Holt initiated into Order of the Engineer

Richard Holt, P.E., manager of our Pulaski, Tennessee office, is an initiated member of the Order of the Engineer.  This is a prestigious organization that fosters a spirit of pride and responsibility in the engineering profession. The organization also bridges the gap between training and experience and presents a visible symbol identifying the engineer to the public. 

The first ceremony was held June 4, 1970 at Cleveland State University. Since then, the ceremony has been held for engineering graduates across the country by Links of the Order: meaning local sections. According to their website, the Order fosters a unity of purpose and the honoring of one’s lifelong pledge. The Obligation is a creed similar to the oath attributed to Hippocrates (460-377 B.C.) that is generally taken by medical graduates and which sets forth an ethical code. The Obligation, likewise, contains parts of the Canon of Ethics of major engineering societies. Initiates, as they accept it voluntarily, pledge to uphold the standards and dignity of the engineering profession and to serve humanity by making the best use of Earth’s precious wealth.

In the United States, after taking the oath, members wear The Engineer’s Ring, a stainless-steel ring, on the fifth finger of the working hand. This signifies that the engineer has accepted the Obligation of an Engineer in a ring ceremony. Holt has worn his ring since graduating from college at Tennessee Tech University.  His alma mater is one of six universities that have links in Tennessee to the Order of the Engineer. When people ask about his ring, he shares its significance and explains why he wears it on his pinky finger.

“I also work with other engineers who wear the ring, and it is a great conversation starter,” said Holt. “Many engineers who wear the ring are typically from the north and northeast. They are typically surprised that engineers in the south wear the ring. Our conversations turn out to be a fun discussion about the north and south.” 

The ceremony was so memorable for Holt. It was even more meaningful than his college graduation ceremony. For almost 30 years, he still reflects on the oath he took at the ring ceremony: 

Oath of the Order of the Engineer: 

I am an Engineer. In my profession, I take deep pride. To it I owe solemn obligations. As an Engineer, I pledge to practice integrity and fair dealing, tolerance and respect; and to uphold devotion to the standards and the dignity of my profession, conscious always that my skill carries with it the obligation to serve humanity by making the best use of the Earth’s precious wealth. As an Engineer, I shall participate in none but honest enterprises. When needed, my skill and knowledge shall be given without reservation for the public good. In the performance of duty and fidelity to my profession, I shall give my utmost.

As a manager at Sain, Richard wants people to know they are working with an engineer who is dedicated to upholding the utmost ethical standards in the industry and profession.  Holt added, “I am proud to represent Sain Associates in this way.”