Order of the Engineer
The Order of the Engineer is a national professional organization created to foster a spirit of pride and responsibility in the engineering profession, to bridge the gap between training and experience, and to present to the public a visible symbol identifying the engineer. Members of the Order take an oath and wear a stainless-steel ring on the pinky finger of their dominant hand to remind them of their ethical obligations to the profession. To learn more, visit the Order of the Engineer.
Each institution that inducts new members is called a Link. University of Wisconsin-Platteville is Link #11 and was established as an Order institution on May 22, 1975. Today, there are more than 300 active Links in the United States.
Graduating seniors in engineering programs are eligible to join the Order of the Engineer. A ceremony is held each semester on the same day as commencement during which inductees take their oath together and receive their rings and certificates.
Are you a graduating senior and wish to join the order?
See UPCOMING EVENTS for date-specific details, including deadlines and sign up.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is eligible to join the Order?
Graduating seniors in civil engineering, electrical engineering, engineering physics, environmental engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, and software engineering, including students enrolled in the UW-Platteville Engineering Partnership Programs, are eligible to join the Order. Students completing the Master of Engineering distance education program are also eligible.
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Is there a cost associated with joining the Order?
Yes. There is a one-time fee of $20. This cost covers your membership, ring, certificate, and oath card. You are also invited to participate in the induction ceremony.
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How do I pay?
Please bring to the CenterPOINT (355 Sesquicentennial Hall) the fee of $20 in exact cash (we will not have change) or write a check to UW-Platteville – Order of Engineer and bring to the CenterPOINT.
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How do I know what size ring to get?
The ring is worn on the pinky finger of the dominant hand. Ring sizers are available at CenterPOINT (355 Sesquicentennial Hall). The ring should fit snugly enough that it won’t easily slide off during normal wear, but loose enough to come on and off. If you are at distance and can’t come in for sizing, you can visit a local jeweler, or utilize an online sizing guide.
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Can I use a ring I made myself?
Some students may have the opportunity to make their own rings as a class project. You may use a hand-crafted ring if you would like, however, please note that you will still be required to pay the $20 membership fee and should still complete the online membership form to sign up.
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What if my ring is the wrong size?
You can exchange your ring for a different size for no additional cost if you still have your original ring. Ring exchanges can be done at CenterPOINT (355 Sesquicentennial Hall).
If you need to exchange your ring, please send an email to OrderOfTheEngineer@uwplatt.edu and provide details of the correct size and a postal address. A postage-paid and pre-addressed envelope will be included in the package so that you may return the other ring.
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What if I lost my ring?
Replacement rings can be ordered for a cost of $20 by completing the online form.
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What can I expect at the ceremony?
Please dress in business professional attire. You may also choose to wear your cap and gown if you wish. Guests are invited to attend to watch the induction. Refreshments are served afterward. The ceremony is typically held in Ullsvik Hall, Velzy Commons. During the in-person ceremony, you will come forward individually to sign your name on the register and accept your certificate. You will then recite the oath obligation and put on your rings together as a group.
Those who have completed the sign up and have paid their fees will receive a calendar invitation which may be shared with others.
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Commencement
View details for commencement ceremonies.