@jamrock411 said this on another forum: http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/discussion/comment/19859290#Comment_19859290
In some (most/all?) states, licensed professional engineers can “sealed” architectural plans or do pretty much anything architects can do. In the real world, we have draftsmen develop architectural plans and pay a small fee to have the PEs seal their plans. Engineers who have acquired “good” architectural skills are better prepared than architects, providing full service to their clients, since they can design mechanical (HVAC), fire protection, and plumbing systems.
Is this true?
This is absolutely not true. I am a construction project manager and I hire both engineers and architects on a regular basis.
Here is the truth: Architects focus on whole building design. When I am building a new building, one of the first steps is to hire the architect. I get the architect and the owner together to discuss the owners vision for what they want in a new building. The architect then puts this into a sketch (a concept drawing). Once the owner accepts the concept I request sealed plans from the architect. The architect draws the “architectural” portion of these plans (The aesthetic items). The architect then sub contracts a variety of different engineers to produce engineering plans. A civil, mechanical, and electrical engineer will all produce different sections of the plans. Then the architect turns back over to me the completed set of plans. The architects duties also extend to approving change orders, pay applications, and acting as go between with contractors. The architect designs what the building will “look” like and the engineers design the mechanical and structural systems.
In short, an architect is involved with the whole process whereas an engineer only touches one small piece. When you look at a set of as builts or blue prints, the name and credentials that you will see on the front page are always those of the architect and never the engineer. I have never come across an engineer who I felt could do the work of an architect. If you used an engineer to design a building you would end up with one ugly building.
For more career related articles check out my weekly blog at www.the-undergrad.com. I will be writing a detailed blog on this subject soon.
Joe Earl, www.the-undergrad.com