The Iron Ring is a symbol of pride and commitment among engineers in Canada, and the Order of the Engineer is a similar organization in the United States. These organizations serve to remind engineers of their responsibility to society and to uphold ethical standards in their work. If you’re a high school student considering a career in engineering, you may be wondering what the Iron Ring and the Order of the Engineer are all about, and why you might want to participate in the ceremonies associated with these organizations.
The Iron Ring
The Iron Ring is a tradition that began in Canada in 1922, after the collapse of a bridge over the St. Lawrence River caused the deaths of 75 construction workers, many of whom were engineers. To honor the memory of those who lost their lives, a group of Canadian engineers created the Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer, which includes the wearing of a small iron ring on the little finger of the working hand.
The ring is a constant reminder to engineers of their obligation to society and the need to maintain high ethical standards in their work. It is a symbol of the pride and responsibility that comes with being an engineer.
The Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer is a private ceremony that is only open to those who have graduated from an accredited engineering program in Canada. The ceremony is conducted by senior engineers, who present the candidates with their iron rings and administer an oath to uphold the values of the engineering profession.
The Order of the Engineer
The Order of the Engineer is a similar organization in the United States, established in 1970. The organization’s mission is to promote the ethical and moral character of the engineering profession, and to foster a sense of pride and responsibility among engineers.
Like the Iron Ring ceremony, the Order of the Engineer ceremony involves the taking of an oath and the wearing of a ring as a symbol of the engineer’s commitment to ethical behavior and social responsibility. The ring worn by members of the Order of the Engineer is made of stainless steel and is inscribed with the organization’s symbol.
The ceremony is open to engineers who have graduated from an accredited engineering program in the United States, and who have been invited to participate by a current member of the Order of the Engineer.
Why You Should Get Involved
Participating in the Iron Ring or the Order of the Engineer ceremony can be a powerful experience for aspiring engineers. These organizations remind engineers of their responsibility to society and their obligation to maintain high ethical standards in their work. By taking part in the ceremony and wearing the ring, you demonstrate your commitment to the profession and your dedication to the values that make engineering such an important field.
If you’re interested in getting involved, talk to your professors or mentors about how to participate in the Iron Ring or the Order of the Engineer ceremony. You can also learn more about these organizations by visiting their websites:
- The Iron Ring: http://www.ironring.ca/
- The Order of the Engineer: https://www.order-of-the-engineer.org/
Remember, being an engineer is about more than just designing and building things. It’s about making a positive impact on the world and being a responsible member of society. By participating in the Iron Ring or the Order of the Engineer ceremony, you can show your dedication to these values and help build a better future for everyone. I still wear my ring proudly!
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