USACE Engineer earns PE, strengthening the mission from the frontlines

KUWAIT – Balancing a high-tempo mission in the U.S. Central Command area of operations with the rigorous demands of professional certification, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Expeditionary District engineer Tanner Cowan pushed himself to new heights—earning his Professional Engineer license while actively supporting critical engineering, design, and construction efforts. His achievement not only marks a personal milestone but also enhances USACE’s ability to deliver engineering excellence in one of the world’s most complex operational environments.

A PE is a licensed engineer who can design and stamp engineering projects in the state(s) where they are licensed. To obtain a PE license, an engineer must meet rigorous educational, experiential, and examination requirements, according to the National Society of Professional Engineers.

As a USACE engineer and Contracting Officer Representative currently working for the Expeditionary District in the U.S. Central Command’s area of operations and supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, Cowan plays a vital role in USACE’s mission of delivering innovative and sustainable engineering solutions in some of the world’s most dynamic environments.

Cowan pursued his PE license, in the state of Oklahoma, not only to grow professionally but also to better support his team and enhance his contributions to USACE.

“I was motivated to pursue the PE license to advance my career and increase the capabilities of my work office. I see it benefiting my work with USACE by being able to provide a higher level of technical oversight on construction projects while also aiding in conversations between engineering and construction,” he said.

Achieving this milestone demanded more than just technical knowledge; it required unwavering focus and an ability to persevere through long hours of preparation, often squeezed into the edges of his busy days. For Cowan, it was a test of discipline and resilience that paid off through sheer effort and commitment.

“The most challenging part of preparing for the PE exam was the time commitment. I studied for five months almost every day, preparing for an hour before my workday and an hour after. This allowed me to utilize the USACE-provided training program to its full extent. I worked through around 750 practice problems in preparation.”

Cowan’s journey to earning his PE license was built on a foundation of real-world experience, where theoretical knowledge met practical application. One project, in particular, became a cornerstone of his preparation, equipping him with the skills and understanding he needed to succeed.

“The project that best prepared me for earning my PE license was the Denison Turbine Rehab,” he explained. “This project encompassed scope items like raw water cooling, oil cooling, replacement and redesign of water and oil plumbing systems with pressures ranging from 60 psi to 1200 psi. The performance testing of the units, which required data from the head gates to the tailrace, was invaluable for studying mechanical thermal and fluid systems.”

Now equipped with his PE license, Cowan is focused on using his expertise to make meaningful contributions to the Expeditionary District’s mission. His work directly supports the delivery of critical infrastructure that enhances the security and quality of life for U.S. forces and their partners in the U.S. Central Command region.

“My role as a licensed PE will support the Army Corps of Engineers mission in the CENTCOM region by increasing my capabilities when aiding in contract reviews to ensure the design is adequate and meets the code requirements of the region,” he said. “Further, having this license will allow me to aid contractors in the field to find acceptable solutions to issues at hand that meet the contract and code. This will allow for quicker resolution of issues and ensure facilities are turned over to our warfighters in a timelier manner.”

For Cowan, the satisfaction of solving engineering challenges goes beyond professional growth—it’s about embracing the opportunity to innovate and expand his skill set. Each new challenge sharpens his expertise and reinforces his dedication to the mission.

“An engineering problem that I’m excited to tackle is the implementation of fuel and plumbing systems for facility projects,” he said. “At my home district in Tulsa, I work in power generation, so working on commercial-style plumbing is outside of my wheelhouse. This experience will help increase my knowledge and capabilities.”

Cowan’s advice to aspiring engineers is rooted in his own experiences and lessons learned, offering guidance to those who hope to follow in his footsteps.

“My recommendation is to take the exam as soon as you are eligible,” he emphasized. “I waited until I had my years of experience, which increased the amount I needed to refresh and relearn. If your state allows you to take the exam earlier, you won’t be as pressured with life. I’ve known several people who studied while having young children, and the earlier you pass, the easier it will be.”

Beyond the technical and academic aspects of his role, Cowan finds inspiration in the Expeditionary District’s unique area of operations. For him, each day brings new opportunities to problem-solve and innovate in ways that directly impact the mission.

“The thing that excites me the most is the challenging environment we work in within the U.S. Central Command region,” he shared. “Every day is a new challenge with the contractors on how to meet the requirements of the contract. Sometimes this leads to variations, and other times it requires out-of-the-box thinking on solutions that meet the contract requirements. This environment fosters problem solving and keeps you engaged.”

As a mechanical engineer, Cowan takes pride in knowing that his work not only advances mission readiness but also leaves a lasting impact on the infrastructure that supports those who serve.

“I see my work with USACE making an impact by directly improving the daily lives and capabilities of our warfighters,” he said. “Through the construction of housing, medical facilities, and other facilities, the mission capabilities in the CENTCOM region will be improved.”

The challenges and opportunities of working in such a demanding and dynamic region not only contribute to the immediate mission but also build expertise and broaden perspectives, skills that Cowan knows will prove invaluable when tackling future stateside projects.

“When I return to my home district and continue my work in hydropower, my work will impact the U.S. infrastructure by increasing power plant output and improving the reliability of our aging infrastructure.”

Cowan’s achievement is a testament to the dedication and expertise of USACE engineers who serve across the globe ensuring that USACE remains a trusted partner in delivering solutions that matter—to the warfighter, to our allies, and to the future of security in CENTCOM region. His story embodies the spirit of National Engineers Week, designing the future one project at a time.