A continuing education program without education is just another interruption or distraction in the life of most practicing engineers.  One of the most overlooked or perhaps least understood motivator for continuing education is the market we serve.  There is no way we can perform our jobs as engineers in private practice without maintaining competency.  The private market does not tolerate us not knowing about, advising on and implementing current codes, regulations and engineering practices.  We as a body already are investing countless hours and money in the pursuit of our profession.  CODES - we are expected by our customers and the public agencies we deal with to provide proper interpretation and implementation of these public safety standards.  REGULATIONS - here is something that you have to experience on almost a daily basis as they vary by town, city and state agency - talk about an educational learning opportunity!  And then there are ENGINEERING PRACTICES where current development in techniques, standards and software are constantly evolving.  If continuing education is to provide us the ability to increase our skills so we can better serve and protect the public then we deserve to be treated to the best there is to offer.  Slick gimmicky legislation whereby non-professionals can say they have done a wonderful job by mandating increased public safety while failing to provide subject specific content is insulting.