John P. Stoppi leverages more than two decades of experience as a fire protection engineer in his current role as principal engineer and chief code consultant for Stoppi Inspection Agency. John P. Stoppi earned a degree in mechanical engineering from The Pennsylvania State University and a master of engineering in fire protection engineering from the University of Maryland.
Fire protection engineers study the causes of fire, and the ways architecture and design can affect the prevention and suppression of fire. To become a fire protection engineer, many people complete the following three steps:
1. Enroll in an accredited engineering program. This training provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this career. Many fire protection engineers have a BS degree in civil, mechanical, chemical, or electrical engineering. This is because there are very view BS degrees focusing on fire protection engineering in the US.
2. Join a firefighting agency. In addition to studying at the college level, many fire protection engineers gain experience as professional or volunteer firefighters. This kind of experience is attractive to fire agencies in the public sector.
3. Get licensed. Finally, fire protection engineers must earn a license by passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam. Each state has its own requirements to sit for either exam. The passing of the PE exam is the culmination of licensure. Engineering licenses are state specific, so most engineers get licensed in more than one state.
John P. Stoppi 