When
January 08, 2026
Time
7:45am - 4:00pm EST
Contact Hours
8
Location Online - Course
This hybrid online class will combine both live instruction and independent online work that you will complete during the day. Independent work will include quizzes, readings, videos and short assignments. Access to a computer with a webcam (either a camera that is built into your laptop or one that connects via USB), a reliable internet connection and a workspace that is free from distraction and noise will set you up for success.
Description
This hybrid online class will combine both live instruction and independent online work that you will complete during the day. Independent work will include quizzes, readings, videos and short assignments. Access to a computer with a webcam (either a camera that is built into your laptop or one that connects via USB), a reliable internet connection and a workspace that is free from distraction and noise will set you up for success.
The study of professional ethics is more than simply a hypothetical exercise, it is the very foundation of engineering practice. Many practicing engineers in the United States swear an oath to uphold the “Obligation of an Engineer” upon completion of their degree. Among other things, the Obligation pledges integrity, respect, and honesty for the good of the public. This course will explore the history of professional ethics; the ethical canons upheld by national engineering societies; and the narrow line that separates legal and professional responsibilities.
Continue your personal and professional development with this course, which addresses the importance of holding paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public in the performance of your professional duties.
Agenda
AGENDA:
Module 1: What is Professional Ethics, and why should you care?
Module 2: The Canons of Engineering Ethics
Module 3: Liability Versus Professional Accountability
Module 4: A Study of Current Events
Instructor
Walter C. Catlett
Walt Catlett possesses over 25 years of experience in urban drainage and stormwater management, combined with over 30 years of safety experience from the concrete pipe industry, military, and consulting engineering. He is an effective trainer and educator responsible for the training of military personnel and public works professionals. He serves on Virginia’s Local Transportation Assistance Program (LTAP) Advisory Board. He also serves on the Arkansas Department of Transportation’s Research Advisory Council. He has a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University in College Station, TX and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle Barracks, PA. Mr. Catlett served in the United States Marine Corps and United States Army Reserves for a combined 30 years.
Who Should Attend
This course is intended for professionals within the engineering and construction industry with an interest in discussions on ethical responsibilities and decision-making for designers, inspectors, and contractors. It is also designed to provide 1 Professional Development Hour for Professional Engineers whose out-of-state licensure (i.e. MD, DE, NJ, etc) requires professional ethics training.
Registration and Payment
The following registration fees cover the session, all course materials and meals:
Local Government: $75.00
State/Federal: $125.00
Private Industry: $300.00
Click here for UVA TTA's general registration information, cancellation policy, and refund policy. UVA TTA accepts the following credit cards: American Express, VISA, MasterCard, and Discover. Credit card information cannot be taken over the phone. Alternatively, after registering you can print out a voucher to send in with your payment. After you have completed the transaction you will receive an automatically generated email confirming registration and payment if applicable. Final confirmation and instructions will be sent out during the week prior to the class date.
Special Registration Instructions for Employees of the Virginia Department of Transportation
VDOT employees must register through the VDOT Virtual Campus. Registration fees and related expenses for all VDOT employees will be paid from the VDOT Learning Services Center budget. Registrants should contact their District Training Coordinator or the VDOT Learning Services Center (Central Office employees) for instructions on how to seek reimbursement for travel expenses.
Due to current travel restrictions, VDOT employees are strongly encouraged to attend U. Va. TTA workshops on a day trip basis. Overnight travel requires permission from your District Administrator or Chief -- and in some cases higher levels of authority. If you require overnight lodging to attend a U. Va. TTA workshop, consult with your supervisor, District Training Coordinator, or VDOT Learning Services Center on travel approval procedures.