What condition must be met for an engineer to perform work in a different area of engineering?

For an engineer to perform work in a different area of engineering, obtaining a relevant Certificate of Authorization (CoA) is essential. This certification demonstrates that the engineer has the necessary qualifications and is authorized to practice in that specific discipline. The CoA is granted by the regulatory body, and it signifies adherence to the standards and regulations that govern the practice of engineering in that area.

In many jurisdictions, regulatory bodies require engineers to obtain a CoA to ensure that they are recognized for their expertise and capability in the new field, thus promoting professional integrity and public safety. This requirement helps maintain the high standards of practice within the engineering profession, enabling engineers to undertake responsibilities confidently while adhering to the regulations applicable to the new area of expertise.

Simply being a graduate in the field, possessing a specific number of years of experience, or having a mentor does not fully validate an engineer's ability to practice in a different engineering discipline. Each of these conditions may hold significance but does not independently establish the necessary authorization to work professionally in a new area.