## The PE pipeline problem NCEES reports that new PE exam attempts have plateaued and a retirement wave is removing experienced PEs faster than the pipeline can replace them — approximately 30,000–40,000 retirements per year vs. 20,000–25,000 new licensees. ## Tightest specializations Structural SE in license states (CA, UT, OR, IL, HI), geotechnical PE, civil PE with transportation focus, and MEP PE with data center specialization. ## How firms are adapting Fractional and part-time retention of retiring PEs. AI tools to extend capacity. Marketplace hiring instead of exclusive search firm relationships. ## What this means for project owners Engineering firm capacity is the new critical path risk. Start conversations earlier. For PE services independently (peer review, permit support), the fractional consulting market is your fastest option. [Find licensed PEs on Buildtal →](/talent/structural-engineering)