Society History and Information

The Beginnings

In 1941, the North Dakota Society of Professional Engineers was established in Jamestown, North Dakota.  It became registered in North Dakota as a non-profit corporation in 1949 and currently operates as a 501 c (6) organization.

Many dedicated professionals have served the Society since its inception. The list of past officers continues to grow.

To honor engineers that have made a significant contribution to the Society or to the profession, NDSPE presents its most distinguished award: the Elwyn F. Chandler award. Recipients of this award include very prominent and honorable professionals. To learn more about the ward and past recipients, click here.

Having served our society for eight years as the Executive Secretary, Mary Nelson was our longest-serving Executive Secretary. At 11 years of continued service, Kevin G. Nelson, PE held the position of NDSPE Secretary/Treasurer more consecutive years than any other member.


Current Membership

Our membership currently consists of approximately 247 engineers, broken down as follows:

PE's
191
EIT's
50
Students
6
Total
247
 
 
Life Members
30
Fellow Grade
3
Retired
3

Membership is comprised of various disciplines, including: chemical, civil, electrical, environmental, forensic, geotechnical, industrial, mechanical, and structural.


Regional Affiliation

NDSPE is part of the North Central Region of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). Other states in our region include South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and Minnesota.


Organization

NDSPE consists of a Board of Directors, four Chapters, five Practice Divisions and several Committees.

Membership in NDSPE includes membership in the national society (NSPE), membership in one of the Practice Divisions, and membership in one of the local Chapters.


NDSPE's Board of Directors consists of the following:

  • - The Society Officers
    • President
    • President-Elect
    • Vice President
    • Secretary/Treasurer
  • - Immediate Past President
  • - National Delegate
  • - The four Chapter Presidents
  • - and the following ex-officio members:
    • NDSU Dean of Engineering
    • UND Dean of Engineering
    • The five Practice Division Chairs
    • Executive Secretary
    • Executive Director of the Board of Registration