To the Members of the Board,

The writer, an active licensed Professional engineer in Virginia, Connecticut and New York, is a firm believer in continuing education for the professionals under your jurisdiction, but past experiences have me wonder whose interest is being taken care of by forcing these professionals to go back to "school".

If the given courses will contribute to the knowledge of the individual (a better educated person, who can serve his or her client in a better way), then I am all for a continued education.

However, if the courses to be taken will not contribute to the betterment of these professionals, but only will add to the pockets of educational institutions, who in many instances have employed educators, who know less about a subject they are supposed to teach than the folks sitting in front of them for an 8 hour period, then I am opposed to adding this burden to the professional society of Virginia.

Being taught how the Brooklyn Bridge was built in the late 1800's, the Eiffel tower was constructed in the same time period or the Chrysler Building or the Empire State Building in the 1930's really does not help anyone becoming a better professional.  This material may enhance the knowledge of an individual, but it will not move his or her professional skill into the 21st century, being able to serve his or her client with up to date techniques and streamlined design methods

If your Board cannot guarantee that these continued education courses would enhance the profession, I strongly suggest that you do not introduce such a program.

Sincerely yours,

Rudi J. van Leeuwen

VAPE 03580