Continuing Professional Development Opportunities with NAFE

Paul Angelides has functioned as president of the Syosset, New York, engineering firm Paul J. Angelides, PE, PC, since 1987. In addition to his work at the firm, he spends time engaging with professional organizations such as the National Academy of Forensic Engineers.

The National Academy of Forensic Engineers (NAFE) represents the ethical and professional interests of the nation’s forensic engineering industry. NAFE presents members with an array of valuable resources and professional services, including opportunities for continuing professional development (CPD). The organization makes 28 credit hours available to members each year at two-day educational seminars held in the summer and winter. CDP credits are recognized in New York, Florida, and North Carolina, though certificates may be accepted in audition submissions in other states.

CDP opportunities are generally categorized as either Regular NAFE Seminars or Special NAFE Seminars. Regular CDP opportunities present members with 10 technical papers on a number of modern forensic engineering subjects over the course of a full day. Individuals who complete a regular seminar receive seven CDP credits. Special seminars, meanwhile, emphasize specific areas of the industry, and are also worth seven credits.

More information regarding CDP opportunities with NAFE can be found online at www.nafe.org.

Earning an Extra Class Amateur Radio License

Paul Angelides founded Paul J. Angelides, PE PC, the private engineering firm in Syosset, New York, where he serves as president, in 1987. In his leisure time, he continues to pursue his decades-long hobby of amateur radio operation with an FCC Extra Class License.

Most people starting out in amateur radio operation take the Written Element 2 exam to receive their Technician Class license, which does not require knowledge of Morse code. Passing the Written Element 3 exam qualifies the operator for reception of the General Class license. These exams must be completed before a team of volunteer examiners (VEs).

Anyone with a General Class amateur radio license may upgrade to the Extra Class License by taking a multiple-choice examination, the Written Element 4 exam. Those who pass the 50-question exam and receive their Extra Class license can transmit on all Amateur Service frequencies.

Many amateur radio hobbyists choose to take this additional step to give them greater freedom since General Class frequencies often become quite busy. Resources to prepare for taking the Extra Class exam include the 2016 edition of the ARRL Extra Class License Manual, which sets the standards through June 2020.