Graduating Students Inducted to Order of the Engineer

On Tuesday, May 12, 135 Tufts engineering students took an oath, vowing to use their skills “for good” in the real world during the Order of the Engineer induction ceremony.  

Order of the Engineer was first initiated in the United States in 1970 to “foster a spirit of pride and responsibility” in the engineering profession, creating an organization of shared purpose and ethical commitment. 

The ceremony began with opening remarks from Roch Larochelle, a civil engineer with decades of experience in engineering consulting and management throughout New England. Larochelle was elected to the National Board of Governors for The Order of the Engineer in 2008 and served as National Chair from 2018 to 2020. In his remarks, Larochelle cautioned graduating students that throughout their engineering career, their decision-making will be challenged. He advised students that, in these moments, it’s crucial to remember who engineers serve: the public.  

Samuel Liggero, professor of the practice, and Brianna Bouchard, assistant teaching professor, presented the history of the order and the significance of the ring, explaining that the ring serves as a symbol of pride, prestige, honor, and professionalism among engineers, and as a reminder of engineers' obligation to society. Derek Mess, professor of the practice, Jennifer Stephan, dean of academic advising and undergraduate studies for engineering, and Andrew Ramsburg, dean of undergraduate education, also helped to facilitate the ceremony.

Students then read the “Obligation of an Engineer” oath, pledging their commitment to practice integrity and respect. As inducted members to the organization, they then placed their rings on their fingers.  

Congratulations to the newest members of the Order of the Engineer!  

Learn more about the Order of the Engineer.