreditation.
You can ask your Licensed PEI about IPD programmes that they approve or accredit, and get advice on how to record your professional development. However, you may choose to carry out your IPD independently of a formally structured programme. If you are looking to take this approach, please familiarise yourself with the Standard for your chosen title.
You should also make your employer and Licensed PEI aware that you are looking to work towards professional registration as they can support and guide you through the process and the type of development records to keep.
Whichever route you take, it is good practice to plan, record and review your IPD activities as this will smooth the process of applying for professional registration. While some Licensed PEIs offer their own forms, or online planning and recording systems, others offer Engineering Council’s mycareerpath® Professional Development System.
Search for your Licensed PEI ›
Find the right institution for you and learn about your membership options.
Our Standards ›
Our Standards provide a framework for the assessment of the engineering competence and commitment required for professional registration.
mycareerpath® ›
Our online professional development system, adopted by many Licensed PEIs for use by their members.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) ›
CPD has several purposes which will vary in relation to your circumstances, needs and career progression.
FAQs ›
Want to find out more? Take a look at our most frequently asked questions.
The professional titles ›
Take a look at the professional titles you can obtain to achieve the benefits of becoming professionally registered.